Inspector of Coal and Hydrocarbon Mines

Utah law required the state mine inspector to quarterly examine Utah coal mines and to an nually inform the governor on all matters relating to mine safety. If is was determined that unsafe conditions existed, the governor would give the mine owner written notice that he must correct the problem or close the mine. Mine bosses were required to immediately report any serious accident to the mine inspector, who was then requrie to go to the scene as quickly as possible. The inspector was to give directions, as necessary, for future safety, investigate the accident and make a report. After 905, the mine inspector was requied to be on the examining board which gratned certification for mine bosses and fire bosses. The mine inspector was not required to inspect mines which employed fewer than six ful time employees, nor did his jurisdiction extend to metal mines.

Coal mine inspectors were appointed by the governor with approval of the legislature. Mine inspectors were expected to devote full time to the discharge of their duty, and were required to have a thorough knowledge of mining systems and at least five years practical experience. Gomer Thomas was coal mines inspector from April 1896 to April 1907, and John E. Pettit was inspector from May 1907 to March 1917.

Coal mine inspectors were assisted by a deputy inspector and possibly a clerk. In March 1917, the State Legislature created the Industrial Commission (UTSVH00525-A), and in so doing, abolished the office of coal mine inspector. Responsibilities relating to mine safety were thereafter performed by the commission.