U.S. Code of Federal Regulations
Regulations most recently checked for updates: Aug 28, 2025
§ 56.20001 - Intoxicating beverages and narcotics.
Intoxicating beverages and narcotics shall not be permitted or used in or around mines. Persons under the influence of alcohol or narcotics shall not be permitted on the job.
§ 56.20002 - Potable water.
(a) An adequate supply of potable drinking water shall be provided at all active working areas.
(b) The common drinking cup and containers from which drinking water must be dipped or poured are prohibited.
(c) Where single service cups are supplied, a sanitary container for unused cups and a receptacle for used cups shall be provided.
(d) When water is cooled by ice, the ice shall either be of potable water or shall not come in contact with the water.
(e) Potable water outlets shall be posted.
(f) Potable water systems shall be constructed to prevent backflow or backsiphonage of non-potable water.
§ 56.20003 - Housekeeping.
At all mining operations—
(a) Workplaces, passageways, storerooms, and service rooms shall be kept clean and orderly;
(b) The floor of every workplace shall be maintained in a clean and, so far as possible, dry condition. Where wet processes are used, drainage shall be maintained, and false floors, platforms, mats, or other dry standing places shall be provided where practicable; and
(c) Every floor, working place, and passageway shall be kept free from protruding nails, splinters, holes, or loose boards, as practicable.
§ 56.20008 - Toilet facilities.
(a) Toilet facilities shall be provided at locations that are compatible with the mine operations and that are readily accessible to mine personnel.
(b) The facilities shall be kept clean and sanitary. Separate toilet facilities shall be provided for each sex except where toilet rooms will be occupied by no more than one person at a time and can be locked from the inside.
§ 56.20009 - Tests for explosive dusts.
Dusts suspected of being explosive shall be tested for explosibility. If tests prove positive, appropriate control measures shall be taken.
§ 56.20010 - Retaining dams.
If failure of a water or silt retaining dam will create a hazard, it shall be of substantial construction and inspected at regular intervals.
§ 56.20011 - Barricades and warning signs.
Areas where health or safety hazards exist that are not immediately obvious to employees shall be barricaded, or warning signs shall be posted at all approaches. Warning signs shall be readily visible, legible, and display the nature of the hazard and any protective action required.