1. (a) With the governor's approval, the commissioner of labor shall appoint a director of the bureau of mines and mine safety created under IC 22-1-1-4 (1) who must have the following qualifications:

   1. (1) Be a citizen of the United States and a resident of Indiana.
   2. (2) Have at least four (4) years experience in underground coal mines.
   3. (3) Hold an Indiana mine foreman certificate.

   4. (4) Possess a practical knowledge of:

      1. (A) the different systems of working and ventilating coal mines;
      2. (B) the nature, chemistry, detection, and control of noxious, poisonous, and explosive gases;
      3. (C) the dangers incident to blasting and the prevention of these dangers;
      4. (D) the application of electricity in mining operations;
      5. (E) the methods for preventing mine fires and gas or dust explosions;
      6. (F) the methods for controlling and extinguishing mine fires;
      7. (G) the methods of rescue and recovery work following mine disasters; and
      8. (H) the mining laws of this state.
2. (b) The director may not be an owner or part owner of a coal mine or coal mining company while serving as director.
3. (c) The director shall serve for a four (4) year term. However, the director serves at the pleasure of the governor.
4. (d) The director is entitled to receive an annual salary to be fixed by the commissioner of labor with the approval of the governor.

As added by P.L.37-1985, SEC.46. Amended by P.L.144-1988, SEC.1; P.L.215-1989, SEC.4; P.L.35-2007, SEC.8.