30-3-304. Use of arc, spark or open flame prohibited; exceptions; search for flame-producing devices; welding and cutting operations; nonpermissible electric lamps prohibited.
(a) All persons in underground workings of a mine are prohibited from intentionally creating any arc, spark or open flame, except those that cannot be avoided in the normal performance of work. Carrying smoking material or matches, or other flame-making devices into a mine or smoking underground is prohibited.
(b) Before entering the mine, employees shall be subject to search by the mine foreman or his certified designee for smoking materials or matches, or other flame-producing devices.
(c) In all underground mines welding and cutting with electricity or flame is restricted from places where flammable gases are present or where flammable gases may enter the air course except necessary welding and cutting in face regions. In the face regions of gassy mines, necessary welding and cutting in face regions shall be under the direct supervision of a qualified person, who shall test for gas before starting operations and frequently thereafter. Continuous monitoring devices may be used after the initial gas test has been made. In all welding and cutting operations, precautions shall be taken against starting a fire.
(d) All persons underground shall use only permissible electric lamps for portable illumination.