Regulator joins Mining Exploration and Geoscience group

On 1 June, the Resource Regulator joined an expanded Mining Exploration and Geoscience group within the Department of Regional NSW. This change was a positive step to help us work towards making NSW the number one destination for mining investment in Australia, whilst continuing to ensure strong and independent regulation of safety and the environment.

The Regulator will continue to undertake its frontline compliance and enforcement functions without change. Importantly, there will continue to be clear separation from the industry development functions of the Group and the compliance and enforcement functions of the Regulator. In addition to these functions, the Regulator will also take on responsibility for the Legacy Mines Program. The NSW Government has recently committed more than $100 million to this program and this change will align our expertise around mine rehabilitation and risk management in the one area.

Garvin Burns is currently acting in the Executive Director role and Leigh Nicholls is acting in the Chief Inspector role. 

Key compliance priorities updated

We have published the July - December 2021 Compliance priorities which sets out the key compliance priorities for the next six months.

Work health and safety reports can now be submitted online 

Work health and safety reports for the period 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 are now available on the Regulator Portal for mine operators to submit.

Enforceable undertakings accepted 

We accepted enforceable undertakings from Hi-Quality Waste Management Pty Ltd (operator of Windellama Clay Mine near Goulburn) and Hi-Quality Quarry (NSW) Pty Ltd (operator of Kemps Creek Central Shale Mine near Penrith) following an investigation into alleged mining without an authorisation.

Early bird prices close tomorrow

Join us for the 30th annual Mechanical Engineering Safety Seminar (11-12 August) at the Crowne Plaza, Hunter Valley. This two-day seminar will feature presentations on a broad range of topics including: incidents and new developments at mines, functional safety, battery electric vehicles, autonomous mining incidents, hydrogen fuel cell conversion, and advanced manufacturing. Speakers include Rob Cunningham (Northparkes Mine), Mark Fogarty (Safe for Engineering), engineers from NSW mines, and industry experts from WA to the UK. 
For more information visit our seminars webpage and secure your ticket before they sell out.
The early bird discounted rate ends at 11:59 pm Friday 9 July 2021.

EESS 2021 - seeking presenters... last call

We are seeking experienced and enthusiastic presenters for the 30th annual Electrical Engineering Safety Seminar to be held 10-11 November 2021 at the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley.
Submissions close 16 July 2021.

Safe Work Australia's Data Improvement Project

Safe Work Australia collects, analyses and publishes data and information on work health and safety and workers’ compensation. They would like to hear from you regarding their current suite of data products.

Learn about the latest evidence on preventing musculoskeletal disorders 

Safe Work Australia has published four new videos showcasing the latest evidence and systems thinking to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Occupational lung disease campaign resources available 

Industry-specific resources supporting Safe Work Australia's campaign, Clean Air. Clear Lungs, are available to help raise awareness in your workplace. The resources include information sheets, check lists and case studies, as well as animations, infographics, and translated materials.

In case you missed it...

• Business Activity Report - May 2021
• Guide - How to submit work health and safety reports
• Examination booklet - Deputy of underground coal mines
• Guide: Reporting an explosives incident
• Examiner's report - Mining engineering manager of underground mines other than coal mines certificate of competence (Feb - May 2021)
• Examiner's report - Underground mine supervisor of underground mines other than coal mines Certificate of competence (November 2020)
• Vehicle Incidents - Heading in the Wrong Direction
• Fact sheet - Planned Inspection Program - Fire or Explosion - Mechanical – Surface/underground metalliferous mines and large quarries
• Examiner's report - Underground mine supervisor of underground mines other than coal mines certificate of competence (May 2021)
• Gazette - Notice of other criteria in respect of statutory functions (South Australian certificates of competence)