Commencement of new exposure standards for coal dust and diesel particulate matter

On 1 February 2021 both the new worker exposure standards for respirable coal dust (1.5mg/m³ of air) and diesel particulate matter (0.1mg/m³ measured as sub-micron elemental carbon) will commence.
 
For further information visit our web page on airborne contaminants.

Regulator Portal updates

Following the introduction of the Mining Act activities to the Regulator Portal we have developed new styling and layout features for the portal which will be effective from Monday 25 January 2021. Notable changes will include a new portal landing page and activities separated based on business needs.

Avoiding heat stress

Workers who are exposed to heat are at risk of developing heat stress, which can lead to more life-threatening conditions. Prevention of heat stress is best accomplished through proper planning and preparation, and by using common sense.

Click below for additional information and guidance material including our report on heat stress and heat stress control plan.

Expressions of interest for independent members

Expressions of interest are sought from suitably qualified people for consideration for appointment as independent members for the following two separate representative bodies:

• NSW Mine Safety Advisory Council
• Mining and Petroleum Competence Board

Reminder: Certificate of competence briefing session – deputy

An additional online candidate briefing session for underground coal mine deputy certificate of competence applicants will be held on Friday 5 February 2021.

The online session will run from 10am to 12pm and will help prospective candidates understand how to apply and undertake the certificate of competence exams in 2021.
There will be an opportunity to ask questions. The session will also be recorded and published on our website.

You must register to attend the session.
Registrations close 2 February 2021.

November 2020 monthly business activities report published

In case you missed it...

• October 2020 Monthly Business Activities Report
• 2020 Small mines and quarries health and safety roadshow presentations

Updates to key guidance material

Safe Work Australia has updated the following key guidance documents for the model Work Health and Safety laws:

• Model Work Health and Safety Regulation explanatory statement
• What is a person conducting a business or undertaking

Guide to inspecting and maintaining elevating work platforms

Safe Work Australia has published new guidance for inspecting and maintaining elevating work platforms.

Australian Workers’ Compensation Statistics 2018-19 now available

The Australian Workers’ Compensation Statistics 2018-19 report provides detailed statistics about workers’ compensations claims in Australia, including data by sex, age, occupation and industry.
To find out key findings and other interesting statistics, read the full report on the Safe Work Australia website.

Model WHS Act comparison table now available

Safe Work Australia has published a table comparing the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and the WHS Acts adopted by the jurisdictions with harmonised laws.