(1)No person shall go into, or work in, or be allowed to go into or work in, a mine, other than the precincts of a mine occupied by an office building, canteen, creche, rest shelter, first aid room or any other building of a similar type, unless he wears a helmet of such type as may be approved by the Chief Inspector by a general or special order in writing:Provided that where the Chief Inspector is of the opinion that due to special circumstances it is not necessary or reasonably practicable for any person or class of persons going into, or working in, a mine to wear a helmet, he may, by a general or special order in writing and subject to such conditions specify therein, exempt such person or class of persons, from the operation of the provisions of this sub-regulation.(2)The helmet referred to in sub-regulation (1) shall be supplied free of charge, at intervals not exceeding three years or such other interval as the Chief Inspector may specify by a general or special order in writing by the owner, agent or manager of a mine, who shall at all times maintain a sufficient stock thereof in order to ensure immediate supply as and when need for the same arises :Provided that when a helmet is accidentally damaged during legitimate use, the owner, agent or manager shall immediately replace the damaged helmet free of cost.(3)Where a helmet is provided otherwise than as specified in this regulation, the supply shall be made on payment of full cost.
