Australian Mining Sector Health and Safety regulations have greatly improved within the past several decades. Despite having proved effective in decreasing the rates of fatalities and workplace-related injuries, the mining industry still experiences more fatalities and severe injuries, annually, compared to other sectors of the economy, combined.
a good reference is https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
The Basic Risks Associated With Working In The Mining Industry
The mining industry is a dangerous profession, where workers can be severely injured by potential hazards and factors, such as:
- Musculoskeletal diseases that are induced by manual handling, cause mental and physical stress.
- being struck by moving things, machinery, or mining machinery
- falling, stumbling, and slipping.
- Working with a high-risk plant.
WHS in the mining sector is not governed by the Australian Federal Government; rather, it is regulated by the State and Territorial Governments.
What should be considered for health and safety at mining sites?
Mining sites can be dangerous. To mitigate these risks, mining companies need to implement comprehensive safety programs that address all of the possible hazards. Outlined below are common hazards found on or presented in a mining site, coupled with tips on how to minimise the risk of these dangers.
These points will assist
Prioritize Planning
Adhere to standards
Personal Protective Equipment
Maintenance
Visibility
Manual handling and lifting
Noise and vibration monitoring
Monitor temperatures
Monitor gas
make all areas safe from falls with barriers
eliminate all rock bursts
Assess fire risks
Electrical hazards
exposure to dust
personnel slips fall mitigation measures
Communication
Procedures to be assessed continually for shafts and areas collapsing
Training
Stress And Mental Problems:
Working on a mining site can be physically and emotionally taxing, particularly when employees work long shifts. Workers should prioritise hydrating, feeding and resting themselves, to avoid accidents. . Furthermore, the likelihood of mistakes decreases when employees are not under stress.
Inhaling in coal dust:
Inhaling coal dust increases the likelihood of developing several lung ailments, making it a common health concern for miners. To avoid overexposure to coal dust, workers should complete appropriate training and, where necessary, use respiratory protection.
Noise:
The constant noise exposure generates a significant danger for miners, given that loud drilling and other heavy Australian mining equipment are employed throughout the day. The loud noises created by mining machines have the potential to permanently damage workers’ ears, which can lead to hearing loss. It is the responsibility of mining firms to assess the danger and supply necessary soundproofing to prevent such matters.
UV Exposure
The harsh Australian heat can also negatively impact the health of mine site workers. The danger of getting skin cancer and eye impairment increases with extended direct exposure to strong UV radiation. To protect miners from damaging UV rays, businesses must offer personal protective equipment. A mining site should include artificial or natural shades to help protect workers from extreme UV exposure.
As reiterated previously, working on a mining site is more arduous, compared to other sectors. If the necessary safety measures are not followed, this may result in fatalities or seriously injured workers. Companies should invest in high-quality mining equipment and enhance safety protocols at mining sites.
With a vast selection of items to guarantee safety on mining sites, Australian Mining Products and Services is your leading producer of mining equipment. Whether you’re searching for a mining conveyor or other forms of heavy-duty industrial mining equipment, we are here to offer incredibly durable and cost-effective equipment, that is created with the intention of assuring safety at mining sites, whilst increasing and optimising operating efficiency.
You can visit our website at https://www.australianminingservices.com.au/, to browse through our extensive range of products. Alternatively, call us at 1300 241 620 for more information about mining equipment or about the industry.