Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 512 - Inspection and Safety of Mines
Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) Chapter 512 regulates the inspection and safety of mines in Nevada, aiming to ensure safe working conditions and compliance with health and safety standards. This chapter is administered by the Administrator of the Division of Industrial Relations within the Department of Business and Industry.(leg.state.nv.us)
🏢 Administrator's Authority and Responsibilities
Appointment and Qualifications: The Administrator must have at least 7 years of technical, operational, or management experience in mining, milling, beneficiation, or smelting, with at least 3 years in underground mining. (leg.state.nv.us)
Regulatory Powers: The Administrator is authorized to adopt regulations for mine health and safety that provide protection at least equal to federal standards, considering sources like the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act, ANSI, ASME, ASTM, and NFPA codes. (leg.state.nv.us)
Annual Reporting: An annual report detailing the administration of the Administrator’s functions under this chapter must be submitted to the Governor and the Mining Oversight and Accountability Commission. (leg.state.nv.us)
🔍 Inspection and Enforcement
Annual Inspections: The Administrator or their designee must inspect and investigate all mines in each mining county at least once a year to assess compliance with health and safety regulations and to investigate accidents or hazardous conditions. (nevada.public.law)
Worker Participation: During inspections, the authorized representative of the workers must be given an opportunity to accompany the Administrator. If no representative is available, the Administrator shall consult with a reasonable number of workers regarding health and safety matters. (leg.state.nv.us)
Enforcement Actions: If imminent danger or violations are found, the Administrator can issue orders to withdraw workers from hazardous areas or to cease the use of unsafe equipment until the danger is mitigated. (leg.state.nv.us)
đź“‹ Reporting and Documentation
Operator Obligations: Operators must maintain records and reports on production, employment, mine activity, accidents, injuries, illnesses, and other relevant data. These reports must be submitted at least annually and upon the Administrator's request. (leg.state.nv.us)
Notification of Operations: Operators are required to notify the Administrator before opening and upon closing mine operations, providing details such as the mine's name and location, the operator's information, and the nature of the operation. (leg.state.nv.us)
⚠️ Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operators who violate health or safety regulations, interfere with inspections, refuse to provide assistance, or fail to comply with orders may face penalties. Specific prohibited acts include:(leg.state.nv.us)
Violating or refusing to comply with health or safety regulations.(leg.state.nv.us)
Interfering with or hindering the Administrator's duties.
Refusing admission to the Administrator for inspections.(leg.state.nv.us)
Refusing to permit inspections of equipment or property.
Knowingly making false statements in records or reports. (leg.state.nv.us)
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