Section 43.19. Shaft protection

(a) During shaft sinking operations the tops of all shafts shall be guarded by a standard rail and standard toeboard. The rail and toeboard may be provided with the necessary gates to give access to the shaft, but the gates shall be closed when access to the shaft is not necessary.

(b) If there is danger to persons from material falling into the shaft during shaft sinking operations, shaft doors opening outward or upward shall be installed to prevent any material from falling into the shaft. The doors shall be closed except when opened to permit the passage of a bucket, skip, material or men.

(c) When cages are installed in shafts, automatic gates shall be used at the top landings. All landings shall be provided with a fence and gate, the members of which shall be no more than 4 inches apart and no more than 5 feet high. The gates at such landings shall not be more than 12 inches from the openings, and shall be kept closed at all times except when cages are being loaded or unloaded.

(d) Means for blocking cars shall be provided at all landings.