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PROP Best Practices

Lapse in Appropriations

For workplace safety and health, please call 800-321-6742; for mine safety and health, please call 800-746-1553; for Job Corps, please call 800-733-5627 and for Wage and Hour, please call 1-866-487-9243 (1 866-4-US-WAGE).  This website is currently not being updated due to the suspension of Federal government services. The last update to the site was 10/1/2025.  Updates to the site will start again when the Federal government resumes operations.

  • Always make a visual examination of your work area before testing or scaling the roof or ribs.
  • If hazardous conditions are observed, testing is not required—eliminate the condition as soon as possible.
  • If a hazard is not detected from your visual exam, move on to a sound and vibration test—don’t assume all hazards are visible.
  • If the roof or ribs are hazardous, support them or remove the hazard by pulling down the hazardous material—use a bar of suitable length and design.
  • Pull down material from a safe location – Pry up, Not Down!
  • Pay special attention to overhanging brows
  • Examine pillar ribs from all sides for cracks
  • Install supplemental supports when needed for additional protection
  • Communicate with the foreman and your co-workers when adverse roof or rib conditions are detected – share what you know, and ask what others have seen!
  • When bolting, position the ATRS and drill station canopy to maximize protection - especially in high construction areas like overcasts, belt drives and high fall areas
  • Follow the roof control plan, but remember it contains the minimum required support—changing conditions may require additional support.
  • When the roof is composed of rocks that are more prone to weathering, install more surface control coverage.
  • Keep your mind on the task being performed—avoid distractions.