New coal mine health and safety legislation kicks off

A new safety regime implemented under a theme of Safety First will give the NSW coal mining industry the framework to improve mine safety performance.

The NSW Government has set a goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries for the State’s mining industry.

Coal mine operators will begin implementing new measures to improve safety performance following the commencement of the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act and the Coal Mine Health and Safety Regulation today.

There has been a significant level of industry interest in the new safety legislation with almost 1400 people attending information seminars at Newcastle, Wollongong, Lithgow and Singleton last week.

The NSW Minerals Council and the Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union have been closely involved, helping to frame the new safety requirements.

The new regulatory regime is based on the principles of risk management and consultation. It supports and encourages coal operators and contractors to plan to ensure injury doesn’t occur and to have robust systems in place for this hazardous industry.

The NSW coal mining industry has achieved significant improvements in safety in recent years and this new safety legislation will provide the platform for continued improvement.

The new legislative arrangements place duties on colliery holders, coal operators, contractors and employees - everyone involved in the coal mining industry. Transitional arrangements will help ensure there is a phased-in and smooth implementation during the next six months.

This new legislation will replace the Coal Mines Regulation Act 1982 and associated regulations, and complement the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries is assisting industry with the implementation of the new legislation.

Copies of the new legislation and supporting documentation are available on the NSW DPI Mine Safety website at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/minerals/safety/legislation