Mine emergency response skills put to the test

The rescue skills of Queensland’s mines inspectors and emergency services have been put to the test in an emergency response exercise at the Xstrata Newlands underground coal mine, west of Mackay.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said the rescue exercise at Newlands tested the response skills of mine staff and emergency services.

Minister Wilson said senior officers from the Mines Inspectorate and coal industry experts took part in a rescue scenario on Friday to test their capabilities in the event of a major mining incident.

“The rescue scenario involved a loaded fuel tanker with ‘faulty brakes’ being driven down a ramp at the mine. The tanker veers out of control, crashes into an open pit and catches fire,” Mr Wilson said.

“Smoke and noxious gases then enter the underground workings,” he said.

“Underground miners have to find their own way out, while those above ground activate the emergency response and deal with the burning fuel tanker.”

Mr Wilson said the department conducted a major exercise at a different underground coal mine every year.

“The lessons learnt from these exercises help ensure Queensland maintains its high standard of mining health and safety,” Mr Wilson said.

The emergency rescue exercises follow recommendations from the Warden’s Inquiry Report into the Moura No 2 coal mine disaster.

The report recommended an emergency response exercise be conducted annually at an underground coal mine to test internal emergency response systems in mines.

A full report into the rescue exercise will be made available to interested parties.

Media Inquiries: Minister’s Office 3225 1819