The operator of a mine shall provide and maintain, in safe condition for the purpose provided, two separate and distinct traveling ways from the interior workings of the mine, each of which shall be available to at least one opening to the surface. One of such traveling ways may be designated by such operator as the principal traveling way. One of such traveling ways shall be designated as the escapement way, which shall be properly marked, clearly showing the direction to the outside. This section does not prohibit such operator from designating more than one principal traveling way or more than one escapement way, so long as this section is complied with. This section does not modify or change section 1563.17 of the Revised Code as to the making of break-throughs.

Except as provided in section 1563.14 of the Revised Code, at least two separate and distinct travelable passageways which are maintained to insure passage at all times of any person, including disabled persons, and which passageways are to be designated as escapeways. At least one escapeway ventilated with intake air shall be provided from each working section continuous to the surface escape drift openings or slope facilities to the surface. Such escapeways shall have man doors located throughout their length at distances not exceeding five hundred feet.

Except in situations where the height of the coal bed is less than five feet, escapeways shall be maintained at a height of at least five feet, excluding necessary roof support, and the travelway in each escapeway shall be maintained at a width of at least six feet. Where the height of the coal bed is less than five feet, the escapeway shall be maintained to the height of the coal bed, excluding any necessary roof support, and the travelway in such escapeways shall be maintained at a width of at least six feet.

Escapeways shall be maintained in a safe condition and the way of escape properly marked.

Updated maps of the escapeways shall be maintained on each working section.

No operator of a mine shall refuse or neglect to comply with this section.

Effective Date: 10-29-1995.