Get ready now: warning for Queensland mines

Storm season begins in November and typically ends around April.

Flooding, flying debris and the management of explosives need to be taken into account when mines develop their emergency management plans.

Blasting and the use of explosives are more hazardous during storm season because wet conditions can cause a misfire.

RSHQ Chief Inspector of Mineral Mines and Quarries Hermann Fasching says having strategies in place before a storm hits can minimise risk of harm and help sites to recover quickly.

"Safety is at the forefront of everyone's minds after what has been a devastating year for industry with four fatalities already," said Mr Fasching.

"Now is the time to prioritise the health and safety of our workers against risks posed by Queensland's storm season, if you haven't done so already.

"Mine operators are ultimately responsible for storm management plans, but we are here to help and so we've shared tips and learnings with industry in a recent Safety Alert."

Lightning strikes also pose a major risk and so RSHQ's recommends sites do the following:

• Operations should cease when lightning is detected within an appropriately determined distance from the worksite.
• Vehicles should be driven to a designated safe lay-down area.
• Operators of vehicles should be transported to a safe shelter away from the equipment.
• Workers should not return to work until an "all clear' has been given.

Lightning strikes have also been known to cause tyre explosions at mine sites.

ENDS

Media contact

Amy McCann

0457 094 250

media@rshq.qld.gov.au