In all mines where electricity is, used as a part of the system, power or means of mining and procuring the coal or other mineral therefrom, the owners, or operators thereof shall cause all wires conducting electricity in and about said mines, to be carefully and thoroughly insulated or protected in a safe manner, so that the persons or animals coming in contact therewith, shall not be injured; all wires as aforesaid shall either be thoroughly insulated or placed where persons employed in or about the mines cannot come in contact therewith, or shall be covered, protected or shielded in a safe manner so as to prevent any injuries or accidents therefrom to those in or about the mines.
R.L.1910, § 3977.