Safety audit findings a wake up call to industry

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said early findings from the first of a series of mine safety audits were a wake up call for the mining industry.

Last month, the Minister instructed the Mines Inspectorate to undertake a series of targeted safety audits at a number of coal and metalliferous mines across Queensland.

Mines Inspectors visited the mines, unannounced, to carry out the audits.

Interim findings have been sent to a number of mines for action.

“The sole purpose of the audits was to boost safety. It’s not a naming and shaming exercise.

“Some of the early findings hang a lantern on serious safety issues which is exactly what they were designed to do,” Mr Wilson said.

“Now it’s up to the mining companies to take action. If they fail to act, they will face the full consequences,” Mr Wilson said.

“Mining is hazardous and that’s why vigilance must be the highest priority on every shift at every mine.

“While mine operators, employers and workers are responsible for safety and health on the job, I’m determined that the Mines Inspectorate will continue to support the industry operating safely.

“We have one of the best mine safety records in the world and it’s in everyone’s best interests to keep it that way. There is absolutely no room for complacency.

“We have the best mine safety legislation in Australia. But it must continue to be strongly enforced mine by mine, employer by employer, worker by worker.

“Those responsible for safety must fully play their part to ensure they never lose focus,” he said.

Since being appointed, the Minister has held regular meetings with key stakeholders – the Queensland Resources Council, mining companies and unions.

“We’ve had frank discussions around the table. They raised legitimate concerns with me and I took them on board,” Mr Wilson said.

One of the unions’ concerns related to the Queensland Mines and Quarries Safety Performance and Health Report, an annual report on safety statistics in the industry.

“They felt that some of the statistics in the report did not accurately reflect the number of safety incidents in some mines.

“As a result I’ve asked for an independent review of the report by respected mine safety specialists,” he said.

The Minister has also reinforced the role of the Advisory Councils that report to him on mine safety matters.

“I want to bring all the key players together – mines inspectors, unions and mining companies. It’s a forum where their respective views, concerns and ideas can be heard,” he said.

The Minister said the unannounced safety audits would continue to be carried out at selected mines across the state over several months.

“More safety issues may emerge from the audits. That’s why they are being carried out – to find faults, and for mining companies to fix them.

“Nothing is more important than the safety of the men and women who work in our mining industry,” he said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819