How often should on-shift examinations be conducted?

On-shift examinations should be conducted at least once every production shift to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations. This practice is essential in maintaining a safe working environment and identifying any potential hazards as they arise in real-time. By examining conditions during each shift, supervisors and foremen can promptly address issues and implement corrective measures, thereby minimizing risks to personnel and equipment. This regular oversight helps in promoting a culture of safety and accountability on-site, which is vital in surface mining operations where conditions can change significantly throughout the day.

The other options, while they may include valid points in certain contexts, do not provide the comprehensive coverage needed for continuous operations. Monthly examinations or only conducting checks when hazards are suspected can lead to undetected issues, while hourly checks during operations may be deemed excessive and impractical under normal circumstances. Therefore, conducting these examinations every shift strikes a balance that maximizes safety without overwhelming operational efficiency.