|
The Wran Mine Safety Review report is now complete.
The review, headed by former NSW Premier Neville Wran AC QC, was commissioned to provide a fresh, independent and innovative perspective on mine safety.
NSW has one of the best mine safety records in the world.
Until November 2003, the mining industry in New South Wales had a period of almost 12 months without a fatality and more than two years without fatalities in the coal industry.
The terms of reference (attached) provided the review panel with a clear framework to assess the changes made since the last independent review, and make recommendations for further improvement.
The panel received submissions from all related parties in formulating its recommendations and response for the Minister.
Ms Jan McClelland, former Director-General of the Department of Education and Training was appointed to the panel to assist Mr Wran, together with safety experts:
- Jim Joy, Professor of Mining Safety and Director of the Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre at the University of Queensland;
- Michael Quinlan, Professor of the School of Industrial Relations and Organisational Behaviour at the University of NSW; and
- Mr Peter Wilkinson, manager of the project to establish the new National Offshore Petroleum Safety Authority.
Safety is the Carr Government’s number one priority for the mining industry. Achievements to date include:
- New legislation – the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act 2002 and the Mine Health and Safety Act 2004;
- An overall improvement in safety performance shown in the major indicators of fatalities, serious injuries and lost time frequency rates (statistics attached);
- The establishment of the Mine Safety Advisory Council as the peak advisory group, including industry and employee representatives to help oversee the reform process;
- Compliance with International Labour Organisation conventions;
- Comprehensive training for Check Inspectors and employees – more than 3,000 people attended seminars and workshops last year alone.
- Information via website safety alerts and the quarterly newsletter Mine Safety Update;
- 958 safety assessments, including reviews, audits and inspections (30 percent unannounced);
- Major improvements in electrical and mechanical engineering standards;
- The Small Mine Campaign, which covered 308 mines, and development of the Small Mine Safety Management Kit; and
- The Lightning Ridge Mines Safety Course – 5,000 attendees. No fatalities recorded in the last seven years compared with one a year for the preceding 10 years.
The Government will work towards implementing recommendations in due course.
|
