Iemma Government backs plan to increase mine safety

Minister for Mineral Resources Ian Macdonald has welcomed the Mine Safety Advisory Council’s "Action Plan" to enhance mine safety across the State and its backing of recommendations made by the Wran Mine Safety Review.

He said the Digging Deeper consultancy project, conducted by Shaw Idea Pty Ltd, had completed its final report addressing the recommendations made by the Wran Review.

"This project highlighted what is really happening in the industry and addressing its recommendations will allow measures to be developed to improve industry health and safety for the State’s miners," Minister Macdonald said.

"Practical improvements can now be made in important areas like fatigue management and working hours through high-level commitment from Government agencies, industry and unions.

"I have asked the Council to implement this action plan as soon as possible and to work closely with industry because it is only through their committed action that positive change will be achieved.

"I am pleased to say the Digging Deeper final report has the full support of the Mine Safety Advisory Council, the primary body advising the NSW Government on occupational health and safety in the mining industry.

"I congratulate all on the high level of co-operation achieved on this issue and look forward to the implementation of the recommendations including the setting of a fatigue management standard and a program of education and assistance to industry."

Minister Macdonald said the project assessed the impact on OHS performance of:

• Production bonus payments and safety-based incentive schemes
• Fatigue management and working hours in the mining industry
• OHS management systems and consultation.

The Mine Safety Advisory Council comprises State Government representatives, mining employers and employees and independent experts in OHS.

The Wran Mine Safety Review recommendations were accepted in 2005 and their implementation is being overseen by the Mine Safety Advisory Council.

More information about the Digging Deeper project can be found at http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/minerals/safety/consultation/wran-consultancy-project