Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 25, June 21, 2024
Section 36-10-8 - Pillar recovery Pillar recovery shall be conducted in the following manner, unless otherwise specified in the roof control plan:
8.1. Full and partial pillar recovery shall not be conducted on the same pillar line, except where physical conditions such as unstable floor or roof, falls of roof, oil and gas well barriers or surface subsidence require that pillars be left in place.8.2. Before mining is started in a pillar split or lift:8.2.1. At least two (2) rows of breaker posts or equivalent support shall be installed -- a. As close to the initial intended breakline as practicable; and b. Across each opening leading into an area where full or partial pillar extraction has been completed.8.2.2. A row of roadside-radius (turn) posts or equivalent support shall be installed leading into the split or lift.8.3. Before mining is started on a final stump:8.3.1. At least two (2) rows of posts or equivalent support shall be installed on not more than four (4) - foot centers on each side of the roadway; and8.3.2. Only one (1) open roadway, which shall not exceed sixteen (16) feet wide, shall lead from solid pillars to the final stump of a pillar. Where posts are used as the sole means of roof support, the width of the roadway shall not exceed fourteen (14) feet.8.4. During open-end pillar extraction, at least two (2) rows of breaker posts or equivalent support shall be installed on not more than four (4) - foot centers. These supports shall be installed between the lift to be started and area where pillars have been extracted. These supports shall be maintained to within seven (7) feet of the face and the width of the roadway shall not exceed sixteen (16) feet. Where posts are used as the sole means of roof support, the width of the roadway shall not exceed fourteen (14) feet.8.5. Overlays and underlays of the area to be mined shall be reviewed by the Director or his representative, and the mine operator during the required periodic review of the approved roof control plan as required by W. Va. Code '22A-2-25(a) at any mine where pillar recovery is being performed.8.6. During pillar extraction all non-essential personnel shall remain outby the last open cross-cut of the place where coal is being removed.8.7. In mines where pillar extraction (second mining) has not been previously performed, the following requirements shall be met before pillaring is begun: 8.7.1. The operator shall review the provisions of the approved roof control plan concerning pillar extraction with all persons to be performing such work, immediately prior to the start of such work.8.7.2. The operator shall notify the district inspector in whose district the mine is located five (5) working days prior to the date pillaring is to begin. When deemed necessary the district inspector may require that he be present during the review of the approved roof control plan, provided that he can be present before pillaring is to begin.