Protecting mineworkers from the hazards of electricity

An Electrical Engineering Safety Seminar in Western Sydney will tomorrow discuss the hazards of working with electricity in the mining industry.

Around 160 mine workers, electrical engineers, union officials and mine suppliers are expected to attend the 16th Electrical Engineering Safety Seminar organised by the NSW Department of Primary Industries, being held over the next two days.

They will hear of the latest developments to protect mine workers from the hazards of electricity along with current legislative updates and the minimization and management of risks associated with arc blasts.

The seminar will focus on good electrical engineering practice and delivering good OH&S outcomes.

There will be a number of presentations by industry practitioners on solutions to electrical safety problems.

“Electricity plays a huge role in every aspect of today’s mining industry,” said Rob Regan, Department of Primary Industries, Director Mine Safety Operations.

“It powers underground mining machines, drives giant above ground drag-lines and even runs the small jack hammers used in one-person opal mines.

“Today’s mines could not operate without electricity but with its advantages come the hazards of potential electric shock or even electrocution.

The two day seminar runs this Wednesday and Thursday at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club.

"Reducing the risk of electrical accidents in our mines and quarries is an important part of protecting our workers," said Mr Regan.

The Department of Primary Industries has a specialist Mine Safety Branch, which is responsible among other things for electrical safety in our mines.

The NSW Government has instigated mandatory reporting of all electric shock incidents – not just those causing injury or burns requiring first aid.

Tomorrow’s seminar is being presented as part of the Department of Primary Industries continued safety awareness program.