'One spark can kill': RSHQ warns mines after reports of contraband - including vapes - in coal mines

Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) is issuing a serious warning to the state’s mine workers after a recent spate of reports of dangerous contraband entering underground coal mines.

The mine safety regulator has received six reports of contraband underground at different coal mines in Queensland in the past five months – including two alleged incidents of vapes being used underground.

Before 2026, no contraband incidents had been reported to RSHQ in underground Queensland coal mines for more than a decade.

RSHQ Chief Inspector of Coal Mines, Jacques le Roux, said the reports were a stark reminder of the dangers posed by ignition sources in underground coal mines.

"We are taking these reports very seriously and are reminding all Queensland mine workers and operators that one spark can kill," he said.

"Underground coal mines may contain methane gas and combustible coal dust. Any ignition source can trigger a fire or explosion. 

"They may be small but vapes and any unauthorised electronic device can have catastrophic consequences underground."

The state’s independent mining safety regulator has issued an industry-wide Safety Alert to coal mine workers and operators.   

Contraband items prohibited in underground coal mines include vapes, e-cigarettes, lighters, matches, smoking materials, mobile phones, smart watches, digital watches, electronic car keys and any device capable of creating a flame, spark or arc.  

"Protect yourself and protect your workmates. Taking contraband underground is not worth risking lives,” Mr le Roux said. 

Testing by RSHQ's scientific arm, SIMTARS, shows vapes can reach more than 250 degrees Celsius when used. 

“Many workers may underestimate the risk or think 'it’s only a vape' but the dangers are very real," SIMTARS Executive Director Kerri Melkersson said. 

"Our testing shows vapes can generate over 100 times the energy needed to ignite gas in an underground coal mine if they are damaged, overheat or short circuit.” 

Mr le Roux said any ignition source can claim lives.  

“Our message is clear: no vapes, no lighters and no contraband underground," he said. 

"RSHQ is reminding workers to check pockets, bags and personal belongings before going underground and we are also urging mine operators to review and verify the effectiveness of their contraband controls, search procedures and worker awareness programs." 

Investigations into reported incidents remain ongoing.

Read RSHQ’s industry Safety Alert.

Reports to RSHQ of contraband underground at Queensland coal mines:

• 2000-2011: 0 reports
• 2012: 1 report (smoking materials)
• 2013-2025: 0 reports
• 2026: 6 reports (2 vape, 2 unauthorised watches, 1 mobile, 1 smoking materials).

ENDS

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Media contact

RSHQ Media Team
0457 094 250
media@rshq.qld.gov.au