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Disclaimer: The English language text below is provided by the Translation and Terminology Centre for information only; it confers no rights and imposes no obligations separate from those conferred or imposed by the legislation formally adopted and published. Only the latter is authentic. The original Latvian text uses masculine pronouns in the singular. The Translation and Terminology Centre uses the principle of gender-neutral language in its English translations. In addition, gender-specific Latvian nouns have been translated as gender-neutral terms, e.g. chairperson.


Republic of Latvia

Cabinet
Regulation No 150
Adopted 21 February 2006

Labour Protection Requirements for Extraction of Minerals

Issued pursuant to
Section 25, Clauses 8, 9 and 18
of the Labour Protection Law

I. General Provisions

1. These Regulations prescribe the labour protection requirements in works that are related to geological search, investigation and extraction of minerals and preparation thereof for sale (hereinafter - extraction of minerals), except for the further processing of minerals.

2. Requirements of these Regulations shall be applied to the extraction of minerals (within the meaning of the Law On Subterranean Depths) on the surface, beneath the surface of the land and underground, as well as the extraction of minerals through drilling.

3. An employer shall be liable for compliance with these Regulations.

4. Compliance with these Regulations shall be controlled by the State Labour Inspection.

II. Obligations of Employers

5. An employer shall ensure:

5.1. such design, construction, equipment, complementation, utilisation and maintenance of workplaces as the employees shall be able to perform work duties without endangering the safety or health of themselves or other employees;

5.2. utilisation of the workplace only under the supervision of such an employee as appointed by the employer who has the necessary knowledge and skills in the field related to the provision of labour protection at the relevant workplace (hereinafter - appointed responsible employee);

5.3. that works of increased risk (for example, blasting works) shall be carried out by appropriately trained employees in accordance with the instructions of labour protection;

5.4. the opportunity for employees to receive appropriate first aid;

5.5. regular practical training and instruction of employees regarding labour protection issues in accordance with the requirements specified in the Labour Protection Law;

5.6. providing comprehensible information to employees and trusted representatives thereof, as well as informing thereof on a regular basis in accordance with the requirements specified in the Labour Protection Law regarding all labour protection measures taken and to be taken at the workplace, as well as regarding:

5.6.1. the results of risk assessment and preventative measures;

5.6.2. collective and personal protective equipment; and

5.7. the health monitoring of employees in accordance with regulatory enactments regarding procedures for the performance of a mandatory health examination.

6. An employer shall ensure the development of a labour protection plan and the updating thereof in accordance with the changes in work process (hereinafter - plan), taking into account the general principles of labour protection and the obligations of the employer specified in the Labour Protection Law. The plan shall particularly indicate:

6.1. the results of the evaluation of work environment risks;

6.2. the labour protection measures to be taken in order to ensure the safety and health protection of employees;

6.3. the certification that the construction, utilisation and maintenance of the workplace and equipment is safe;

6.4. the procedures for work organisation, management and supervision, as well as for the organisation of labour protection; and

6.5. the possible sources of outbreak of fire and the appropriate measures for the detection, control and extinguishing of a fire.

7. The plan shall be prepared prior to the commencement of work and it shall be reviewed if the work organisation, technology and work equipment is changed, the workplace has been enlarged or modified or an accident at work has occurred after which the work equipment has been changed and measures have been taken to avoid the repetition of such cases.

8. If the workplaces of employees of several employers are located in the one mineral resource extraction site, the employers shall co-operate by preparing plans and measures to be performed in order to ensure the safety and health protection.

9. If employees of several employers concurrently work at the same workplace:

9.1. each employer shall be responsible for issues within his or her competence;

9.2. an employer responsible for the workplace shall harmonise and co-ordinate all measures related to labour protection and shall specify the purpose, measures and procedures of harmonisation in his or her plan, as well as shall take the necessary measures for the employer of employees involved in his or her undertaking from another undertaking to receive information regarding the risk of the work environment prior to such involvement; and

9.3. the harmonisation of the labour protection measures shall not reduce the liability of each employer in this field.

10. For the protection from the risk of causing fire, explosion and emerging of work environment harmful to health taking into account the specific nature of work, amount and potential number of employees the employer shall ensure the following:

10.1. necessary labour protection measures to prevent, detect and eliminate the cause and extension of fire and explosions, as well as to prevent the occurrence of an explosive or harmful to health work environment atmosphere;

10.2. emergency and rescue measures in order for the employees to be able to leave the workplaces safely and quickly;

10.3. clear emergency routes and exits;

10.4. a sufficient amount of appropriate equipment for first aid, fire-fighting, explosion safety and evacuation;

10.5. a sufficient number of specially trained employees with the necessary equipment who in the case of a fire or other hazard are able to provide help and act in accordance with the plan; and

10.6. appropriate warning and other information systems so that, if necessary, employees may be informed of the safety measures to be taken and evacuation possibilities, as well as the assistance, evacuation and rescue operations to be commenced.

11. An employer shall ensure the necessary measures for the safety and protection of the health of employees in emergency situations, as well as the informing of the relevant emergency and rescue services.

12. Accidents at work shall be examined in accordance with regulatory enactments regarding the procedures for the investigation and registration of accidents at work.

III. General Labour Protection Requirements at Workplaces

13. Requirements specified in this Chapter shall be applied to work related to the extraction of minerals, taking into account the special features of the workplace, type of activity, circumstances and the work environment risk.

14. Workplaces shall be designed, constructed, equipped, utilised, supervised and maintained so as to withstand the environmental forces anticipated and to conform to the type of utilisation thereof.

15. Workplaces shall be organised and utilised in accordance with the following requirements:

15.1. workplaces shall be organised so as to provide adequate protection against the harmful impact of the work environment. Workplaces shall be maintained in order, any hazardous substances or sediment shall be removed or controlled in order not to endanger the safety and health of employees;

15.2. workplaces shall be planned and organised (equipped) in accordance with the principles of ergonomics;

15.3. danger areas in which serious and direct hazards exist shall be demarcated and indicated by warning signs in accordance with regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements for the use of safety signs; and

15.4. isolated workplaces shall be provided with appropriate means of communications.

16. In order to ensure the safety and health protection of employees during the work shift at each workplace, the employer shall:

16.1. ensure that the appointed responsible employee performs supervision at the workplace at all times while there are employees working there; and

16.2. specify the procedures for supervision.

17. An employer may personally assume the supervision and responsibility referred to in Paragraph 16 of these Regulations for the workplace if he or she has the appropriate knowledge and skills.

18. There shall be a sufficient number of employees at each workplace who are trained for the performance of the relevant work and have the knowledge and experience corresponding to the specific nature and amount of work.

19. Employees shall be provided with necessary written instructions and other regulating documents for each workplace, as well the training and instruction of the employees shall be performed in accordance with the requirements specified by regulatory enactments regarding training in labour protection issues. In addition the safe utilisation of emergency equipment and action in emergency situations shall be indicated in the instructions.

20. Safe working methods shall be used at each workplace performing any work in accordance with the developed instructions.

21. A working procedure in accordance with the plan shall be developed and documented for the performance of dangerous work and for the performance of such simple work, which together with other activities may cause serious and direct danger. The appointed responsible employee shall issue a work permit before the commencement of such work. Regulations for the performance of work, as well as safety measures to be taken before work, during the work and after the work shall be specified in the work permit.

22. In using mechanical and electrical equipment and tools (hereinafter - work equipment) the following conditions shall be complied with:

22.1. work equipment shall be installed, prepared for work and operated, as well as maintenance thereof shall be performed in compliance with the labour protection requirements and the relevant regulatory enactments;

22.2. in an area where an explosive environment exists or may occur, vapour or quickly evaporating liquid exists or may occur, work equipment, which is suitable for utilisation in the relevant area, shall be used;

22.3. if necessary, work equipment shall be equipped with appropriate protective equipment and appropriate (fail-safe) security systems;

22.4. work equipment shall be installed and protected so that risk to the safety and health of employees is prevented; and

22.5. work equipment, also mechanical devices and instruments, electrical installations and instruments shall be sufficiently durable, of corresponding size and capacity, without deficiencies and shall be comply with the purpose of utilisation thereof.

23. Requirements for the technical maintenance of work equipment shall be as follows:

23.1. work equipment shall be examined, maintained and controlled regularly in accordance with a scheme approved by the employer, taking into account the instructions of the manufacturer and the requirements of regulatory enactments regarding work equipment; and

23.2. any part of work equipment shall be examined, maintained and controlled by an appropriately trained employee.

24. Safety equipment shall be technically maintained ready to use and in working order, and in performing the maintenance the operation principles of safety equipment shall be taken into account.

25. During drilling work appropriate control devices shall be used to prevent an unforeseen discharge, taking into account the conditions of drilling and servicing work.

26. In designing, fitting and using or maintaining workplaces, measures shall be taken in order not to allow a fire to break out and spread. If however a fire breaks out, ensure that it is rapidly and efficiently extinguished.

27. General safety measures for protection against the impact of the atmosphere of the work environment harmful to health, the risk of explosion and fire are as follows:

27.1. the presence of hazardous, flammable and explosive substances in the atmosphere of the work environment shall be assessed and the concentration of such substances shall be measured;

27.2. if it is required in accordance with the plan, automatic and continuous gas concentration measuring devices, automatic alarm devices and devices, which ensure an automatic power cut off from electrical installations and internal combustion engines, shall be placed at specified places;

27.3. if automatic measuring is performed, the results thereof shall be registered and stored in accordance with the plan;

27.4. smoking is prohibited in places, which are subject to the risk of fire or explosion, and such places shall be indicated with appropriate safety signs in accordance with regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs; and

27.5. it is prohibited to use an open flame and perform work that may cause a danger of ignition, except in cases when the relevant safety measures have been taken to prevent the ignition or explosion.

28. Requirements referred to in Sub-paragraphs 27.4 and 27.5 of these Regulations shall not be applicable to works in mines that are filled in with gas and in mines that contain explosive dust. Requirements referred to in Paragraphs 88 and 89 of these Regulations shall be observed in such mines.

29. Safety measures for the protection against the impact of the atmosphere of the work environment harmful to health are as follows:

29.1. if hazardous substances accumulate or may accumulate in the atmosphere of work environment, measures shall be taken in order to:

29.1.1. prevent the release of hazardous substances;

29.1.2. ensure the collection of hazardous substances at the place of release or relocation thereof;

29.1.3. ensure the safe accumulation or dispersion of the hazardous substances so as not to endanger employees;

29.2. in the place, where the impact of the atmosphere of the work environment harmful to health is possible, respiratory and resuscitation equipment shall be placed. Taking into account the number of employees who may be subjected to the effect of hazardous substances, employees trained to handle the referred to equipment shall be appointed. The equipment shall be stored and maintained in working order in conformity with the specified requirements; and

29.3. if hydrogen sulphide or other toxic gases are or may be present in the atmosphere of the work environment, required protective equipment shall be specified in a separate chapter of the plan and prevention measures to be taken shall be determined.

30. Safety measures for protection against the risk of explosion are as follows:

30.1. all necessary measures shall be taken to prevent the formation of an explosive atmosphere and the increase of concentration of hazardous substances;

30.2. at places where the risk of explosion exists the necessary measures shall be taken in order to prevent the ignition of a mixture of explosive substances and products with air and the explosion of unexploded projectiles;

30.3. a plan for the prevention of an explosion shall be developed, in which the necessary equipment and measure to be taken shall be specified in detail; and

30.4. only employees trained to handle such works and appointed by the employer shall store, transport and use explosives and equipment, which may cause explosion. Such work shall be organised and performed without employees being subject to risk.

31. Requirements for fire alarm systems, automatic fire detectors and fire-fighting equipment are as follows:

31.1. taking into account the specific nature of the workplace, size of premises and purposes of use, equipment located therein, the physical and chemical properties of materials used, as well as the maximum potential number of persons present, workplaces shall be provided with appropriate fire-fighting equipment in sufficient quantity and, if necessary, with fire detectors and alarm systems;

31.2. fire-fighting equipment, fire detectors and fire alarm systems shall be examined regularly and maintained in accordance with a specified order;

31.3. fire-fighting devices (non-automatic) shall be easily accessible and simple to use, as well as protected from possible damage;

31.4. the means of fire-fighting shall be easily accessible and simple to use and the location thereof shall be indicated by signs located in accordance with the regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs; and

31.5. a plan for protection against fire shall be developed and available at the workplace, in which the safety measures to be taken in accordance with these Regulations in order to protect from fire, to detect, combat it rapidly and efficiently, not allowing the spread of fire are specified in detail.

32. Requirements for routes and passages in the territory of an undertaking (hereinafter - traffic routes) shall be as follows:

32.1. traffic routes shall ensure the possibility for employees to access workplaces safely and leave them quickly in an emergency situation;

32.2. pedestrians and vehicles shall be ensured with an easy, safe and appropriate access to traffic routes, stairs, also fixed staircases and ladders, loading and unloading platforms and ramps so that employees who work near traffic roads are not endangered;

32.3. the number and size of pedestrian walkways and traffic routes shall correspond to the number of users and the activities to be carried out;

32.4. if traffic routes are utilised by vehicles and pedestrians, safety clearance of sufficient width shall be installed;

32.5. traffic routes shall be a sufficient and safe distance away from doors, gates, thoroughfares, pedestrian walkways, corridors and staircase landings;

32.6. traffic routes shall be clearly identified, regularly monitored and maintained; and

32.7. if vehicles enter workplaces, appropriate traffic regulation shall be determined and complied with.

33. Requirements for emergency routes and exits shall be as follows:

33.1. the emergency routes and exits shall be free and shall ensure evacuation of employees from all workplaces to the safe zone (by shortest way), assembly or evacuation area as quickly and safely as possible;

33.2. the number, distribution and dimensions of the emergency routes and exits shall be determined taking into account the purpose of utilisation of the workplaces, equipment located therein and dimensions thereof, as well as the maximum potential number of persons present;

33.3. the emergency routes and exits shall be indicated in accordance with regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs;

33.4. the emergency routes and exits requiring illumination shall be provided with emergency lighting of adequate intensity if the work lighting is damaged; and

33.5. the emergency doors shall not be locked or closed so that it is not possible to open them easily and immediately during the times employees are present. The emergency doors shall open outwards or, if this is impossible, be sliding doors.

34. The requirements for danger areas shall be as follows:

34.1. the danger areas shall be clearly indicated with safety signs in accordance with the regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs;

34.2. if workplaces have danger areas where employees or objects may fall, such zones, if possible, shall be equipped so as to prevent the entrance of unauthorised persons; and

34.3. necessary measures shall be taken in order to protect employees and other persons who are permitted to be present in a danger zone.

35. Workplaces outdoors shall comply with the following requirements:

35.1. workplaces, traffic routes and other areas or equipment outdoors, which are used by employees during the course of work or where employees are located, shall be organised in such a way as to enable pedestrians and vehicles to move safely;

35.2. if necessary, workplaces outdoors shall be provided with artificial lighting;

35.3. employees shall be protected against unfavourable weather conditions and from falling objects;

35.4. employees shall be provided with appropriate protective equipment against slipping and falling;

35.5. employees shall have the possibility to leave the workplace quickly in cases of an accident, fire or other situations dangerous to health and life, as well as the provision of first aid shall be ensured; and

35.6. employees shall be protected against the effect of a harmful work environment (for example, gases, vapour, dust, noises, vibration).

36. The means of evacuation and rescue shall be located at special places, they shall be easily accessible, maintained in working order and indicated with safety signs in accordance with the regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs. Employees shall be trained for action in emergency situations, as well as in the use of the means of evacuation and rescue.

37. Training in the safety measures shall be held at regular intervals, but not less than once a year at all workplaces where employees are usually present. The purpose of the training is to provide knowledge and examine the abilities and skills of the employees to whom specific duties have been assigned in case of an emergency, particularly related to the use, handling or operation of the rescue equipment. If necessary other employees shall be also trained to use, handle or correctly operate the referred to equipment.

38. The first aid facilities shall be as follows:

38.1. the equipment and means of first aid shall be available at all workplaces in accordance with working conditions, and such equipment and means shall be indicated with safety signs in accordance with the regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs;

38.2. taking into account the type of activity, extent of work and work environment risk, one or more first aid rooms shall be organised in which first aid equipment and means is provided, and for which easy access to stretchers can be ensured;

38.3. instructions regarding first aid in cases of an accident shall be placed at clearly visible places in the first aid rooms;

38.4. the first aid rooms shall be indicated with safety signs in accordance with the regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs;

38.5. first aid kits shall be available at all workplaces where, due to working conditions, they are necessary, and the location thereof shall be indicated by safety signs; and

38.6. a sufficient number of employees shall be trained in the provision of the first aid.

39. The requirements for the lighting of workplaces shall be as follows:

39.1. workplaces shall be ensured with natural light and equipped with artificial lighting in such a way that the total intensity of the lighting is adequate for the safety and health of workers;

39.2. illuminating devices at workplaces and exits shall be located in such a manner that employees are not subjected to risk of accidents and occupational diseases, which are related to insufficient lighting;

39.3. workplaces, in which sudden damaging or switching off of lighting may harm the safety and health of employees, shall be equipped with sufficient emergency lighting;

39.4. if necessary employees shall be provided with individual illuminating devices; and

39.5. illuminating devices shall be located so as to provide lighting in working rooms, emergency routes, loading zones and danger areas at times when there are employees present.

40. The requirements referred to in Paragraph 39 of these Regulations shall not be applicable to underground extraction of minerals. In such work, the requirements referred to in Paragraphs 94 and 95 of these Regulations for the lighting of the workplace shall be complied with.

41. The requirements for the ventilation of enclosed workplaces and microclimate shall be as follows:

41.1. a sufficient supply of fresh air shall be ensured in workplaces, taking into account the nature of the work and the physical load of employees;

41.2. the air-conditioning or ventilation systems shall be maintained in good order, regularly cleaned and the efficiency of operation thereof shall be inspected;

41.3. a ventilation control system shall be installed, which indicates disturbances in the operation of the ventilation system;

41.4. the operation of mechanical ventilation systems and air-conditioning equipment shall ensure the required microclimate;

41.5. concentration of such substances, which upon coming into contact with the human body can cause an accident, an occupational disease or other health problems (harmful substance) shall not exceed the occupational exposure limit value to harmful substances;

41.6. the ventilation system shall be linked with fire-detectors or fire-fighting equipment, so that, during a fire, the ventilation is switched off, preventing the fire from spreading to other premises;

41.7. an air temperature appropriate for the nature of the work and the physical load of the employees shall be ensured in the working premises; and

41.8. the air temperature in rest areas, rooms for duty staff, changing rooms, lavatories, showers, canteens and first aid rooms shall be appropriate for the intended use for such areas.

42. The requirements for floors, walls, ceiling and roofs of rooms shall be as follows:

42.1. the floors of the rooms shall be stable and secured, they must not be slippery or have dangerous bumps, holes or slopes that may endanger the safety and health of employees;

42.2. the workplaces shall have adequate thermal insulation, taking into account the nature of the work and the physical load of the employees;

42.3. the floors, walls and ceilings in the rooms shall be easy to clean and refurbished in conformity with the standards of hygiene;

42.4. transparent or translucent walls, in particular all-glass partitions in work premises and in the proximity to traffic routes shall be clearly marked, made from safe material or demarcated in such a way as to prevent workers from coming into contact with walls or being injured in case the walls shatter; and

42.5. performance of work on or access to roofs by employees shall be prevented, if the roofs are made of insufficiently durable materials or may otherwise create a hazard to the safety and health of workers (for example, if not fenced off), unless such equipment is provided that allows the work to be performed safely.

43. The requirements for windows and skylights shall be as follows:

43.1. the windows, skylights and glass partitions shall not allow excessive effects of sunlight in the workplace, taking into account the specific nature of the work and the workplace;

43.2. the employees shall have the possibility to open, close, adjust or secure windows, skylights and ventilation devices in a safe manner;

43.3. open windows, skylights or ventilation devices shall not create a risk to the employees; and

43.4. windows and skylights shall be designed together with facilities for cleaning thereof, or shall be fitted with devices allowing such to be cleaned without the risk to the employees carrying out such work or to employees in the proximity of the windows.

44. The requirements for doors and gates shall be as follows:

44.1. the location, number and dimensions of doors and gates, as well as the materials used in the construction thereof shall be determined, taking into account the characteristics and use of the premises, and the nature of the work;

44.2. transparent doors shall be labelled at a conspicuous level;

44.3. swing doors and gates shall be transparent or have translucent elements;

44.4. if transparent or translucent parts in doors and gates are not made of durable material or may otherwise cause a risk of incurring injuries or traumas, they shall be protected against breakage;

44.5. sliding doors shall be fitted with a safety device to prevent them from being derailed and falling over;

44.6. doors and gates opening upwards shall be fitted with a mechanism to prevent such from falling back;

44.7. safety signs shall mark doors opening the emergency routes and exits in accordance with the regulatory enactments regarding labour protection requirements as regards the use of safety signs and at any time they can be opened from the inside without assistance;

44.8. if the safe passage for pedestrians through gates intended for vehicles can not be ensured, doors for pedestrians shall be organised in proximity of the gates;

44.9. doors for pedestrians shall be marked by safety signs and kept unobstructed;

44.10. the operation of mechanical doors and gates shall not endanger employees, and the doors and gates shall be fitted with easily identifiable and accessible emergency shut-down devices, which allow such to be opened manually if due to the failure of the power supply the doors and gates do not open automatically;

44.11. gates intended for vehicles shall be marked in warning colours from the inside; and

44.12. if chains or similar devices are utilised for the demarcation of any territory, they shall be visible and marked by signs denoting prohibition or warning.

45. The requirements of dimensions and space to ensure the freedom of movement of employees at workplaces shall be as follows:

45.1. work premises shall be sufficiently large and high and with sufficient air so that the employees can perform the work without risk to the safety and health thereof; and

45.2. unoccupied sections of work premises shall be large enough as to allow sufficient freedom of movement to employees and to enable them to perform their work safely.

46. The requirements for rest rooms shall be as follows (the requirements referred to in this Paragraph may not be applied to offices or other similar workplaces where employees have adequate possibilities for rest in their work premises during interruptions of work):

46.1. in accordance with the specific nature of the work and number of employee's rest rooms shall be comfortable and accessible;

46.2. the rest rooms shall be sufficiently spacious and with an adequate number of tables and seats with backrests;

46.3. if due to the specific nature of the work it is not possible to organise rest rooms, but employees need frequent and regular breaks during work, another room shall be organised, in which the employees can stay during breaks; and

46.4. non-smokers shall be protected against the discomfort caused by smoking.

47. The requirements for changing rooms and lockers shall be as follows:

47.1. changing rooms shall be organised if it is intended that special work clothes are to be worn during the process of work and where, for reasons of health or propriety, employees are not to be expected to change in another place;

47.2. the changing rooms shall be easily accessible, sufficiently spacious, and equipped with seating and lockers;

47.3. if working conditions are related to the exposure of harmful substances, humidity, dirt or other factors, the storing of personal clothing and work clothes in separate lockers shall be ensured;

47.4. a possibility to dry wet work clothes shall be ensured;

47.5. separate changing rooms shall be installed for men and women or, if that is not possible, separate use of changing rooms for men and women shall be provided; and

47.6. if changing rooms are not required in accordance with Sub-paragraph 47.1 of these Regulations, each employee shall be provided with a place to lock and store his or her personal clothing and belongings.

48. The requirements for shower rooms, washbasins and lavatories shall be as follows:

48.1. shower rooms shall be organised if it is necessary due to the nature of the work to be performed or the health protection of employees. If possible, separate shower rooms shall be organised for men and women, or, if this is not possible, separate use of shower rooms for men and women shall be ensured;

48.2. the shower rooms shall be sufficiently spacious to permit workers to wash without hindrance to each other in conformity with hygiene requirements;

48.3. the showers shall have a hot and cold water supply;

48.4. if shower rooms are not organised in accordance with Sub-paragraph 48.1 of these Regulations, washbasins with a supply of hot and cold running water shall be installed in the proximity of the work premises and the changing rooms;

48.5. in the cases specified in Sub-paragraph 48.4 of these Regulations, if necessary, the washbasins shall be separated or separate utilisation for men and women shall be ensured;

48.6. if shower rooms or washbasins are installed separately from the changing rooms, easy communication between the two shall be ensured;

48.7. the number of lavatories and washbasins shall be sufficient, taking into account the number of workers, and such shall be equipped with personal hygiene products (toilet paper, soap, towels or other types of devices for hand drying);

48.8. lavatories and washbasins shall be installed near the work premises and rest rooms, changing rooms and shower rooms. If minerals are extracted underground, lavatories, washbasins and shower rooms may be located on the surface; and

48.9. men and women shall have separate lavatories or separate use of lavatories for men and women shall be ensured.

49. If pregnant women and nursing mothers are employed, they shall be ensured the opportunity to lie down and rest in appropriate conditions.

50. If disabled persons are employed, workplaces shall be organised pursuant to the needs thereof, especially fitting the doors, pedestrian walkways, stairs, showers, washbasins and lavatories.

51. Mineral spoil and provisions of other materials or substances created during the extraction of minerals shall be maintained so that as to ensure the safety and health of employees.

IV. Additional Labour Protection Requirements for Extraction of Minerals on Dry Land, Using Drilling Method

52. In accordance with the plan a possibility to control the specific equipment with remote devices in case of an emergency shall be provided. Such equipment shall include systems that isolate an unexpected discharge from drillings (for example, petroleum, gas escape), machinery and pipelines, as well as ensure the discontinuation of the discharge.

53. The requirements for means of communication in normal conditions and in an emergency situation shall be as follows:

53.1. if it is necessary in accordance with the plan, each workplace where employees are present shall be provided with:

53.1.1. an acoustic and optical system transmitting an alarm indication to every employee of the relevant workplace; and

53.1.2. an acoustic system ensuring distinct hearing in all places where employees are frequently present;

53.2. the facilities for raising an alarm shall be located at suitable places; and

53.3. employees shall be provided with special communication equipment at workplaces where it is not possible to ensure supervision.

54. In accordance with the plan the employer shall specify safe assembly areas and prepare a list of those employees who gather in such areas.

55. If emergency routes are complicated and air unsuited for respiration is present or may be present, the workplace shall be provided with self-contained escape apparatus for immediate use.

56. Accommodation and rest rooms shall have at least two separate emergency exits located as far apart as possible and through which the safe zone, assembly or evacuation area is accessible.

V. Additional Labour Protection Requirements for Extraction of Minerals at Sea, Using Drilling Method

57. In addition to the requirements referred to in Paragraph 6 of these Regulations the employer shall indicate in the plan what measures are to be taken in order to protect the safety and health of employees in normal conditions and an emergency situation.

58. The following shall be indicated in the plan:

58.1. the risk factors (sources) related to the workplace, as well as any supplementary activities that may cause accidents with serious consequences to the health and safety of employees;

58.2. assessment of the risk created by the risk factors (sources) referred to in Sub-paragraph 58.1 of these Regulations;

58.3. that all necessary safety measures have been taken to prevent the possibility of accidents and disasters caused by the risk factors (sources) referred to in Sub-paragraph 58.1 of these Regulations, to restrict the spreading of danger and to ensure the effective and safe evacuation of employees in case of an emergency situation;

58.4. that the supervision system in normal conditions and in case of an emergency situation complies with the requirements specified in the Labour Protection Law and these Regulations; and

58.5. the parameters of meteorological conditions, during the existence of which the performance of work at sea shall not be permitted.

59. In planning and implementing the activities to which this Chapter applies, the employer shall comply with the procedures and methods specified in the plan.

60. The fire-safety requirements shall be as follows:

60.1. safety measures shall be taken in accordance with the plan in order to prevent the outbreak and spreading of fire, to detect and combat thereof in due time;

60.2. fire walls (where necessary) shall be installed in order to separate the fire-risk zones;

60.3. in accordance with the risks specified in the plan all workplaces shall be provided with the relevant fire detection and protection systems, fire-fighting systems and alarm systems, for example:

60.3.1. fire detection systems;

60.3.2. fire alarm systems;

60.3.3. fire water mains;

60.3.4. fire hydrants and hoses;

60.3.5. water deluge systems and water monitors;

60.3.6. automatic sprinkler systems;

60.3.7. gas extinguishing systems;

60.3.8. foam systems;

60.3.9. portable fire extinguishers; and

60.3.10. fireman's equipment;

60.4. the alarm systems shall be demarcated or otherwise protected to ensure the operation thereof during an accident. If necessary, such systems shall be duplicated.

61. In accordance with the plan the remote control system shall be set up for emergency situations:

61.1. such system shall include control points at appropriate places which may be utilised in an emergency situation, if necessary including the control points in safe assembly areas and evacuation points;

61.2. the system shall include equipment for ventilation, emergency shutdown of flammable equipment, for the prevention of the escape of flammable fluids and gas, fire protection and drilling control.

62. The requirements for the means of communication in normal conditions and in an emergency situation shall be as follows:

62.1. if it is intended in the plan, each workplace where employees are present shall be provided with:

62.1.1. an acoustic and optical system transmitting an alarm indication to every employee of the relevant workplace;

62.1.2. an acoustic system ensuring distinct hearing in all places where employees are frequently present; and

62.1.3. a system maintaining communication with the coastal and rescue services;

62.2. it shall be ensured that the systems referred to in Sub-paragraph 62.1 of these Regulations are capable of operating in an emergency situation;

62.3. an acoustic system, if necessary, shall be supplemented by a communication system that is not dependent on a possible power supply failure;

62.4. facilities for raising an alarm shall be located at suitable places; and

62.5. employees shall be provided with special communication equipment at workplaces where it is not possible to ensure supervision.

63. The requirements for safe assembly areas and the list of employees shall be as follows:

63.1. the employer shall take adequate measures to protect evacuation areas and safe assembly areas from heat, smoke and risk of explosion, as well as ensure that escape routes to and from evacuation areas and safe assembly areas remain usable;

63.2. the measures referred to in Sub-paragraph 63.1 of these Regulations shall provide protection to employees for a sufficient period in order, if necessary, to organise and perform safe evacuation and rescue;

63.3. in accordance with the plan a possibility to control the equipment referred to in Sub-paragraph 61.2 of these Regulations by means of remote control devices and to communicate with the coastal and rescue services shall be ensured at least in one of the protected places referred to in Sub-paragraph 63.1 of these Regulations;

63.4. safe assembly areas and evacuation areas shall be easily accessible from accommodation premises and workplaces;

63.5. each safe assembly area shall have a list in which employees who will gather at the relevant place in case of danger shall be specified. The list shall be kept up to date;

63.6. the list of such employees who have special duties in an emergency situation shall be prepared and placed in appropriate places at the workplace. Their names shall be indicated in the written instructions referred to in Paragraph 19 of these Regulations.

64. For evacuation and rescue of employees the following measures shall be taken:

64.1. in addition to the general training employees shall be trained to act in emergency situations in accordance with the specific nature of the workplace. Training for each particular workplace shall be determined in the plan;

64.2. employees shall be trained for survival in emergency situations, taking into account the criteria specified in the plan;

64.3. each workplace shall be provided in sufficient quantity with appropriate means of evacuation for emergency situations and the means for direct escape to the sea and further to the coast;

64.4. accommodation and rest rooms shall have at least two separate emergency exits located as far apart as possible and through which the safe zone, assembly or evacuation area is accessible;

64.5. in accordance with the plan procedures for rescue operation in the sea and situation when the evacuation of the workplace is necessary shall be determined. It shall provide the utilisation of standby vessels and helicopters and specify the criteria related to the capacity and arrival time of the standby vessels and helicopters;

64.6. the shortest time possible necessary for the arrival to each platform shall be specified in the plan;

64.7. standby vessels shall be designed and equipped in conformity with evacuation and rescue requirements;

64.8. every lifeboat, survival raft, life-buoy and life-jacket shall comply with the following minimum requirements:

64.8.1. they shall be suitable and equipped so as to ensure the maintenance of human life by the end of evacuation;

64.8.2. the number thereof shall correspond to the number of employees;

64.8.3. they shall conform to the particular workplace;

64.8.4. they shall be constructed of suitable materials having regard to their life-saving function and the circumstances in which they may be used and kept ready for use;

64.8.5. they shall be clearly visible (in an appropriate colour) during use and equipped with devices that the user can use to attract the attention of rescuers; and

64.9. the life-saving devices shall be ready for immediate use.

65. Safety drills shall be performed in accordance with the following procedure:

65.1. at all workplaces where employees are usually present the safety drills shall be organised regularly, but not less than once a year for such employees whose duty is to use, control or operate the emergency equipment, and the execution of their duties shall be examined taking into account the criteria referred to in the plan;

65.2. the emergency equipment utilised in drills shall be examined, cleaned and, if necessary, refilled and changed. The portable equipment utilised in drills shall be transferred to the place where it is usually kept; and

65.3. lifeboats shall be checked for operation.

66. Taking into account the size and type of operation of the platform, one or several first aid posts shall be organised with a sufficient number of trained employees who may provide first aid and, if necessary, to also treat under the management of a physician.

67. Accommodation rooms shall be designed and constructed in compliance with the following requirements:

67.1. if in accordance with the nature, amount and duration of the work it is required, the employer shall provide employees with accommodation that complies with the following requirements:

67.1.1. in accordance with the plan, it shall be protected against the risk of explosions, the infiltration of smoke and gas and the outbreak and spread of fire;

67.1.2. it shall be equipped with adequate ventilation, heating and lighting;

67.1.3. at least two independent exits leading to escape routes shall be provided at each floor;

67.1.4. it shall be protected against noise, smells and fumes likely to be hazardous to health from other areas, and against inclement weather conditions; and

67.1.5. it shall be separated from all workplaces and located away from dangerous zones;

67.2. the accommodation rooms shall have suitable beds or bunks in accordance with the number of employees;

67.3. any room provided as sleeping accommodation shall have a place for the occupants to store their clothes;

67.4. separate sleeping rooms for men and women shall be provided;

67.5. accommodation rooms shall have a sufficient number of showers and washbasins with the supply of hot and cold running water;

67.6. separate shower rooms for men and women shall be provided or separate use of shower rooms for men and women shall be ensured;

67.7. shower rooms shall be sufficiently spacious to permit workers to wash without hindrance to each other in accordance with hygiene requirements;

67.8. accommodation rooms shall have a sufficient number of lavatories and washbasins;

67.9. men and women shall have separate lavatories or separate use of lavatories for men and women shall be ensured; and

67.10. accommodation rooms and equipment thereof shall comply with the hygiene requirements.

68. When utilising a helicopter the following requirements shall be complied with:

68.1. the helicopter decks at workplaces shall be sufficiently large and located so as to provide an opportunity to use the helicopter in the most severe conditions in which the helicopter can operate;

68.2. the helicopter deck shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the intended work;

68.3. the equipment required in case of an accident of the helicopter shall be provided and it shall be kept in the immediate vicinity of the helicopter landing area; and

68.4. on platforms where the employees reside, a sufficient number of employees trained on how to act in case of emergency shall be present on the helicopter deck during helicopter movements.

69. Safety and stability requirements for location of platforms at sea shall be as follows:

69.1. while platforms are at sea all the necessary measures shall be taken in order to ensure the safety and health protection of employees in the extraction of minerals in using the drilling method;

69.2. the preparatory operations for the positioning of platforms shall be performed so as to ensure stability and safety thereof; and

69.3. the equipment and procedures in performing the activities referred to in Sub-paragraph 69.1 of these Regulations shall be such so as to reduce the risk to employees in the extraction of minerals by using the drilling method taking in normal conditions and emergency situations.

VI. Additional Labour Protection Requirements for Surface Extraction of Minerals

70. An employer shall provide that all measures, which have been taken to provide the safety and health protection of employees in normal conditions and emergency situations, are entered in the plan.

71. The plan, if necessary, shall be updated and it shall be available when performing an inspection at the workplace.

72. The work shall be performed and organised taking into account the indications in the plan regarding possible rock falls and slips.

73. Prior to the performance of work it shall be ascertained that the characteristics of the place of mineral resource extraction and the height and slope of the extraction surface complies with the nature, stability of the rocks, work methods and the nature of the mechanisms used.

74. Transportation roads shall be sufficiently stable, constructed, organised and maintained so as the equipment and vehicles can be moved freely. The road slopes shall be stable and without overhangs.

75. Before commencing or the restarting of work the density of the surface or the possibility of rock or stone falls or slopes from surfaces located above the work zone or transportation roads shall be examined. If necessary, the surfaces shall be levelled out.

76. The surface of a quarry and spoil heaps shall be utilised so as not to cause instability.

VII. Additional Labour Protection Requirements for Underground Extraction of Minerals

77. As regards the underground extraction of minerals the requirements referred to in Paragraphs 70, 71 and 72 of these Regulations shall be complied with.

78. An employer shall ensure the development of mine plans in scale, which creates a clear conception regarding the traffic routes, zones of extraction of the minerals, as well as other characteristic places that may have an impact on the work process and health and safety of employees.

79. The mine plans shall be freely accessible at the workplace, they shall be regularly updated and stored as long as it is necessary for safety reasons.

80. All mines shall be ensured with two or more separate exits to the surface. The exits shall be safe and freely accessible to the underground employees.

81. If, in using a mine exit, elevated physical effort is required, exits shall be equipped with accessible mechanical devices for the lifting or movement of people. Such devices shall be arranged and utilised in accordance with written instructions.

82. Mines, in which underground work is performed, shall be arranged, utilised, equipped and maintained so that employees can work therein and move with a minimum risk to their safety and health.

83. The traffic routes shall be marked with direction instructions so that employees can easily find the way (to orient themselves) in the mine.

84. Vehicles shall be equipped, utilised and maintained so as to ensure the safety and health protection of the drivers, users thereof and other persons who are in the vicinity.

85. Supports shall be provided as soon as possible after the termination of the excavation, except in cases where the ground is sufficiently stable and does not create a risk to the safety and health of the employees. The supports shall be installed in accordance with the plan and written instructions.

86. Mines accessible to employees shall be regularly inspected for ground stability and supports shall be maintained accordingly.

87. The requirements for the ventilation of mines shall be as follows:

87.1. appropriate ventilation shall be ensured in all parts of the mine where employees may have access;

87.2. continuous ventilation shall be provided with an adequate safety margin in order to:

87.2.1. maintain an atmosphere of the work environment, which is not harmful to health;

87.2.2. control the risk caused by an explosive environment and dust;

87.2.3. ensure adequate working conditions while work is in progress, taking into account the working methods being used and the physical load of the employees;

87.3. if it is not possible to ensure the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 87.2 of these Regulations by using natural ventilation, a stable and continuous mechanical ventilation system shall be installed;

87.4. a ventilation control system, which operates without interruption and automatically indicates disturbances in the operation of the ventilation system, shall be installed;

87.5. the parameters of operation of the ventilation system shall be inspected regularly, but not less than once a year and the results of inspections shall be documented; and

87.6. a plan of the ventilation system, which contains the most essential information regarding the ventilation system, shall be developed. The ventilation plan shall be revised regularly, but not less than once a year and, if necessary, renewed. The ventilation plan shall be stored at an accessible place in the workplace.

88. Requirements for gas mines (mines, in which firedamp is released in such an amount, which may cause an explosive environment) shall be as follows:

88.1. the main ventilation shall be provided with a mechanical ventilation system;

88.2. the work shall be performed, taking into account gas releases and ensuring measures, which reduce the risk created by gas to the safety and health of employees to the minimum;

88.3. auxiliary ventilation shall be limited by using it only in development and rescue work and in places where there is a direct access to the main ventilation current;

88.4. it is allowed to use auxiliary ventilation systems in production mines only in such cases if appropriate additional measures are taken in order to ensure the safety and health protection of employees;

88.5. in addition to the measurement referred to in Sub-paragraph 87.5 of these Regulations firedamp shall also be inspected;

88.6. when required in accordance with the plan, firedamp levels shall be continuously monitored in return airways between production units, as well as at the head ends of the deepest ends of mechanised mines, using mechanised extraction or underwinning means;

88.7. only explosives and devices intended specifically for gas mines shall be used;

88.8. smoking, as well as the presence of tobacco and other subjects, which may produce fire ignition, is prohibited in mines; and

88.9. flame cutting, welding and other similar operations are allowed only in exceptional cases and in performing measures in order to ensure the safety and health protection of employees.

89. The requirements for mines containing flammable dust shall be as follows:

89.1. mines shall be considered explosive, except cases where the plan includes a note that none of the seams used contains dust, which may cause an explosion;

89.2. only explosives and devices, which are specifically intended for mines containing flammable dust, shall be used;

89.3. smoking, as well as the presence of tobacco and other subjects, which may produce fire ignition, is prohibited in mines; and

89.4. flame cutting, welding and other similar operations are allowed only in exceptional cases and in performing measures in order to ensure the safety and health protection of employees;

89.5. the necessary measures shall be performed in order to remove, neutralise or collect explosive dust, to reduce deposits thereof; and

89.6. the propagation of explosive dust and firedamp if it may cause or promote an explosion shall be limited by installing a system of explosion barriers. The arrangement of such systems of explosion barriers shall be indicated in a document, which is periodically updated and stored at the workplace.

90. In zones susceptible to gas outbursts, rockbursts or water inrushes, such an operating plan shall be developed and implemented as to ensure, as far as possible, a safe performance of work and the safety and health protection of employees.

91. Measures shall be taken in order to identify the zones referred to in Paragraph 90 of these Regulations, to ensure the protection of the employees in mines, which have access to such zones or which traverse such zones, as well as to ensure the control of risk.

92. The requirements for protection against fire, combustion and heating shall be as follows:

92.1. measures shall be taken in order to prevent a spontaneous combustion and, if such has occurred, to detect it in due time;

92.2. flammable substances shall be present in mines only in the amount necessary;

92.3. if it is necessary to use hydraulic fluids (fluids for the transmission of hydrostatic and hydrokinetic mechanical energy) fluids which are difficult to ignite shall be, as far as possible, used in order to avoid the risk of fire and the spread thereof;

92.4. the hydraulic fluids shall comply with specifications and test conditions relating to the fire resistance and hygiene requirements; and

92.5. if hydraulic fluids are used, which do not comply with the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 92.4 of these Regulations, additional safety measures shall be taken in order to avoid the risk of fire and the spread thereof.

93. Where necessary, employees shall be provided with individual respiratory protection devices so that the employees can evacuate safely. Such devices shall be permanently and easily accessible at the workplace, they shall be regularly examined and in working order. Employees shall be trained in the use of the referred to protection devices.

94. Workplaces shall be equipped with an artificial lighting appropriate for the safety and health protection of employees. Employees shall be ensured with individual lighting devices.

95. Lighting devices shall be placed so that employees are protected from the risk of accidents and occupational diseases, which are related to the lighting.

96. Information regarding which employees are under ground shall be permanently available.

97. An employer shall establish rescue units, which perform the appropriate activities in emergency situations quickly and efficiently.

98. In order to operate in any location of underground extraction of minerals, employees who are trained in rescue work shall be appointed to the rescue unit, and such unit shall be ensured with the appropriate rescue devices.

VIII. Closing Provision

99. Cabinet Regulation No. 253 of 25 June 2002, Labour Protection Requirements for Investigation and Extraction of Minerals (Latvijas Vēstnesis, 2002, No. 96) is repealed.

Informative Reference to European Union Directives

These Regulations contain legal norms arising from:

1) Council Directive 92/91/EEC of 3 November 1992 concerning the minimum requirements for improving the safety and health protection of workers in the mineral-extracting industries through drilling; and

2) Council Directive 92/104/EEC of 3 December 1992 on the minimum requirements for improving the safety and health protection of workers in surface and underground mineral-extracting industries.

Acting for the Prime Minister,
Minister for Health G. Bērziņš

Minister for Welfare D. Staķe


Translation © 2006 Tulkošanas un terminoloģijas centrs (Translation and Terminology Centre)

 
Document information
Title: Darba aizsardzības prasības derīgo izrakteņu ieguvē Status:
In force
in force
Issuer: Cabinet of Ministers Type: regulation Document number: 150Adoption: 21.02.2006.Entry into force: 25.02.2006.Publication: Latvijas Vēstnesis, 33, 24.02.2006.
Language:
LVEN
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