Which of the following actions can an inspector or inspection officer perform after entering a coal mine?

An inspector or inspection officer has specific responsibilities and powers when entering a coal mine, particularly focused on ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. The ability to inspect and photograph any part of the mine is crucial for the inspector to thoroughly assess working conditions, safety practices, and adherence to mining laws. This authority enables the inspector to document evidence of any violations or hazards, make informed assessments about compliance, and ultimately work towards improving safety standards within the mine.

Ordering all operations to cease immediately may seem necessary in some situations, but it's not typically within an inspector's purview to halt operations outright unless there is an imminent threat to health and safety. Similarly, the authorization of new mining projects or negotiation of contracts with mining companies falls outside the role of an inspection officer, as these tasks involve executive or contractual authority that inspectors do not possess. Their function is limited to oversight and compliance enforcement rather than project authorization or contract negotiation.