(225 ILCS 705/19.09) (from Ch. 96 1/2, par. 1909)

Sec. 19.09. The escapement shaft or opening or communication with a contiguous mine shall be constructed in connection with every seam of coal working in such mine, and all passageways communicating with the escapement shaft or place of exit from the main hauling ways to said place of exit shall be maintained free of obstruction not less than 5 feet in height, or the height of the coal seam, and not less than 5 feet in width, or of sufficient width to permit the passage of men with stretchers. Such passageways must be so graded and drained that it will be impossible for water to accumulate in any depression or dip of the same in quantities sufficient to obstruct the free and safe passage of men. No passageway to an escapement shaft shall pass through a stable. At all points where the passageway to the escapement shaft or other place of exit is intersected by other roadways or entries, conspicuous signboards shall be placed indicating the direction it is necessary to take in order to reach such place of exit. New shafts and partitions therein shall be fireproof. Buntons and guides may be of wood.

(Source: Laws 1955, p. 2012.)