What is the initial step when examining your workplace in a mine?

The initial step when examining your workplace in a mine is to visually look for loose rock or cracks in the roof. This is vital because the stability of the mine's roof directly affects miner safety; loose rock can fall, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. By conducting a visual inspection first, miners can identify immediate hazards that might compromise their safety or that of their coworkers.

The other options also represent important safety checks but are generally considered subsequent steps in the examination process. Noting if the bottom is heaving and ribs are spalling, checking timber maintenance, and ensuring that proper documentation like examiner initials is marked are all crucial for ongoing safety management and compliance within the mining environment. However, assessing the roof and the immediate conditions above should always be prioritized to prevent accidents from occurring as miners begin their work.