MANAGERS of coal and metalliferous mining operations are invited to comment on proposed reforms to Queensland’s safety and health regime for mine workers.

The Natural Resources and Mines Minister Andrew Cripps MP seeks input and participation in industry forums.

Earlier today, Minister Cripps released for industry consultation the Queensland Mine Safety Framework Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS). It outlines options to amend

Queensland’s mine safety and health legislation, including by:

• Increasing the number of coal industry safety and health representatives from three to four.
• Clarifying the role of industry safety and health representatives.
• Requiring all mines to have a single safety and health management system that covers both company employees and contractors.
• Providing in legislation for key safety positions at mine sites and requiring those holding the positions to have a Board of Examiners competency certificate.
• Increasing stone dusting and water barrier requirements for underground coal operations to minimise further the risk of fire or explosion.
• Standardising the management of fatigue, drugs, alcohol and fitness for work across both the quarry and coal sector.
• Industry stakeholders have 60 days to lodge submissions about the issues outlined in the Queensland Mine Safety Framework Regulatory Impact Statement.

Submissions about the Queensland Mine Safety Framework Regulatory Impact Statement are due by 11 November 2013.

From 16 September 2013, the Department of Natural Resources and Mines will host a series of forums in Queensland mining communities to discuss the proposed reforms with managers and employees of coal and metalliferous mining operations.

The Regulatory Impact Statement, how to make a submission, and further information about the forums is available at: www.dnrm.qld.gov.au