What is the requirement for fire protection near water pumps?

The requirement for fire protection near water pumps stipulates that two five-pound or one ten-pound fire extinguishers must be within twenty-five feet on the intake air side. This stipulation is designed to ensure that in the event of a fire, workers have immediate access to adequate fire suppression equipment.

Water pumps can pose certain fire hazards due to the electrical components, potential fuel leaks, or even overheating of machinery parts. By having fire extinguishers located so close, it allows miners to act swiftly, enhancing the safety environment in an underground context where access to help may be compromised and immediacy in response is crucial.

This requirement is part of broader safety regulations aimed at protecting workers in underground operations. Proper placement and the specific quantities of fire extinguishers ensure comprehensive coverage and facilitate quick action during emergencies, which is critical given the confined spaces and the complex nature of underground mine environments.