16.12.2008

The Queensland Department of Mines and Energy (DME) has issued a safety alert to mines and quarries advising them to ensure procedures for adverse weather events are current and reflect site specific conditions.

The alert relates to a recent incident in which two mine workers suffered serious injuries and two others were trapped in a crib hut when the hut turned over and the exit door ended up face down preventing exit.

Adverse weather procedures should address significant and extended events such as cyclones or spontaneous and rapid events such as willy willy's, cock eyed bob's, dust devils and electrical storms. These weather conditions have been the cause of serious injuries at mine sites in recent times. Mine operators should ensure they have specific procedures for adverse weather that are reviewed regularly to ensure adequate controls for inherent risks localised to the operation.

As a rule of thumb, any moth of the year containing an ‘r’ can be considered to have the potential for adverse weather. i.e between September to April.