World draws on Queensland’s mine safety expertise

Queensland experts in underground coal mine fires and explosions are sharing their expert knowledge with mining countries around the world, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

Queensland’s Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station, known as Simtars, is seen as a world leader in mine safety and has been providing expert advice to some of the world’s biggest mine producing nations.

“North America, China and Brazil are taking the lead from safety and health experts based right here in Queensland. We’re sharing our expertise with the world,” Mr Wilson said.

Minister Wilson said that at recent top level safety talks in Nevada, Queensland experts shared their knowledge of mine fires and underground explosions.

“Our experts were able to provide information on oxygen deficiencies in underground coal mines, spontaneous combustion, gas monitoring and ways to prevent mine fires,” he said.

“We have one of the most sophisticated gas monitoring programs in the world and we want to share our knowledge and at the same time learn from overseas experiences.

“We will continue to collaborate with other countries on ways to improve safety because nothing is more important than the safety and health of the men and women who work in Queensland’s mines,” he said.

Media inquiries: Minister’s office 3224 7332.