Whenever loss of life occurs or whenever the lives of persons employed in a mine or at a colliery are in danger from any accident, the inspector of mines shall visit the scene of the accident as soon as possible thereafter and offer such suggestions, as, in his judgment, shall be necessary to protect the lives and secure the safety of the persons employed. In case of death from such accident, and after examination he finds it necessary that a coroner's inquest shall be held, he shall notify the coroner to hold such inquest without delay, and if no such inquest be held by the coroner within twenty-four hours after such notice, the inspector shall institute a further and fuller examination of such accident, and for this purpose he shall have power to compel the attendance of witnesses at such examination and to administer oaths and affirmations to persons testifying thereat. The inspector shall make a record of all such investigations and accidents, which record shall be preserved in his office. The cost of such investigation shall be paid by the county in which the accident occurred in like manner as costs of inquests held by coroners or justices of the peace¹ are now paid.