LNP serious about addressing safety shortfalls – Last

Risks were being undertaken on mine sites which were undermining safety standards, LNP spokesman for Mines and Natural Resources Dale Last said. The Burdekin MLA has called for a review of practices in the wake of last week’s accident on Oaky Creek coal mine in which one man died and another seriously injured. The Burdekin electorate included much of the Bowen Basin whose coal mining communities Mr Last said were shaken by news of a fourth mine site death this year. He’s called for a wide-ranging inquiry saying there were practices that could be addressed in the short term. Related: Call for mine site deaths inquiry “I'm hearing that people on mine sites are still doing silly things, still taking risks that we need to make sure that everyone understands their role, understands that safety processes are in place for a reason, and there needs to be an adherence to that," Mr Last said. “So whether that means more mine inspections, more visits by safety regulators to ensure compliance, it's certainly something that we're serious about addressing and looking into if we get across the line in three weeks’ time.” The inquiry would highlight deficiencies in the system, Mr Last said. “There needs to be a complete and thorough review and an understanding of work practices,” he said. "Why are these incidents occurring? There seems to be still some shortcomings in the system. “Not only needs to be seen to be done, but it actually has to be done when it comes to mine safety. And if there are any shortcomings or if there are contractors, mining companies, whatever you want to call them, taking shortcuts, it needs to be identified. “It needs to be addressed. We need to have that confidence that those safety protocols and procedures are in place and are being adhered to. And I need to know, and as does the community need to know, the workers and their families.” An inquiry would look at how the workplace had changed including employment practices, Mr Last said. “We need to ensure that there is consistency across the entire workforce, whether you be permanent labour, hire contractors, whatever the case may be. “There needs to be that consistency and that rigor in that safety process to ensure that those standards are being maintained week in, week out, month in, month out, not up and down as a short-term sugar-hit after an incident. “It needs to be constant and it needs to be maintained." The Queensland election is on Saturday, October 26. You may also like: https://industryqld.com.au/liability-fears-restrict-mine-safety-development/

LNP serious about addressing safety shortfalls – Last

Industry Queensland

Related News

Daydream-2 gas well delivers for Elixir Energy

Major find beneath historical Dittmer gold workings

Promising gold recovery rates from Blue Mountain ore

Get access to breaking mining news, now.