New safety regulations for Queensland mine workers are set to come into effect next year to protect them from potentially dangerous methane gas levels.
The reforms will come into force from January 6 and place tighter controls on methane gas monitoring in underground coal mines.
It is part of one of Queensland’s most comprehensive health and safety reforms for the mining industry, which includes a $35 million commitment from the State Government to improve health and safety, a commitment to tighten controls on mine dust levels and a $1.21 million funding boost for black lung and silicosis screenings.
Also part of the reforms is the introduction of the Resources Safety and Health Queensland Bill 2019, statewide worksite safety reset sessions and more reforms to come in 2020.
Queensland Mines Minister Anthony Lynham said the prevention and early detection of methane related risks were vital to protect workers in Queensland’s nine operating underground coal mines.
“The health and safety of our mine workers is paramount to the Queensland Government,” Lynham said.
Related stories:
- Safety comes first with Hi Roller conveyors
- New inspectors and safety reset implemented on QLD mines
- Safety boost for Pilbara ore trains
“These reforms will put methane controls as yet another health and safety reform protecting our underground coal mine workers.”
The new regulations will also require additional methane monitors in our underground coal mines.
Lynham said the reforms had come after extensive consultation with key stakeholders including, unions, the Queensland Resources Council, site senior executives and, most importantly, workers on the coal face.
“The resources regulator will continue to work with underground coal mines to ensure these new measures are implemented as soon as possible,” he said.
“Our reforms have revolutionised the protection, detection and safety net for all current and former mine workers.
“We will remain vigilant in ensuring our reforms continue to have effect because all Queenslanders, especially our mine workers, deserve a safe workplace.”