Which of the following is a requirement for an escape way?

The requirement that an escape way must be marked clearly and maintained regularly is essential for ensuring safety in a mining environment. This marking is crucial so that personnel can easily identify the escape route during emergencies, such as fires or cave-ins, when panic can ensue. Regular maintenance ensures that the escape ways remain unobstructed and functional, which is critical in high-stress situations where every second counts.

Clear signage and upkeep of these routes help avoid confusion and facilitate a faster response and evacuation. This is particularly important in the often chaotic circumstances that arise during emergencies. The focus on accessibility and visibility underscores the legal and regulatory obligations to protect workers' safety and provide a reliable exit path.

The other options do not align with safety principles. For instance, having an escape way open only to supervisors would defeat the purpose of providing immediate access to all personnel who might need to evacuate. Similarly, locating the escape way far from machinery may not be practical or necessary, as proximity may mean the escape route is just as easily accessible in an emergency.