Magazines storing explosive materials must be located at least how many feet from shafts?

The correct answer is based on safety regulations concerning the storage of explosive materials in mining operations. Magazines storing explosives must be located at least 200 feet from mine shafts to ensure that, in the event of an incident or explosion, the risks to personnel and equipment are minimized. This distance helps to prevent potential hazards from affecting the main operations of the mine, where shafts are critical for transportation, ventilation, and access.

The 200-foot requirement is therefore crucial for maintaining a safe working environment. Safety regulations are designed from extensive research and historical data to mitigate the risks associated with explosive materials, and distance plays a vital role in this mitigation strategy. Keeping magazines at a safe distance ensures that any accidental detonation does not compromise the structural integrity of the mine shaft or endanger workers who may be in the vicinity.