Title 48 W. Va. C.S.R.

Miner Training, Education And Certification Miner Training, Education And Certification

Series 04 Initial Training Program for Prospective Mine Rescue Team Members and Additional Mine Rescue Requirements

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-1 General

1.1. Scope. -- Rule governing the initial training program for prospective mine rescue team members in the state of West Virginia.

1.2. Authority. -- W. Va. Code 22A-6-4 and 22A-6-5.

1.3. Filing Date. -- December 11, 2023.

1.4. Effective Date. -- January 10, 2024.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-2 Criteria for the Initial Mine Rescue Team Member Training Program for Prospective Mine Rescue Team Members in West Virginia

2.1. Physical Requirements. 2.1.1 Any person making application to participate in initial mine rescue training shall have had an examination by a physician, who shall certify that such applicant is physically fit to perform mine rescue and recovery work while wearing a self-contained oxygen breathing apparatus. The physical examination shall be completed within thirty (30) days prior to scheduled initial training. A team member requiring corrective eyeglasses will not be disqualified provided the eyeglasses can be worn securely within an approved facepiece.

2.1.2. A physician shall fill out a West Virginia Office of Miners Health Safety and Training physical form, and such form shall be presented to the mine rescue training instructor not less than five (5) days prior to scheduled initial training. These forms shall be kept on file at the mine rescue station for a period of one (1) year. In determining whether a miner is physically capable of performing mine rescue duties, the physician shall take the following conditions into consideration:

2.1.2.a. Seizure disorder;

2.1.2.b. Perforated eardrum;

2.1.2.c. Hearing loss without a hearing aid greater than 40 decibels at 400, 1000, and 2000 Hz;

2.1.2.d. Repeated blood pressure reading (controlled or uncontrolled by medication) which exceeds 160 systolic, or 100 diastolic, or which is less than 105 systolic, or 60 diastolic;

2.1.2.e. Distant visual acuity (without glasses) less than 20/50 Snellen scale in one eye, and 20/70 in the other;

2.1.2.f. Heart disease;

2.1.2.g. Hernia;

2.1.2.h. Absence of a limb or hand; or

2.1.2.i. Any other condition which the examining physician determines is relevant to the question of whether the miner is fit for rescue team service.

2.1.3. Each member of a mine rescue team shall be examined annually by a physician who shall certify that each person is physically fit to perform mine rescue and recovery work for prolonged periods under strenuous conditions.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-3 Experience Requirements

3.1. An applicant for initial mine rescue training shall have been employed underground for a total of one (1) year or more within the three (3) preceding years except that members of contract mine rescue teams shall have a minimum of three (3) years underground coal mine experience that shall have occurred within the ten (10) year period preceding their employment on the contract mine rescue team. For the purpose of mine rescue work only, miners who are employed on the surface but work regularly underground meet the experience requirement. The underground experience requirement is waived for those members of a mine rescue team on the effective date of this rule.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-4 Training Requirements

4.1. Each applicant for initial mine rescue training shall complete a thirty-two (32) hour course of instruction, as prescribed and approved by the Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety in Section 6.1. in the use, care, and maintenance of the type of apparatus that will be utilized.

4.1.1. Upon completion of the initial training, all team members shall receive at least ninety-six (96) hours of refresher training annually, which shall include participation in local mine rescue contests and training at the covered mine.

4.2. If the type of apparatus is changed, a mine rescue team member shall receive an additional eight (8) hours of training.

4.3. Each member of a mine rescue team shall have completed a West Virginia Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training approved first-aid course.

4.4. Each mine rescue team member shall train at intervals not exceeding thirty (30) calendar days. Each training session shall not be less than four (4) hours. Training shall include the wearing and use of the apparatuses by the mine rescue team members for a period of at least two (2) hours while under oxygen every two (2) months.

4.4.1. Sessions underground at least once each six (6) months;

4.4.2. Where applicable, the use, care, capabilities, and limitations of auxiliary mine rescue equipment, or a different breathing apparatus;

4.4.3. Advanced mine rescue training and procedures, as prescribed by the Director;

4.4.4. Mine map training and ventilation procedures; and

4.4.5. The wearing of mine rescue apparatus while in smoke, simulated smoke, or an equivalent environment at least once during each twelve (12) month period.

4.5. A mine rescue team member who is absent from more than two (2) of the four (4) hour training sessions in one (1) year shall be replaced unless additional training is received to make up for the time missed. Except that in an event of illness or injury, time extensions shall be permitted as established by the Director.

4.6. A record of training of each team member shall be on file at such locations where the apparatuses are stored.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-5 Mine Rescue Instructor Requirements

5.1. Must have been a mine rescue team member for at least two (2) years or received special training approved by the Director.

5.2. Must have at least three (3) years underground mining experience or received special training approved by the Director.

5.3. Must be thoroughly trained with the use and care of all types of detection instruments and apparatuses to be used by the team.

5.4. Must demonstrate to the Director or his/her representative that he/she is qualified to serve as an instructor.

5.5. Instructors for initial training of mine rescue team members shall be approved by the Director. Previously approved instructors need not be re-designated to teach the approved courses as long as they have taught those courses within the twenty-four (24) months prior to the effective date of this rule.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-6 Course Outline of the Initial Training Program for Mine Rescue Team Members

6.1. This course outline is sequenced for thirty-two (32) hours of student-instructor contact.

6.1.1. First session:

6.1.1.a. 4 hours - Introduction, and lecture in use, care and maintenance of apparatus

6.1.1.b. 1 hour - Charging, testing, and readying the apparatus to wear

6.1.1.c. 1 hour - Wearing apparatus (walking, no manual labor)

6.1.1.d. 1/2 hour - Removing and putting apparatus away

6.1.1.e. 1 hour - Lecture in mine rescue procedures

6.1.2. Second Session:

6.1.2.a. 4 hours - Lecture in use, care and maintenance of apparatus and question and answer period

6.1.2.b. 1/2 hour - Testing apparatus for use

6.1.2.c. 1 1/2 hours - Wearing apparatus (performing strenuous work)

6.1.2.d. 1 1/2 hours - Cleaning apparatus

6.1.3. Third Session:

6.1.3.a. 1 hour - Question and answer period

6.1.3.b. 1/2 hour - Readying apparatus for use

6.1.3.c. 1 1/2 hours - Wearing apparatus (performing strenuous work)

6.1.3.d. 1 hour - Care and cleaning of apparatus

6.1.3.e. 4 hours - Mine rescue procedures

6.1.4. Fourth Session:

6.1.4.a. 1 hour - Question and answer period

6.1.4.b. 1/2 hour - Recharging and testing apparatus for use

6.1.4.c. 1 1/2 hours - Wearing apparatus (performing strenuous work and working in smoke room wearing apparatus)

6.1.4.d. 1 hour - Care and cleaning apparatus

6.1.4.e. 4 hours - Procedure and examination - testing shall determine if student knows how to cope with malfunctions which he/she could possibly be confronted with during rescue work

6.14.f. 1 hour - Discussion of procedures for removal of individuals in a mine shelter

6.2. At the completion of the thirty-two (32) hour training in mine rescue and mine rescue procedures, the student shall reveal by examination that he/she is capable of, or had knowledge of, caring and cleaning apparatus, recharging oxygen cylinders, properly washing face pieces, wearing apparatus, working bypass, use and operation of oxygen pump, use and operation of cascade system, and properly trained in testing the high pressure and low pressure of the breathing apparatus.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-7 Alternate Approved Training Program

7.1. An operator electing to develop an alternate training program must obtain approval of its program from the Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety.

7.2. Any operator not using the training course guidelines established by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training and seeks approval of its training program shall submit such program to the Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety for approval.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-8 Certification

8.1. Upon completion of the thirty-two (32) hour training program, a mine rescue certification certificate will be issued to such a person who has demonstrated by examination his/her competency and qualifications.

8.2. A mine rescue certification certificate may also be issued to a person with prior mine rescue experience in another state who has demonstrated by examination his/her competency and qualifications and meets all the following requirements:

8.2.1. Has three (3) years of underground mining experience within the last ten (10) years of employment.

8.2.2. Has a minimum of one (1) year experience within the last two (2) years being a member on a mine rescue team as defined in 30 CFR Part 49.

8.2.3. Receives eight (8) hours of training on the type of apparatus he/she would be using and mine rescue procedures from a West Virginia certified mine rescue instructor.

8.2.4. Receives and passes a physical examination as required in Subsection 2.1.1. of this rule. The physical examination shall be completed within thirty (30) days prior to demonstrating by examination his/her competency and qualifications.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-9 Requirements for all Coal Mines

9.1. Each operator of an underground mine who provides rescue teams under this Section shall send the Director a statement describing the mines method of compliance with this Section. The statement shall disclose whether the operator has independently provided mine rescue teams or entered into an agreement for the services of mine rescue teams. The name of the provider and the location of the services shall be included in the statement. A copy of the statement shall be posted at the mine for the miners information. Where a miners representative has been designated, the operator shall also provide the representative with a copy of the statement within thirty (30) days.

9.2. The operator of each underground coal mine shall make available two (2) certified mine rescue teams whose members:

9.2.1. Are familiar with the operations of the mine, and

9.2.2. Participate at least annually in two (2) local mine rescue contests as defined in Section 15.1. of this rule and one (1) Mine Emergency Response Development (MERD) drill as defined in Section 15.2. of this rule.

9.3. Team members shall meet the following:

9.3.1. Mine-site team. Members who work at the mine and participate in mine rescue training at the mine at least annually.

9.3.2. Composite team. A mine rescue team that covers multiple mines and whose members:

9.3.2.a. Include at least two (2) members from each covered large mine and at least one (1) member from each covered small mine,

9.3.2.b. Are knowledgeable about the operations and ventilation of each covered underground coal mine, and

9.3.2.c. Participate in mine rescue training at each covered mine at least semi-annually.

9.3.3. Contract team. A mine rescue team that is provided by an arrangement with another coal mine or with a third party and whose members:

9.3.3.a. Are knowledgeable about the operations and ventilation of each covered underground coal mine, and

9.3.3.b. Participate in mine rescue training at each covered large mine at least quarterly and at each covered small mine at least semi-annually.

9.4. For the purpose of mine rescue team membership, a member employed by an operator of multiple mines is considered to be an employee of each mine at which the member regularly works.

9.5. For the purpose of mine rescue team training at each covered mine, a portion of the training must be conducted underground.

9.6. No mine served by a mine rescue team shall be located more than one (1) hour ground travel time from the mine rescue station with which the rescue team is associated.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-10 Requirements for all Small Coal Mines

10.1. At mines with thirty-six (36) or fewer underground employees, mine rescue team members shall be knowledgeable about the operations and ventilation of each covered mine. For those mines who do not choose to have an individual mine-site team, individual miners at said underground mines shall receive hands-on training in the use of a fire extinguisher and a charged fire hose on live fires. Such training will be approved by the Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety and will be conducted every two (2) years after the first occurrence.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-11 Requirements for Large Coal Mines

11.1. At mines with more than thirty-six (36) underground employees, one (1) of the two (2) certified mine rescue teams shall be an individual mine-site team or a composite team. For those mines who do not choose to have an individual mine-site team, individual miners at said underground coal mines shall receive hands-on training in the use of a fire extinguisher and a charged fire hose on live fires. Said training shall be approved by the Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety and will be done every two (2) years after the first occurrence.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-12 Certification of Coal Mine Rescue Teams

12.1. For each mine rescue team designated to provide mine rescue coverage at an underground coal mine, the mine operator shall send the Director an annual statement certifying that each team meets the requirements of this Section as listed in Table 48-4-A and Table 48-4-B at the end of this rule.

12.2. The operator shall notify the Director within sixty (60) days of any change in team membership.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-13 Other Individuals in Mine Rescue Operations

13.1. Those individuals and organizations who are directing or performing tasks relating to mine rescue or recovery operations shall be considered a duly qualified emergency service worker as defined in W. Va. Code 15-5-11.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-14 Additional Mine Rescue Equipment

14.1. An oxygen resuscitator to revive or help survivors breathe during rescue operations following mine fires or explosions shall be provided at the mine rescue station for use by the mine rescue team. Said resuscitator shall be rated for a minimum of sixty (60) minutes.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-4-15 Requirements for a Local Mine Rescue Contest

15.1. A local mine rescue contest is one that:

15.1.1. Is conducted in the United States;

15.1.2. Uses MSHA-recognized rules;

15.1.3. Has a minimum of three (3) mine rescue teams competing;

15.1.4. Has one (1) or more problems conducted on one (1) or more days with a determined winner;

15.1.5. Includes team members who:

15.1.5.a. Have the necessary equipment to participate in a simulated mine rescue team exercise,

15.1.5.b. Participate in a simulated mine rescue team exercise while being timed and observed by trained judges who evaluate the performance of each team and provide written feedback,

15.1.5.c. Wear oxygen breathing apparatus while participating in a simulated mine rescue team exercise; and

15.1.6. Includes contest judges who have completed annual training for mine rescue contest judges.

15.2. A local mine rescue contest is training that provides an objective evaluation of demonstrated mine rescue team skills and can be a Mine Emergency Response Development (MERD) exercise or a practical simulation exercise, such as a fire or explosion drill, where the team participates in simulated mine rescue team exercises and wears breathing apparatus.

15.3. Upon request from the Director, the operator shall provide information concerning each designated teams schedule of participation in upcoming local mine rescue contests.

Table 48-4-A. -- Initial Criteria to Certify the Qualifications of Mine Rescue Teams Qualification Criteria (30 CFR)

(1) Team is available at all times when miners are underground. 49.12(a); 49.12(g)

(2) Except where alternative compliance is permitted, team has five members and one alternate. 49.12(b)

(3) Members have experience working in an underground coal mine. 49.12(c)

(4) Team is available within 1-hour ground travel time from the mine rescue station to the mine. 49.12(f)

(5) Appropriate mine rescue equipment is provided, inspected, tested, and maintained. 49.16 (6) Members are physically fit. 49.17 (7) Members have completed initial training. 49.18(a)

Table 48-4-B. -- Annual Criteria to Maintain Mine Rescue Team Certification Qualification Criteria (30 CFR)

(1) Members are properly trained annually. 49.18(b)

(2) Members are familiar with the operations of each covered mine. 49.20(a)(1)

(3) Members participate in at least two local mine rescue contests annually. Judges certify results. 49.20(a)(2)

(4) Members participate in mine rescue training at each covered mine. 49.20(b)(1); 49.20(b)(2)(iii); 49.20(b)(3)(ii); 49.20(b)(4)

(5) Members are knowledgeable about the operations and ventilation of each covered mine. 49.20(b)(2)(ii); 49.20(b)(3)(i); 49.30

Series 07 Rules and Regulations Governing the Standards for Certification of Coal Mine Electricians

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-1 General

1.1. Scope. -- This legislative rule establishes standards for certification of persons performing electrical work in coal mines.

1.2. Authority. -- W. Va. Code §22A-7-6.

1.3. Filing Date. -- May 10, 2013.

1.4. Effective Date. -- May 13, 2013.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-2 Definitions

2.1. Electrical work -- The term "electrical work" means work consisting primarily of electrical construction, installation, testing, inspection, maintenance and repair tasks on electrical coal mining equipment, apparatus, circuits, and/or distribution circuits used in or around a coal mine.

2.1.1. Listed below are examples of work that are required to be performed by a certified electrician or apprentice electrician, under the supervision required by Section 4.1(d) of this rule:

2.1.1.a. Locating faults in cables;

2.1.1.b. Installation of couplers on the end of cables;

2.1.1.c. Repair of electric components of electrically powered portable, mobile or stationary equipment;

2.1.1.d. Installation of electric wiring (excluding mine trolley wire);

2.1.1.e. Electrical maintenance of permissible equipment;

2.1.1.f. Any type of work performed inside transformers, power centers, rectifiers, switch boxes, switch houses, panels and other enclosures of electrical equipment or conductors; and

2.1.1.g. Electrical troubleshooting and testing.

2.1.2. Listed below are examples of work that are not required to be performed by a certified electrician or apprentice electrician:

2.1.2.a. Operation of electric equipment;

2.1.2.b. Normal operation of control switches, switch boxes, or circuit breakers: Provided that no energized parts or conductors are exposed;

2.1.2.c. Operation of cutout switches in trolley circuits;

2.1.2.d. Hanging or removing fuse nips on or from trolley wires;

2.1.2.e. Changing bits;

2.1.2.f. Lubrication;

2.1.2.g. Handling energized trailing cables;

2.1.2.h. Inserting low and medium-voltage cable couplers from receptacles;

2.1.2.i. Transportation of electric equipment and cables;

2.1.2.j. Mechanical repairs on electrically powered equipment: Provided that no energized parts or conductors are exposed;

2.1.2.k. Installation and repair of equipment and circuits in which shock hazards do not exist (having a normal rating of 40 volts or less when energized): Provided that such equipment is not required to be permissible;

2.1.2.l. Installation, repair and guarding of trolley feeder wires when de-energized;

2.1.2.m. Re-insulating or taping cables when no conductors or bare wires are exposed; and,

2.1.2.n. Replacing blown fuses on trolley poles and nips.

2.2. Work Area -- The term "work area" means the area in a mine within five-hundred (500) feet in any direction of the area in a mine where electrical work is being performed.

2.3. Certified Electrician -- The term "certified electrician" means any person who is:

2.3.1. qualified as a mine electrician, and who has passed an examination administered by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training and has satisfactorily completed a coal mine electrical training program approved by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training; or, any person who

2.3.2. has at least three (3) years of experience performing electrical work in an underground coal mine, on the surface work areas of an underground coal mine, on a surface coal mine, in a non-coal mine, in the mine equipment manufacturing industry, or in any other industry using or manufacturing similar equipment, and who has passed a certification examination administered by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training; or

2.3.3. any person who is qualified as a mine electrician in any state that recognizes certified electricians licensed in West Virginia.

2.4. Direct Supervision -- The term "direct supervision" means the supervision of an apprentice electrician by a certified electrician in the work area where electrical work is being performed.

2.5. Immediate Supervision -- The term "immediate supervision" means the physical presence of a certified electrician with the apprentice electrician.

2.6. Certified Person -- The term "certified person" when used to designate the kind of person to whom the performance of duty in connection with the operation of a mine shall be assigned, means a person who is qualified under the provisions of the law to perform such duty. (Refer to W. Va. Code §22A-1-2(d)(3)).

2.7. Qualified Person -- The term "qualified person" means a person who has completed an examination and is considered qualified on record by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training. (Refer to W. Va. Code §22A-1-2(d)(6)).

2.8. Approved -- The term "approved" means in strict compliance with mining law, or in the absence of law, accepted by a recognized standardizing body or organization whose approval is generally recognized as authoritative on the subject. (Refer to W. Va. Code §22A-1-2(a)(3)).

2.9. Apprentice Electrician -- The term "apprentice electrician" means an individual who is the holder of an apprentice electrician's card, and is in training to perform maintenance work on electrical circuits or electrically operated equipment.

2.10. Certification Examinations -- The term "certification examinations" means the examinations in specific categories within these regulations which have been approved by the Board of Miner Training, Education, and Certification, and which are administered by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-3 Classifications of Electrical Certification

3.1. Classifications of Certification -- After the effective date of this rule, electrical certification shall be issued only for low, medium and high voltage.

Apprentice electricians may become certified electricians by the methods of certification as provided in Section 4 of this rule.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-4 Qualifications

4.1. Apprentice Electrician. A person becoming an apprentice electrician shall be issued an apprentice electrician's card by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training upon verification by the employer who verifies that the person has attended an eight (8) hour classroom training course in the hazards of electricity, has been issued an experienced miner card, and is to be trained in accordance with this rule or an alternative electrical training program established and approved pursuant to 48-8-8.3, for the next twelve (12) months. Electrical contractors, employees of preparation plants and employees working on the surface areas which do not require a miners certification may become an apprentice electrician provided they are enrolled in an approved electrical training program for a twelve (12) month period or in an alternative apprentice electrical program as set forth in 48-8-8.1. After becoming a certified electrician, if he or she obtains employment in a job that requires an underground miner or surface miner certificate he or she must perform electrical work under the direct supervision of a person who is a certified electrician and is also a certified miner. A written record shall be kept at the work site reflecting the electrical work performed. After the employee has obtained ninety six (96) hours in the related electrical work, worked at least six (6) months and one hundred eight (108) shifts, and successfully passed the miners certification test then he or she would be qualified to perform duties as an unsupervised certified electrician.

4.1.1. During the twelve (12) month training period the apprentice electrician shall complete an approved forty (40) hour classroom training program comprised of the following subjects:

4.1.1.a. State and Federal mining laws which apply to electricity;

4.1.1.b. Permissibility;

4.1.1.c. AC and DC theory;

4.1.1.d. Basic electricity;

4.1.1.e. Schematic reading;

4.1.1.f. Gas detection and fire prevention; and,

4.1.1.g. National Electric Code.

4.1.2. Twenty percent (20%) of the twelve (12) month training shall be involved directly with electrical work.

4.1.3. All of the apprentice electricians training experience shall be logged and kept by the operator with the supervising certified electrician and the apprentice both validating the experience by signatures and certification numbers. Log sheets used for recording the required experience must be on a form approved by the Director of the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training. Records verifying an apprentice's electrical experience shall be presented prior to testing for electrical certification.

4.1.4. All energized electrical work performed by an apprentice electrician shall be done under the immediate supervision of a certified electrician. All other electrical work performed by an apprentice electrician shall be done under the direct supervision of a certified electrician. All work to be performed by the apprentice electrician shall be examined by a certified electrician prior to any work being performed, and again prior to the circuits or equipment being energized and returned to service.

4.2. Electrician (Low, medium and high voltage). A person may become certified as a low, medium, and high voltage electrician when the person has at least twelve (12) months of experience in performing electrical work as an apprentice electrician, has worked with low, medium, and high voltage, (at least twenty percent (20%) of the required electrical experience during the twelve (12) month training program shall be directly related to high voltage) and has satisfactorily passed the electrical certification examination. The low, medium and high voltage certified electrician is permitted to perform all types of electrical work at any mining operation.

4.3. If an apprentice electrician is unable to obtain the experience that is directly related to high voltage due to the lack of high voltage equipment that is available, the apprentice may at the discretion of the Director complete a high voltage training program prescribed by the Board of Miner Training Education and Certification and approved by the Director of the WV Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training.

4.4. Degree in Electrical Engineering. A person who has a Bachelor's Degree or Associate Degree in electrical engineering from an accredited college or university, and has at least six (6) months of experience in performing electrical work under the supervision of a certified electrician may be permitted to become certified as an electrician when the person has satisfactorily passed the electrician certification examination.

4.5. Electrical Training Programs Already in Effect. All persons training to become certified electricians prior to the effective date of this rule, shall be allowed to continue training and shall become certified as an electrician after the completion of one (1) year experience in performing electrical work under the supervision of a certified electrician and after successful passage (at least eighty (80%) percent score) of the certification examination. Experience log sheets verifying electrical work performed prior to the effective date of this rule shall be accepted so long as they comply with the requirements of the prior rule. However, all electrical work performed on or after the effective date of this rule, shall be verified on log sheets that comply with the requirements of this rule. Any person who begins training to become a certified electrician on or after the effective date of these rules, shall comply with the applicable provisions of this rule.

4.6. Prior Certification. All valid electrical certifications issued by the Department of Mines or the Department of Energy prior to the effective date of this rule shall remain valid.

Any person holding a prior certification and wishing to be certified in another category must:

4.6.1. document his experience;

4.6.2. successfully pass any other portion of the electrical certification examination not previously taken for low, medium, and high voltage as required in Section 5 this rule; and,

4.6.3. successfully pass the hands-on (skill) portion of the electrical certification examination.

4.7. Similar Experience. A person who has at least three (3) years of experience in performing electrical work in an underground coal mine, on the surface work areas of an underground coal mine, on a surface coal mine, in a non-coal mine, in the mine equipment manufacturing industry, or in any other industry using or manufacturing similar equipment may file an application and challenge the electrical certification test to become a certified electrician. If the experience is properly documented and approved by the Director or his authorized representative then the applicant may test to become a certified electrician.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-5 Examinations

5.1. Electrician examination for low, medium, and high voltage. Examinations for low, medium, and high voltage electrician certification shall consist of eight (8) parts:

5.1.1. Direct current theory and application;

5.1.2. Alternating current theory and application;

5.1.3. Electric equipment and circuits;

5.1.4. Permissibility of electric equipment;

5.1.5. Legal requirements -- State and Federal laws;

5.1.6. National Electric Code;

5.1.7. Dangers of high voltage; and

5.1.8. Hands-on (skill).

5.2. In order to pass the electrical certification examination, the applicant must score at least eighty percent (80%) in parts (a) through (g), and must pass part (h). The hands-on (skill) part (h), is graded on a pass/fail basis.

5.3. An applicant who fails to pass the examination must reapply to take the examination within thirty (30) days after notification of a failing score. An applicant who fails the examination two (2) times must receive at least forty (40) hours of additional classroom training as provided in Section 4.1(a) of these rules prior to retaking the examination. An applicant who fails the examination the third time must repeat the twelve (12) month apprentice program as required in Section 4.1 of this rule.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-6 Certification Procedures

6.1. Application for certification. Prior to taking an examination for certification an individual must submit an application to the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training to take the examination. The application must be submitted to the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training within thirty (30) days of completion of the apprentice training program.

6.2. Upon receipt of an application for examination, the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training shall provide for the applicant to be examined at the next available examination, which is at least fifteen (15) days from receipt of the application, and shall inform the applicant of the time and place for examination. Within fifteen (15) days after the completion of the examination, the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training shall inform the applicant of his or her score.

6.3. Certification. Upon determination that an applicant for certification has satisfactorily passed the examination for certification, and has presented proper documented electrical experience, the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training shall promptly issue the electrical certification to the applicant.

Effect of certification. Except where otherwise provided in this rule, no person may perform electrical work:

6.3.1. until such person has become a certified electrician to perform such work; or,

6.3.2. unless such work is performed by an apprentice electrician under the direct supervision or immediate supervision of a certified electrician; or,

6.3.3. unless such work is performed on circuits of forty (40) volts or less.

6.4. This provision does not prohibit a person already being trained prior to the effective date of these rules, to continue to perform electrical work under the direct supervision of a certified electrician until he has met the experience requirements.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-7 Exceptions

7.1. Mining equipment manufacturer's service representatives are not required to be certified as mine electricians or apprentice electricians in order to perform work on equipment which is manufactured or serviced by the company they are representing. Such individuals are considered to be persons trained to perform electrical work and to maintain electrical equipment. When work is performed by manufacturer's service representatives who are not a certified electrician or an apprentice electrician, such work shall be performed under the direct supervision of a certified electrician and the completed work is to be examined by a certified electrician before the machine or equipment is placed in service.

7.2. Certification from other States. Any person holding a mine electrician certification issued by any other state may act in the capacity of electrician until the next available electrical certification examination is held by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training, but for a period not to exceed a maximum of ninety (90) days.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-8 Criteria for Apprentice Electrical Training Program

8.1. Apprentice electrician card. An apprentice electrician card shall be issued by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training when applied for by the miner, with a statement from the mine operator stating that the applicant has attended an eight (8) hour classroom training course in the hazards of electricity, has been issued an experienced miner card, and will be in an approved electrical training program or in an alternative electrician training program established and approved pursuant to Section 8.3., for the next twelve (12) months. The apprentice electrician card will be issued for eighteen (18) months and may be extended for valid reasons by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training.

8.2. Approved electrical training program. A minimum of forty (40) hours of classroom training is required, and shall cover the following subjects:

8.2.1. State and Federal laws which apply to electricity;

8.2.2. Permissibility;

8.2.3. AC and DC theory;

8.2.4. Basic electricity;

8.2.5. Schematic reading;

8.2.6. Gas detection.

The twelve (12) month training program shall include electrical and mechanically related work, with twenty percent (20%) of the twelve (12) months being involved directly with electrical work. The apprentice must attend at least eighty percent (80%) of all regularly scheduled days during the twelve (12) month training program.

8.3. Criteria and standards for alternative electrical training programs must be adopted by unanimous approval of the Director and the Board of Miner Training, Education and Certification. An alternative electrical training program will not become effective until approved by the Secretary of State as an emergency rule or by the Legislature as an amendment to this rule.

8.4. Failure to complete apprentice training. If for valid reasons accepted by the Director, an apprentice electrician is unable to complete the twelve (12) month apprentice training program within twelve (12) consecutive months, the Director may permit the individual a time extension to complete the required training: Provided, that the time period extension may not exceed two (2) years.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-7-9 Annual Training

9.1. Electrical refresher training. In order to maintain electrical certification, an individual must complete annually an approved eight (8) hour refresher course. The course shall include but not be limited to permissibility, state and federal law, safety in job performance and training on equipment applicable to the card holders' work.

9.2. Failure to maintain electrical certification. An individual who fails to attend the required annual refresher training is required to retake the electrical certification examination and the hands-on (skill) portion of the examination. Upon scoring at least eighty percent (80%) on each subject of the initial examination, and successful passage of the hands-on portion of the examination, the individual will be issued a new electrical certification card.

9.3. This provision will not apply to an individual who was unable to take the annual electrical refresher training for valid reasons accepted by the Director. The individual must, however, complete eight (8) hours of refresher training within ninety (90) days after returning to work.

48CSR7

Series 08 Rules Governing The Criteria And Standards For Alternative Training Programs For Apprentice Coal Mine Electricians

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-1 General

1.1. Scope. -- This rule establishes criteria and standards for programs, serving as an alternative to the traditional program established in the Rules and Regulations Governing the Standards for Certification of Coal Mine Electricians, 48CSR7, for the training of apprentices to become Certified Coal Mine Electricians. This rule is only intended to regulate the structure and content of an alternative training program and it does not alter or affect any other requirement for the certification of coal mine electricians.

1.2. Authority. -- W. Va. Code §§22A-7-5 and 22A-7-6.

1.3. Filing Date. -- April 3, 2008.

1.4. Effective Date. -- April 3, 2008.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-2 Definitions

2.1. Alternative Training Program -- For the purpose of this rule, the term alternative training program refers to a program of instruction, practical exercises and supervised, hands-on electrical work that is intended as an alternative to the traditional twelve-month program provided in the Boards Rules and Regulations Governing the Standards for Certification of Coal Mine Electricians, 48CSR7.

2.2. Apprentice Electrician -- The term "apprentice electrician" means an individual who is the holder of an apprentice electrician's card, and is in training to perform maintenance work on electrical circuits or electrically operated equipment.

2.3. Approved -- The term "approved" means in strict compliance with mining law, or in the absence of law, accepted by a recognized standardizing body or organization whose approval is generally recognized as authoritative on the subject. (Refer to W. Va. Code §22A-1-2(3)).

2.4. Certification Examinations -- The term "certification examinations" means the examinations in specific categories within these regulations which have been approved by the Board of Miner Training, Education, and Certification, and which are administered by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training.

2.5. Certified Electrician -- The term "certified electrician" means any person who is:

(a) qualified as a mine electrician, and who has passed an examination administered by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training and has satisfactorily completed a coal mine electrical training program approved by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training; or, any person who (b) has at least three (3) years of experience in performing electrical work underground in a coal mine, in the surface work areas of an underground coal mine, in a surface coal mine, in a noncoal mine, in the mine equipment manufacturing industry, or in any other industry using or manufacturing similar equipment, and who has passed a certification examination administered by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training; or (c) any person who is qualified as a mine electrician in any state that recognizes certified electricians licensed in West Virginia.

2.7. Direct Supervision -- The term "direct supervision" means the supervision of an apprentice electrician by a certified electrician in the work area where electrical work is being performed.

2.8. Electrical work -- The term "electrical work" means work consisting primarily of electrical construction, installation, testing, inspection, maintenance and repair tasks on electrical coal mining equipment, apparatus, circuits, and/or distribution circuits used in or around a coal mine.

2.9. High Voltage -- The term "high voltage means voltages of more than one thousand volts.

2.10. Immediate Supervision -- The term "immediate supervision" means the physical presence of a certified electrician with the apprentice electrician.

2.11. Low Voltage -- The term low voltage means up to and including six hundred sixty volts.

2.12. Medium Voltage -- The term medium voltage means voltages from six hundred sixty one to one thousand volts.

2.13. Qualified Person-Electrician Alternative Program -- The term qualified person-electrician-alternative program means a person who has completed all of the educational and testing requirements established by the Board of Miner Training, Education, and Certification pursuant to 48 CSR Series 8.

2.14. Traditional Training Program The term traditional training program refers to the standard, certified electrician training program established by the Board of Miner Training, Education, and Certification pursuant to 48 CSR 7, 4.1 and 8.2.

2.15. Work Area -- The term "work area" means within five-hundred (500) feet in any direction of the area in a mine where electrical work is being performed.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-3 Requirement for Board Approval

3.1. In lieu of training under the traditional training program established under Rules and Regulations Governing the Standards for Certification of Coal Mine Electricians, 48CSR7, the Board of Miner Training, Education and Certification may accept apprentice training through programs that meet the criteria and standards of this rule. No alternative training program shall be accepted as a basis for performing unsupervised electrical work in a mine unless it complies with the provisions of this rule.

3.2. A person becoming an apprentice electrician shall first possess an experienced miner card (certified miner card). Exceptions to this requirement are found in 48 CSR 8-7.1 et seq.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-4 Initial Training

4.1. Each apprentice electrician shall complete an initial 8-hour electrical hazards class. Upon completion of the class, the instructor shall submit required documentation to the West Virginia Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training for issuance of apprentice electrician cards. The class shall include but not be limited to:

(a) Lockout and tag procedures -- apprentice electrician shall receive a lock, tag and multi-hole lockout device.;

(b) Electrical hazards identification -- apprentice electrician shall receive a 1000VAC rated voltage detector;

(d) Voltage effects on the human body;

(e) High voltage power systems;

(f) Electric arc welding safety;

(g) PPE - Personnel Protective Equipment; and (h) Fatal electrical accidents.

4.2. Once the initial training is completed, the apprentice electrician will begin a formal training class. Each apprentice electrician shall be offered 360 total classroom and lab training hours as described in 48-8-6 of this rule. Each apprentice electrician shall be required to attend and document 90% of these hours for a minimum total of 324 hours. The training shall be conducted in a classroom and practical lab environment. All classroom and practical training shall be completed by a Mine Safety and Health Administration certified electrical instructor. All classroom and lab training shall be documented and cosigned by a West Virginia certified mine electrician, see appendix A. The training session shall be in progress for a minimum of six calendar months and shall not exceed nine calendar months. During the training period, the apprentice electrician shall document all hands-on practical electrical mine experience, both underground and in the lab. All electrical experience shall be cosigned by a West Virginia certified mine electrician. The apprentice electrician shall maintain a low/medium and high voltage experience log, see appendix B.

4.3. Electrical contractors, employees of preparation plants and employees working on the surface areas which do not require miner certification, may become certified as an apprentice electrician provided they are enrolled in an approved electrical training program for twelve (12) month period or in an alternative apprentice electrical program as set forth in 8.1. After completion of the approved twelve (12) month electrical training program, the apprentice may file an application and take the electrical certification test to become a certified electrician. After becoming a certified electrician if he or she seeks employment in an underground mine, which requires a miner certification and works in the capacity of an electrician, all work must be under the direct supervision of a certified electrician who is also a certified miner. A written record shall be kept at the mine site reflecting the work being performed. After the employee has obtained a valid miner certification, working at least six (6) months and one hundred and eight (108) shifts, he or she would be qualified to perform the duties as a certified electrician unsupervised.

4.4. The apprentice electrician shall:

(a) Work at an underground mine, surface mine or preparation plant. The apprentice electrician shall complete and log a minimum of 277 electrical experience hours with 56 hours of this to be high voltage. The mine electrical experience shall be on low, medium, and high voltage mine systems that he or she has worked on both at the mine site or in the practical hands on labs. All electrical work experience shall be logged as required in 48CSR7-4.

(b) 20% of the 56 hours of high voltage electrical training shall be hands-on training.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-5 Certified Electrician Training Plan

5.1. During the first six months of the training program the apprentice electrician shall attend nine weeks of electrical class for a total of 360 electrical training hours. Of these 360 hours, normally 220 hours shall be classroom training, and at least 140 hours shall be of hands-on laboratory type training on mine electrical circuits. This hands-on laboratory type training shall be documented and countersigned by the certified electrical instructor who administered the training sessions. See Appendix A. The apprentice electrician shall also be working at the mine site as an apprentice electrician during the first six months of the training period. He or she shall perform a minimum of 40 hours of actual hands on electrical work at the mine site which shall be documented and countersigned by the certified electrician who supervised the work. See appendix B.

5.2. When the apprentice electrician is enrolled in an approved alternative electrical training program of at least 6 months and meets the requirements of the approved program, they may take the electrical test and be issued a qualified person-electrician card.

5.3. A qualified person-electrician can not perform the following duties without the direct supervision of a certified electrician. Duties which shall not be permitted by a qualified person-electrician include: troubleshooting high voltage circuits; repairing high voltage substations; energizing or de-energizing open mounted type high voltage disconnects; splicing high voltage cables; and testing and troubleshooting high voltage transformers, high voltage vacuum breakers and high voltage line splitters.

5.4. A qualified person-electrician is not permitted to perform the required monthly tests of high voltage circuit protective devices except under the direct supervision of a certified electrician. After twelve (12) months from the issue date of the electricians apprentice card, the qualified person-electrician may apply for an electrician certification card. This application shall be submitted on a document provided by the West Virginia Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training at which time an electrician certification card shall be issued.

5.5. During the six months period after receiving a Qualified Person Electrical Card, he or she shall perform a minimum of 97 hours of actual hands-on electrical work at the mine site which shall be documented and countersigned by the certified electrician who supervised the work. See appendix B. Upon completion of the required six month period and the completion of the required hands-on electrical experience, and a signed affidavit from mine management stating that he or she has accomplished the required work experience, he or she shall be issued a final Certified Electricians Certificate.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-6 Classroom and Lab Training Plan (360 hours, documented with cosigned log)

6.1. The apprentice electrician shall be instructed in all aspects of mining electricity, which shall include:

(a) State and Federal mining laws which apply to electricity (b) Permissibility (c) AC and DC Theory (d) Basic Electricity (e) Schematic Reading (f) Gas Detection and Fire Prevention (g) National Electric Code

6.2. In support of the above sections as well as additional material, the following material shall be covered in the classroom:

(a) Basic Electricity 1. Introduction 2. History of electricity 3. Dangers of Electricity a. Shocks and Burns b. Rubber gloves c. Removing a person from power d. Artificial Respiration 4. Lock-out and Tag-Out Procedures 5. Electrical Fundamentals 6. How is electricity produced -- Power Generation 7. Magnetism 8. Insulators and conductors 9. Electrical quantities and Ohms Law 10. Getting Electricity to the Mine 11. Getting electricity into the mine 12. Supplying power to the face area 13. Basic Trailing Cables 14. Basic Batteries 15. Basic Trolley and Track Systems (b) DC Theory and Application 1. DC Symbols a. Test and discussion 2. Ohms Law and discussion 3. Volt Ohm Meters a. Analog b. Digital c. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice d. Test on Meter Principals e. Test on Meter Readings 4. Ammeters a. Analog b. Digital c. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice d. Test on Meter Principals e. Test on Meter Readings 5. Meggers a. Analog b. Digital c. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice d. Test on Meter Principals e. Test on Meter Readings 6. Series and Parallel Circuits a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice b. Test and discussion 7. Batteries a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice b. Test and discussion 8. Basic DC Panel 9. Switches a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice b. Test and discussion 10. Contactor Assembly and Disassembly a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 11. Fuses a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice b. Test and discussion 12. Mercury Tubes a. Types and Operation b. Holding Circuits c. Timing Circuits d. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 13. Master Contactors a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 14. Resistors a. Series circuits b. Parallel circuits c. Combination circuits 15. Motor Starting Resistance a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 16. Cross the Line Contactors a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 17. Motor Overloads a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 18. Complete Schematic of Control Circuit a. Discussion, Demonstration 19. Complete Wiring of Control Circuit a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 20. Component Labeling Test a. Discussion, Demonstration 21. Troubleshooting Control Circuits a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 22. DC Motors a. Types -- Series, Shunt, and Compound b. Wiring c. Reversing d. Checking e. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 23. Troubleshooting Control and Motor Circuits a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 24. DC Motor Fundamentals Test 25. Solenoids 26. Cables a. Conductor b. Three Conductor c. Frame Grounding d. Discussion, Demonstration, and a Hands-on examination of different DC Cables e. Troubleshooting DC Cables f. Cable Test 27. Solid State Devices 28. Diode Systems a. Diodes b. Types of Diodes c. Testing d. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 29. Rectifiers a. Half Wave b. Full Wave 30. Diode Grounding Panel a. Discussion b. Wiring c. Troubleshooting d. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 31. Tests on DC Grounding Systems 32. Hands-On Wiring and Troubleshooting of DC Equipment a. Basic DC Panel with 3 Contactors, Resistance, and Series, Shunt, and Compound Motor b. Basic Grounding Diode Panel c. Basic DC Panel with Two-Pole Contactors, Resistance, and Motor d. Basic DC Panel with 4 contactors, Resistance, and motor e. Basic DC WV Test Panel f. DC Bolt Machine Panel g. Trolley Operated Jeep Panel h. SCR Drive Scoop Panel i. Drive Scoop Panel j. Transistor Drive Coal Hauler Panel k. SCR Drive Coal Hauler Panel l. Transistor Drive Coal Hauler Panel (c) AC Theory and Application 1. How AC electricity is generated 2. AC Electricity a. Single Phase b. Three Phase 3. AC Symbols a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Practice b. Test and discussion 4. Circuit Breakers 5. Transformers a. Simple b. Tapped c. Combination d. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice e. Transformer Test 6. Line Starters a. Tips b. Coils c. Auxiliary Relays d. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 7. Thermal Overloads a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 8. AC Motors a. Types -- Squirrel Cage and Wound Rotor Motors b. Wiring c. Reversing d. Testing e. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 9. Reading Schematic Drawings 10. Reading Wiring Drawings 11. Wiring of Motor and Control Circuits a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 12. Troubleshooting of Motor and Control Circuits a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 13. Silicon Controlled Rectifiers (SCRs)

a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 14. AC Fundamentals Test 15. AC Protection Devices 16. Circuit Breakers a. Breaker Short Circuit Adjustments b. Breaker Ampere Capacity c. Breaker Thermal Trip Units d. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 17. Receptacle and Plug Layout a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 18. Operation of Current Transformers a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 19. Operation of Ground Trip Devices a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice 20. Operation of Ground Check Devices a. Impedance type ground monitors b. Continuity type ground monitors c. Wireless type ground monitors d. Hands-on wiring and Troubleshooting of Ground Monitors 21. AC Power Simulator System a. Discussion, Demonstration, and Hands-on Practice b. Testing 22. Troubleshooting of Complete AC Power Supply Systems 23. Hands-On Wiring and Troubleshooting of AC Equipment a. Basic AC Training Panel 1 Linestarter, breaker, transformer, fuses, overloads, three phase motor b. Basic AC Training Panel 2 Linestarters, breaker, transformer, fuses, overloads, 2 three phase motors c. Two different Basic AC Panels for Prep Plant d. Basic AC WV Test Panel e. AC Bolt Machine f. Power Distribution Box g. Section Power Center h. Remote Control Continuous Miner with DC Tram i. Remote Control Continuous Miner with AC Tram j. Programmable Logic Controller Belt Starter Panel k. Programmable Logic Controller Prep Plant Panel l. Programmable Logic Controller Pump Panel m. CO Monitor System n. WV Test Panel for Power Center 24. Electrical Cables a. Types and Construction b. Splicing techniques c. Trouble-shooting Cables (1) With Ohmmeter (2) With Cable Thumper (d) High Voltage 1. High Voltage gloves 2. Hot sticks 3. Visible disconnects 4. Isolation transformers 5. Circuit breakers 6. Oil Breakers 7. Vacuum Breakers 8. Ground resistors 9. Ground monitors 10. Splicing high voltage cables 11. Lightning arrestors 12. Hands-On Wiring and Troubleshooting of High Voltage AC Equipment a. High Voltage Vacuum Breaker Panel b. WV High Voltage Relay Test Panel (e) Alternating Current Certification Test 1. Discussion and Practice 2. Test and discussion (f) Direct Current Certification Test 1. Discussion, Demonstration, and Practice 2. Test and discussion (g) Legal Requirements Certification Test 1. Review of Electrical Sections of Part 75 of the Federal Register 2. Discussion, Demonstration, and Practice 3. Test and discussion (h) Permissibility Certification Test 1. Review of Permissibility 2. Cover complete MSHA manual Permissibility: Electric Face Equipment (Safety Manual No. 16)

Review Permissibility Slides 4. Discussion, Demonstration, and Practice 5. Test and discussion (i) National Electrical Code Certification Test 1. Review Selected Sections of National Electrical Code 2. Discussion, Demonstration, and Practice 3. Test and discussion (j) High Voltage Systems Certification Test 1. Review of Electrical Sections WV Law and of Part 75 and 77 of the Federal Register 2. High Voltage Training Panel 3. Discussion, Demonstration, and Practice 4. Test and discussion (k) Circuits and Equipment Certification Test 1. Discussion and Practice 2. Test and discussion (l) Final Complete Electrical Exam (m) During the formal classes, the apprentice electrician shall complete other practical lab exercises that shall include but are not limited to the following:
Identifying electrical hazards 2. Trailing cable splices 3. Use of medium voltage rubber gloves and voltmeter 4. Installation of packing glands 5. Resealing a plane joint on an XP controller panel 6. Installing a cable coupler 7. Installing and testing a ground fault device 8. Installing and calibrating a ground monitor 9. Checking and changing brushes in a DC motor 10. Troubleshooting an DC motor 11. Troubleshooting an AC motor 12. Replacing a fuse in a pole mounted, high voltage cutout 13. Testing high voltage rubber gloves with air 14. Installing an AC plug 15. Reentering a trailing cable into a junction box 16. Replacing a tape switch on a roof bolter or scoop 17. Wiring a basic stop/start circuit to turn on a light with a relay 18. Adjusting the magnetic trip setting on a circuit breaker 19. Adding a new CO sensor to a CO system and calibrating 20. Troubleshooting a conveyor belt pull cord circuit 21. Proper use of an impulse generator (Thumper) for trailing cable troubleshooting 22. Calibrating a machine methane monitor system 23. Ground faulting a circuit breaker 24. Installation of machine trailing cables 25. Control wiring in a belt conveyor starter 26. Replacing the bulb in a permissible headlight 27. Proper adjustment of micro switches on direction tram contactors 28. Troubleshooting Continuous Miner with DC Tram 29. Troubleshooting a Continuous Miner with VFD Tram 30. Troubleshooting a Bolt Machine 31. Troubleshooting CO Monitor System 32. Troubleshooting an Programmable Logic Controller System (n) Other classes that are not electrical but shall be included in the training plan are:
Hand and Power Tools a. The student shall attend 4 hours of Basic hand and power tool safety 2. Welding & Cutting Systems a. The student shall attend 76 hours of Basic Cutting And Welding Safety 3. Principals of Hydraulics a. The student shall attend 40 hours of Basic Hydraulic Principals and Safety

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-7 Exceptions

7.1. Mining equipment manufacturers service representatives, electrical contractors, employees of preparation plants and employees working on the surface area at underground mines, which does not require a miners certificate, may receive an apprentice electrician card in the following manner:

(a) Be enrolled in an approved electrical training program for twelve (12) months, or;

(b) Be enrolled in an approved alternative apprentice electrical program set forth in 48 CSR Series 8, and;

(c) Eight (8) hours of classroom training in the hazards of electricity and his or her employer must submit a request in writing to the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training that an apprentice electrician card be issued.

7.2. All electrical work performed by the apprentice electrician must be under the direct supervision of a certified electrician. A log must be kept at the job site describing the work which was performed. The log must be dated and signed by both the apprentice electrician and the certified electrician observing the work performed.

7.3. After completing the approved (12) month electrical training program the apprentice may file an application and challenge the electrical certification test and become a certified electrician, or become a qualified person-electrician if enrolled in an approved alternative apprentice electrical training program as set forth in Section 8.1.

7.4. After becoming a certified electrician if he or she seeks employment in a job that requires a miners certificate by the Office of Miners Health, Safety & Training, all electrical work performed must be under the direct supervision of a certified electrician who is also qualified as a certified miner. A written record shall be kept at the mine site reflecting the work which was performed. After the employee has obtained a valid miners certificate and has worked at least (6) months and one hundred eight (108) shifts, he or she would be qualified to perform duties as an unsupervised certified electrician.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-8-8 Qualified Person-Electrician

8.1. When an apprentice electrician enrolled in an approved alternative electrical training program meets the requirements of the approved program he or she may take the electrical certification test and be issued a qualified person-electrician certification card. A qualified person-electrician would be limited to the following duties without working under the direct supervision of a certified electrician:

(a) Testing, troubleshooting and repairing low and medium voltage circuits, and;

(b) Required weekly examinations of Low and Medium voltage electrical equipment and required permissibility test of low and medium voltage equipment.

8.2. Duties which shall not be permitted by a qualified person-electrician without the direct supervision of a certified electrician includes:

(a) Troubleshooting of high voltage circuits, repairs of high voltage sub-stations, energizing or de-energizing open mounted type high voltage disconnects, splicing high voltage cables, testing and troubleshooting of high voltage transformers, high voltage vacuum breakers and high voltage line splitters, and;

(b) The required monthly tests of high voltage circuit protective devices.

8.3. Twelve (12) months from the original issue date of the qualified person- apprentice electricians card, the qualified person-electrician can apply for an electrical certification card. The application shall be submitted on a document provided by the Office of Miners Health, Safety and Training at which time an electricians card shall be issued.

WEST VIRGINIA OFFICE OF MINERS HEALTH SAFETY AND TRAINING

Apprentice Electrician Training Program PRACTICAL HANDS-ON LAB ELECTRICAL WORK PERFORMED BY APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS APPENDIX A Name: Apprentice Electrical Card No.

Date Low/Med High Voltage Type of Electrical Work Performed Electricians Electricians Apprentices Voltage Hours Hours Initials Initials Initials Total Low/Med Voltage Hours This Page: Signature of Apprentice Electrician:

Total High Voltage Hours This Page: Total Accumulated Hours Page Number:

WEST VIRGINIA OFFICE OF MINERS HEALTH SAFETY AND TRAINING

Apprentice Electrician Training Program ELECTRICAL WORK PREFORMED BY APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS AT THE MINE SITE APPENDIX B Name: Apprentice Electrical Card No.

Total High Voltage Hours This Page: Total Accumulated Hours Page Number:

48CSR8

Series 09 Duties and Standards for Certification of Underground Outby Mine Examiners for Coal Mines

W. Va. Code R. § 48-9-1 General

1.1. Scope. -- This rule pertains to the certification and duties of outby mine examiners in the state of West Virginia.

1.2. Authority. -- W. Va. Code §§22A-6-4 and 22A-6-5.

1.3. Filing Date. -- December 11, 2023

1.4. Effective Date. -- January 10, 2024

W. Va. Code R. § 48-9-2 Definitions

2.1. All terms used in this rule shall have the meanings set forth in WV Code §22A-1-2.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-9-3 Duties

3.1. The duties of the Outby Mine Examiner, acting as a certified person, to assist the Assistant Mine Foreman Fireboss / Mine Foreman Fireboss in performing required examinations (pre-shift, on-shift, and supplemental) of the mine for all hazardous conditions and violations of mandatory health or safety standards in the following areas:

3.1.1. Roof control;

3.1.2. Ventilation, methane;

3.1.3. Accumulations of combustible materials and application of rock dust;

3.1.4. Maintenance of travelways along belt conveyors, off-track haulage roadways, track haulage and its components;

3.1.5. Guarding moving machine parts; and

3.1.6. Maintenance of belt conveyor components.

3.2. The Outby Mine Examiner is limited to performing his/her duties in areas outby the working section as defined in WV Code §22A-1-2.(c)(13).

W. Va. Code R. § 48-9-4 Criteria for Outby Mine Examiner Certification

4.1. Prior to any person being issued an Outby Mine Examiner certification, such applicant must:

4.1.1. Possess a miner’s certification (see 48 CSR 2-2.9., “Guidelines for Issuing Underground Miner’s Certificate”);

4.1.2. Have a minimum of two (2) years’ experience and provide evidence on a form prescribed by the Director.

4.2. The experience requirements set out in Section 4.1.2 are intended to ensure that such individual possesses a basic and general knowledge of the mine environment and related hazards.

4.3. For those individuals currently holding a belt examiner certification issued by the Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training issued prior to August 1, 2023 may gain certification as an Outby Mine Examiner by:

4.3.1. Providing proof of said belt examiner certification;

4.3.2. Applying for the Outby Mine Examiner certification;

4.3.3. Attending a four (4) hour course of instruction provided by the OMHST covering at a minimum the following topics/requirements:

4.3.3.a. Lifeline.

4.3.3.b. SCSR and Cache.

4.3.3.c. Refuge Alternative.

4.3.3.d. Mine Ventilation and Controls – overcast, undercasts, regulators and seals.

4.3.3.e. Actions Required for excessive methane

4.3.3.f. Haulage Safety and track components if applicable; and

4.3.4. At the completion of the course of instruction in subsection 4.3.3, the trainee will be issued a 5000-23 form by a OMHST instructor documenting completion of the course. A copy of the completed 5000-23 form will be submitted with the application for outby mine examiner certification.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-9-5 Examination Components. 5.1 The purpose of the Outby Mine Examiner certification is to have the applicant demonstrate his or her knowledge of dangerous mine gases and their detection, mine safety, first aid, safety appliances, state and federal mining laws and regulations

5.2. Examinations for Outby Mine Examiner certification shall consist of the following two parts:

5.2.1. Written:

5.2.1.a. Mine Ventilation.

5.2.1.b. Mine Gases and Instruments.

5.2.1.c. Roof Control.

5.2.1.d. Lifeline.

5.2.1.e. SCSR Cache.

5.2.1.f. Refuge Alternative.

5.2.1.g. Accumulations of combustible materials.

5.2.1.h. Actions for excessive methane.

5.2.1.i. Fire Hazards.

5.2.1.j. Haulage Requirements.

5.2.1.k. Inspection and reporting procedures.

5.2.1.l. Belt Conveyor legal requirements.

5.2.1.m. Machine Guarding.

5.2.2. Practical:

5.2.2.a. Anemometer.

5.2.2.b. Approved multi-gas detector.

5.2.2.c. Map.

W. Va. Code R. § 48-9-6 Application for Certification and Testing Procedures. 6.1 Any person desiring to become certified as an Outby Mine Examiner must complete an application for certification and submit the same to the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training. The applicant will be notified by the nearest regional office of the time and place of the next regularly scheduled examination

6.2. A score of eighty percent (80%) on the written part, and passage of the practical part, is required for successful passage of the exam. The practical portion of the exam and subparts thereof will be scored on a pass/fail basis.

6.3. Upon taking the examination, any person who fails to achieve a score of eighty percent (80%) on the written part, or fails the practical part, shall be required to retake the entire examination in order to receive a certificate.

6.4. The Director of the Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training, in conjunction with the Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety, shall develop the application form and guidelines for processing applications and administering examinations.