SAFETY AND HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE PAGE 4 COMMISSIONER'S CORNER
PAGE 6 PROGRESS ON THE NEW WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY LAWS
VOL. 3 NO. 2 SEPTEMBER 2021
PAGE 8 MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS SAFE WORK MONTH
ISSN 2651-9577
PAGE 16 REPORTING PSYCHOSOCIAL INJURIES IN THE RESOURCES SECTOR
Government of Western Australia
Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety
© State of Western Australia (Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety) 2021
LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS (FROM DMIRS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
Th!nkSafe is published by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). It is distributed free of charge to industry and interested members of the public.
Judy Abbott
Narelle McMahon
Andrew Ballam
Bill Mitchell
Lizzie Browne
Samira Mohamed
Gillian Carter
Ian Munns
Tse Yin Chang
Bec Naylor
Amy Douglas-Martens
Sally North
Caroline De Vaney
Tara Read
David Eyre
Mark Richardson
Tony Gray
Bryce Ridgeway
Valerie Hall
Gary Scott
Waeel Ilahi
Richard Sellers
Darren Kavanagh
Eve Speyers
Brian Knyn
Lin Stain
Justine McGillivray
Tracy Wynands
Reproduction of material from Th!nkSafe for wider distribution is encouraged and may be carried out subject to appropriate acknowledgement. Contact the editor for further information. Mention of proprietary products does not imply endorsement. Comments and contributions from readers are welcome, but the editor reserves the right to publish only those items that are considered to be constructive towards workplace safety and health. Reader contributions and correspondence should be addressed to: Th!nkSafe Editor Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety Locked Bag 100 EAST PERTH WA 6892 Enquiries: 08 9358 8153 Email: SafetyComms@dmirs.wa.gov.au This publication is available on request in other formats for people with special needs.
Government of Western Australia
COVER Western Australia’s 2021 Safe Work Month ‘Make a difference – speak up about health and safety’ is a virtual program of events.
The State of Western Australia supports and encourages the dissemination and exchange of its information. The copyright in this publication is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY) licence.
Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety
Safety Regulation Group Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety Locked Bag 100 EAST PERTH WA 6892 Telephone: + 61 8 9358 8001 Email: SafetyComms@dmirs.wa.gov.au Website: www.dmirs.wa.gov.au
@WorkSafeWA
@DMIRS_WA Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/subscribe
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Under this licence, with the exception of the Government of Western Australia Coat of Arms, the Department's logo, any material protected by a trademark or licence and where otherwise noted, you are free, without having to seek our permission, to use this publication in accordance with the licence terms. We request that you observe and retain any copyright or related notices that may accompany this material as part of the attribution. This is a requirement of the Creative Commons Licences. For more information on this licence, visit creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ legalcode
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IN THIS ISSUE
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Safe Work Month 2021:
Make a difference – speak up about health and safety This year’s Safe Work Month will feature on-demand videos with a focus on health and safety for both the mining industry and general workplaces. There will be a significant spotlight on the implementation of Western Australia’s Work Health and Safety Act 2020 with additional videos and live webinars.
More information on page 8
2 FROM THE DIRECTOR GENERAL
MENTALLY HEALTHY WORKPLACES
4 COMMISSIONER'S CORNER
16 Reporting psychosocial injuries in the resources sector
WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY LEGISLATION
HUMAN FACTORS
6 Progress on WA's new Work Health and Safety laws
18 Understanding human factors in major hazard safety
EVENT NEWS
HEALTH AND HYGIENE
8 Make a difference this Safe Work Month 10 2021 Work Health and Safety Excellence Awards
20 WorkSafe Silica Compliance Project
SAFETY AND HEALTH ALERTS AND GUIDANCE
DEPARTMENT NEWS
12 Focus on mines safety: Repeating the same mistakes 14 Inspectors provide assistance after Tropical Cyclone Seroja
FROM THE TOOLBOX
23 WorkSafe Plan recipients 24 Historic mine plans helping to mitigate risk
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FROM THE DIRECTOR GENERAL
WELCOME MESSAGE FROM RICHARD SELLERS, DIRECTOR GENERAL Since DMIRS was formed in 2017, I have watched the Department grow and strengthen its role in Western Australian workplaces and the community. Workplace health and safety remains a key priority for the Department, and this includes the mental health and wellbeing of the State’s workforce. Significant work is well underway within the Department as we move towards the implementation of WA’s new Work Health and Safety legislation – marking the State’s largest regulatory change in workplace health and safety since 1984. Within this time of change, we will continue our efforts to engage with stakeholders and deliver on our commitments. This includes the release for public comment of a draft code of practice for psychosocial hazards in the workplace and the recent revitalisation of SmartMove, our online safety education site targeting younger workers. We will also continue to develop best-practice educational tools, codes and guides to limit workplace incidents, create awareness and promote the benefits of a workplace culture where health and safety is a priority.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as Director General of the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS).
As our State’s workplace health and safety regulator, I thank every employer and employee for continuing to implement and follow the leading practices that underpin our aim to make Western Australian workplaces safe. Richard Sellers was formally appointed Director General on 31 May 2021. He has held a number of senior roles in the public sector including Director General of the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation; Director General of the Department of Transport; Commissioner for Main Roads WA; CEO of the Public Transport Authority and Director General of the Department of Mines and Petroleum.
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Government of Western Australia
Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety
Work health and safety laws are changing in Western Australia To assist WA workplaces prepare for the new work health and safety laws, the Department is developing a range of tools and resources that outline how the new laws will apply to businesses and workers. To keep up to date on the latest news about WA’s new work health and safety legislation visit the Department’s website. Learn more at www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/WHS
STAY INFORMED Subscribe to the Department's news alerts Follow us on social media Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety @DMIRS_WA @WorkSafeWA
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RSDAug21_1109
@WorkSafeWA
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COMMISSIONER'S CORNER
COMMISSIONER'S CORNER Sexual harassment and assault has been in the news recently, with the number of reported incidents growing across all industries. This type of workplace behaviour is simply unacceptable and, in addition to collaborative arrangements with other agencies, a number of measures are being put in place to help make workplaces safe from psychological and social hazards. The Commission for Occupational Safety and Health (the Commission) is made up of the main stakeholders in workplace safety and health in Western Australia (WA), and it has recognised that this is an extremely important issue. Since 2014, WA workplaces have operated under a code of practice on violence, aggression and bullying, but the Commission has made the decision to separate these into two codes – one dealing specifically with violence and aggression and the other with bullying and harassment. Public comment has been sought for both codes, all of which will be considered and the final versions agreed upon.
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The Commission is also seeking public comment on a code of practice on Psychosocial hazards in the workplace. This code is intended to provide practical guidance for workplaces where workers may be exposed to psychological and social hazards such as inappropriate behaviours, violence and aggression, fatigue, burnout, stress and trauma, all of which can be harmful to health. It is of vital importance to make managing psychosocial hazards a priority in workplaces, and everyone has a duty to do so. This can be a challenge, so a proactive approach is needed and consultation and communication are critical. Work continues towards the delivery of the new work health and safety laws, with preparations being made to bring almost all WA workplaces under a single Act in January 2022. The Work Health and Safety Act 2020 will replace the current Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984, the Mines Safety and Inspections Act 1994 and the safety aspects of three other Acts covering petroleum. Although the new laws are based on the national model laws, they have been tailored specifically to WA workplaces.
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COMMISSIONER'S CORNER
Important changes that will take place under the new laws include the inclusion of industrial manslaughter charges, the banning of insurance coverage for WHS penalties, the introduction of WHS undertakings as an alternative penalty and the introduction of the new term 'person conducting a business or undertaking' (PCBU). This last change will ensure that newer employment relationships will be included alongside the traditional employer-employee relationship. The new WHS Act has passed through Parliament, and the regulations that underpin the laws are in the process of being drafted. Once the regulations are approved, they will be gazetted and the new laws will be proclaimed and implemented. In preparation for the new WHS regime, policies, processes and procedures are being developed. Six working groups have been formed within WorkSafe to concentrate on the areas of prosecution and enforcement, regulation and compliance processes, online business systems, communications, training and licensing, and these groups are working hard to ensure a smooth transition to the new laws. The Department will assist in the administration of the new laws, including providing inspectors and other staff, to ensure compliance. As the holder of the independent statutory office of WorkSafe Commissioner, I will report directly to the Minister for Industrial Relations and be responsible for performing the functions and exercising the powers of the regulator under the new WHS Act. I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the health and safety of WA workers into the future.
The issue of silica in workplaces continues to be a serious concern. The National Dust Disease Taskforce recently completed its twoyear independent review of the systems in place for the prevention, identification and control of silicosis and other occupational dust diseases. The Taskforce’s final report contains seven recommendations on actions to be taken to improve worker health and safety where silica is present in workplaces. One of the recommendations of the report is that regulators are active in the area of silica safety for workers. Here in WA, considerable action has been taken in this area. WA is a world leader in health surveillance for silicosis, having now amended the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations to mandate low-dose high resolution CT scans for at-risk workers instead of the previous requirement for X-rays in assessing the lung health of workers. WorkSafe inspectors have also conducted widespread proactive inspections to identify at-risk workplaces and take any compliance action required. Silicosis is a severe and incurable disease so it is vital that all duty holders – including suppliers of silicacontaining products – play a part in preventing it. Some suppliers are currently developing materials with lower levels of silica, potentially providing an additional risk control option. I look forward to next year’s implementation of the Work Health and Safety legislation and the positive changes it will bring to the safety and health of WA workers.
Darren Kavanagh WorkSafe Commissioner
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WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY LEGISLATION
PROGRESS ON WA'S NEW WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY LAWS The work health and safety (WHS) reforms represent the most significant change to workplace health and safety laws in over 30 years, with new legislation bringing together all industries under one Act, the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WHS Act).
WA’s Work Health and Safety legislation is not expected to come into force until January 2022. This means that the current occupational, mines safety and petroleum safety legislation still applies.
On 11 March 2021, the State Government announced that it would enact three sets of WHS regulations, covering mines, petroleum, geothermal energy and general workplaces by January 2022.
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
The new laws will harmonise WA with other States and Territories (except Victoria), enabling businesses to comply with similar requirements in each State and Territory. However, some provisions have been tailored to suit WA workplaces.
The Department is developing systems and tools to implement the new WHS laws. This involves reviewing, changing and developing more than 3,000 documents and systems, including:
The Department and the Regulator (WorkSafe Commissioner) are gearing up for the implementation of the new laws. Detailed instructions for drafting the regulations have been provided to the Parliamentary Counsel’s Office, responsible for drafting the legislation, taking stakeholder feedback into account. Industry, unions and other stakeholders continue to provide advice on the implementation of the WHS regime through current advisory committees.
• • • •
Instructions have also been prepared to detail transitional arrangements, which will phase in some requirements over the next few years, providing industry with more time to comply.
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• • • • • • •
codes of practice policies and procedures forms and notices prosecution and enforcement processes notification and triaging processes online systems staff training courses licensing processes systems and forms guidance material communications (website pages, social media, publications, information sessions, etc.).
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WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY LEGISLATION
NEW WHS WEBPAGES – NOW LIVE!
Handy overview of the WHS Act
The Department has launched a number of new webpages covering the new work health and safety laws. The webpages will assist industry and general workplaces to prepare for the introduction of the legislation.
In addition, the Department, in consultation with the Regulator (WorkSafe Commissioner), has produced an Overview of Western Australia’s Work Health and Safety Act 2020 which provides guidance to help people understand their health and safety duties and rights at work, and is available on the webpages. It is important to note that the guide is not intended to replace the WHS Act.
The WHS webpages focus on the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WHS Act). Work is continuing on the proposed regulations and information will be added to the webpages as it becomes available.
Key features Topics covered: • key terms and definitions • roles and responsibilities • consultation and worker representation under WHS • key changes in relation to enforcement.
The Overview of Western Australia’s Work Health and Safety Act 2020 will be supported by a suite of interpretive guidelines, currently in development, which explain specific sections of the Act. They include: • the health and safety duty of an officer • the meaning of ‘person conducting a business or undertaking’ • how to determine what is reasonably practicable to meet a health and safety duty • discriminatory, coercive and misleading conduct • a guide to work health and safety for volunteer organisations • incident notification information sheet. Once finalised, any additional guidance materials will be made available on the webpages. To keep up-to-date with the latest information subscribe to the Department’s news alerts and follow us on social media. Learn more at www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/WHS
Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety @DMIRS_WA @WorkSafeWA @WorkSafeWA
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EVENT NEWS
MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS SAFE WORK MONTH Registrations are now open for October's Safe Work Month 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, last year the Department launched a virtual Safe Work Month which featured on-demand videos from our inspectors, along with live question and answer webinars. This way the Department could still safely deliver occupational health and safety messages. This year’s Safe Work Month will continue to feature on-demand videos with a focus on health and safety for both the mining industry and general workplaces. There will be a significant spotlight on the implementation of Western Australia’s Work Health and Safety Act 2020 with an additional nine on-demand videos and eight live webinars. Under the new legislation we all have the duty to report any dangerous incident that exposes a person to a serious health or safety risk. The theme 'Make a difference – speak up about health and safety' is a reminder that we all have the responsibility to look out for one another, speak up if you see an incident, and report it. Safety and health representatives, managers, supervisors, safety professionals, workers, students and anyone with an interest in how to make workplaces safer are encouraged to register to view the videos and participate in the webinars throughout October. We encourage you to share the experience and learnings. Safety leaders and inspectors from the Department are looking forward to sharing their experiences and knowledge with you. For more information or to register online visit wa.gov.au/government/safe-work-month
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Hear from safety leaders and inspectors on a range of topics in our on-demand videos including:
HEALTH AND SAFETY FOR GENERAL WORKPLACES • Mental health in the workplace • Participative safety and manual tasks • Psychological safety and inclusivity at work • Reporting violence and aggression in the workplace • WorkSafe WA: Investigation fatality statistics • WorkSafe WA Silica Compliance Project
HEALTH AND SAFETY FOR THE RESOURCES SECTOR • Mines Safety: How are we going? • Mentally healthy workplaces in the mining industry • Exploration safety: An operational imperative • Health and hygiene management plans status for 2021-22 • Setting the standard – Underground mine ventilation plans
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EVENT NEWS
Hear from safety leaders and inspectors on a range of topics in our on-demand videos including:
LATEST ON WA'S WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY LAWS • Message from the Minister for Industrial Relations: Update on WA’s new work health and safety laws • New work health and safety laws implemented in Western Australia • Work Health and Safety Act 2020 Duties • WHS: Compliance and enforcement approach • Work Health and Safety Act 2020 – Part 4 Authorisations • Work Health and Safety Regulations Chapters 1-5 • Work Health and Safety Regulations Chapters 6-11 • Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations and Mine Safety Management System • The new Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Operation Regulations – What will it mean for operators?
SIGN UP TO WATCH AND PARTICIPATE IN OUR LIVE WEBINARS • WHS and the WorkSafe Commissioner • Overview of Western Australia’s Work Health and Safety Act 2020 • Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2021 – Opportunities to ask questions • Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2021 – Opportunities to ask questions • Work Health and Safety (Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Operations) Regulations 2021 – Opportunities to ask questions • Health and safety representatives under the WHS laws • Asbestos and WHS – What you need to know • WHS Authorisations (licences, permits and registrations)
Plus hear from our State's WHS leaders • Message from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety’s Director General, Deputy Director General and WorkSafe Commissioner
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More information or to register online at wa.gov.au/government/ safe-work-month
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EVENT NEWS
2021 WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARDS THE DEPARTMENT WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE THE FINALISTS OF THE WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2021.
These awards recognise outstanding solutions and innovations to specific workplace health and safety problems in Western Australia. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 22 October 2021 at Optus Stadium.
WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY INVENTION OF THE YEAR Finalists in this category are recognised for the development of plant/equipment and/ or infrastructure to enhance health and safety: • BHP – Dash tools • BHP in partnership with Ausdrill, Sitech and Autorun – Automated sampling rock commander • Heat Trap Solar Pty Ltd – Safety shower recirculation technology • St John of God Subiaco Hospital – The SoterShoulder
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BEST SOLUTION TO A WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY RISK Finalists in this category are recognised for innovation, implementation and/or design of systems or procedures to improve health and safety: • AMCAP Distribution Centre – Safer delivery of maintenance parts through integrated kitting solutions • AngloGold Ashanti Australia – Hydraulic belt feeder retraction system • Metso Outotec – Erectable work platform • Monadelphous – SPMT Davit Arm • Q H & M Birt – Mitigating speed related mobile plant incidents • Rio Tinto – Reducing WHS exposure risks with IoT technology • Rio Tinto Iron Ore in partnership with United Forklift and Access Solutions and Otraco – Tyre handler safety solution • Work Management Solutions – WMSHealth app – Managing potential exposure and transmission of COVID-19 in the workplace
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EVENT NEWS
BEST WORKPLACE HEALTH AND WELLBEING INITIATIVE This category recognises an organisation’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of their workforce. The finalists are: • AECOM Australia Pty Ltd • Byrnecut – SAFE 360º • Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) – Wellbeing approach at CAHS – Encompassing the 5 pillars of health and 5 ways of wellbeing • CITIC Pacific Mining – SinoStory podcast series • City of Rockingham – Introduction of targeted mental health support • Mineral Resources Ltd – PCR COVID-19 screening program • Woodside Energy Ltd – Wellbeing initiative to support people, protect mental health and promote wellbeing
LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE AWARD This category recognises an organisation’s excellence in leadership in improving health and safety in the workplace. The finalists are: • Breight Group – Breight Education Training Centre • Chandler Macleod – We are all Safety Leaders: Merger of two historic Australian recruitment organisations • Clough – Major Accident Prevention (MAP) Program • Fastbrick Robotics (FBR) – FBR Hadrian X – Robotic bricklayer
SAFETY AND HEALTH REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR This category recognises individuals who, in their role as an elected safety and health representative, have made a significant contribution and a demonstrated difference to safety and health in the workplace. The finalists are: • Owen Ash – South32 • Bruce Atkinson – Department of Education • Aaron Bailey – Perth Airport • Garry Barnes – Corruption and Crime Commission (CCC) • Kurt Bauer – City of Rockingham • Garry Bronca – Kimberley Ports Authority • Naomi Elbrow – Woodside Energy Ltd
Everyone is welcome to attend the awards ceremony and celebrate the achievements and contributions made in the area of work health and safety. To reserve your spot, register online.
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SAFETY AND HEALTH ALERTS AND GUIDANCE
FOCUS ON MINES SAFETY: REPEATING THE SAME MISTAKES
Engaging with safety and health representatives
In the April 2021 edition of Th!nkSafe, the Department featured an article titled Four focus areas for Mines Safety highlighting specific areas of concern within industry identified by Mines Safety inspectors. These areas include: Hazardous manual tasks Is your site proactively managing hazards associated with manual tasks? Repeat hazard exposure Are hazards and risks being managed appropriately to prevent reoccurrence? Contractor management Is your site appropriately managing the health and safety of contractors? Mentally healthy workplaces Are psychosocial hazards and risk factors proactively managed?
Mines Safety inspectors are focusing on instances where workers have been repeatedly exposed to a workplace hazard – such as vehicles over edges. Inspectors will be investigating whether hazards have been suitably identified and understood, suitable methods of control are in place, and taking appropriate action where necessary.
REPEAT INCIDENTS: MOBILE PLANT FALLING INTO UNDERGROUND VOIDS Since April 2008, the Western Australian mining industry has suffered three fatalities as a result of manned load haul dump (LHD) machines1 falling into underground voids, or stopes. The latest fatality occurred in July 2020, when an LHD went over the edge of an open stope and fell approximately 25 metres. In this instance, the operator was preparing to build a safety bund near the stope edge. There have also been a number of near misses where mobile plant has gone over a stope edge, but the operator has survived. After each of these fatalities, the Department published significant incident reports (SIRs) to alert industry to the initial findings that led to each incident and recommended actions to prevent similar occurrences. Unfortunately, the appropriate controls have not been applied consistently within industry and these kinds of serious incidents continue to occur.
1 An LHD is also known as an underground loader or bogger
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SAFETY AND HEALTH ALERTS AND GUIDANCE
APPLYING CONTROLS Sites should apply the strongest hierarchy of control measure first, which involves eliminating exposure to hazards where possible. Where this is not possible, sites should minimise the risk by working through the hierarchy from most to least reliable measures. If the falling hazard is not able to be eliminated (e.g. by using an alternative mining method), then the operation needs to critically assess the type of mobile plant used near underground voids, with consideration given to readily available technology such as remote controlled equipment. Additional controls include developing safe systems of work to place physical barriers prior to the void creation, and to use appropriate visual markings, delineators and barricades to identify the void location. To help combat this issue, the Department is developing an appropriate audit tool to examine how this hazardous activity is conducted in underground operations, starting with the site’s policies and procedures and their application by the operator. Auditing is recognised as a systematic method to monitor, review and check whether a safe working environment is provided and maintained. After the tool is trialled at selected underground operations by Mines Safety inspectors, it will be made available to the rest of industry who will be encouraged to self-audit to determine whether they meet best practice principles in this area.
SIGNIFICANT INCIDENT REPORTS SIR No. 283 Manned loader falls into open stope – fatal accident SIR No. 265 Manned loader falling into an open stope SIR No. 234 Light vehicle driven partly over edge of open stope SIR No. 199 Manned loader drives into open stope – fatal accident SIR No. 149 Loader falling into an open stope – fatal accident
GUIDANCE AVAILABLE Frequently asked questions on self-auditing of mining activities – information sheet Vertical opening safety practice in underground mines – guideline
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SAFETY AND HEALTH ALERTS AND GUIDANCE
INSPECTORS PROVIDE ASSISTANCE AFTER TROPICAL CYCLONE SEROJA
Officers from the Department mounted a combined effort to provide assistance in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Seroja in April. Inspectors from WorkSafe and Building and Energy travelled to Kalbarri after the cyclone struck to play a part in making the town safe, particularly in relation to asbestos, electrical and gas hazards. A large number of government agencies were involved in the clean-up of the town, including the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), Australian Defence Force, WA Police, State Emergency Services, Western Power and Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. According to WorkSafe Inspector Valerie Hall, one of the most common concerns among Kalbarri residents was the risk posed by the asbestos that littered much of the town after the storm roared through. “Aside from the damage to properties, authorities and residents were most concerned about the pieces of asbestos littering the ground and roads of the town,” Inspector Hall said.
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Aside and r from the d e piece sidents w amage to s of a ere m prop e of th e tow sbestos l ost conc rties, aut er itterin h n g the ned abou orities t the grou nd an d roa ds
“The pieces of asbestos were mostly from older roofs and fences and even entire asbestos structures that had been destroyed by the wind and rain of the cyclone. “Our first job was to assess whether the debris was actually asbestos, and then to assess the extent of the damage and decide if DFES was required for the clean-up or whether the damage could be handled by the local government authority. “The first priority was to clear the streets so Western Power could work on restoring power to the area, starting with the school, health centre and childcare facility. “We coordinated meetings with the contractors and made sure they had the correct personal protective equipment, that they were leaving locations clean, that they secured the loads on their vehicles and so on.”
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SAFETY AND HEALTH ALERTS AND GUIDANCE
WorkSafe Inspector, Valerie Hall gave a presentation to other agencies on how to identify asbestos and address any concerns they had
A sizeable chunk of asbestos embedded in a wooden electricity pole
WorkSafe inspectors also undertook presentations to other agencies on how to identify asbestos and address any concerns they had.
Building and Energy Chief Electrical Inspector Supply Gary Scott said the team travelled to Kalbarri in response to the cyclone as soon as it was safe to do so after it ripped through the town.
“We were also helping to prioritise the work of the licensed asbestos removalists during the response phase and making sure they were removing the asbestos safely,” Inspector Hall said. “To illustrate the speed of the wind in Kalbarri during Cyclone Seroja, we found pieces of asbestos embedded in brick walls, and a sizeable chunk embedded in a wooden electricity pole. “The asbestos was safely removed by licenced asbestos removalists as soon as it was possible for them to travel to the town.” WorkSafe retained a presence during the recovery phase with an inspector from Geraldton attending the town weekly. A team of electrical and gas inspectors from Building and Energy also travelled to Kalbarri to support Western Power and help ensure public safety regarding electrical and gas issues.
“The electrical and gas inspectors were there to assist Western Power with the considerable task of ensuring that electrical and gas installations in the town were in a safe condition,” Mr Scott said. “Team managers participated in the daily Incident Response Management Group meetings, then set to work helping to identify issues so they could be rectified and Western Power could restore power to priority areas and residences,” Mr Scott said. “We then followed up with further inspections in early July at Kalbarri, Northampton and surrounding areas.” Technical building officers from Building and Energy also joined experts from James Cook University’s Cyclone Testing Station to inspect cyclone-damaged buildings in Northampton and Kalgoorlie.
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MENTALLY HEALTHY WORKPLACES
REPORTING PSYCHOSOCIAL INJURIES IN THE RESOURCES SECTOR
Exposure to psychosocial hazards poses risk of significant harm to the psychological and physical health of workers. The psychological injuries that can result from exposure to these hazards include: • • • • •
anxiety depression trauma and stress-related disorders alcohol abuse and substance use other psychological conditions.
As the Department continues to focus on supporting the development and maintenance of mentally healthy workplaces in Western Australian workplaces, the mentally healthy workplaces audit has been a principal source of information on trends in managing psychosocial hazards and risk factors in the resources sector. The Department has conducted 27 mentally healthy workplace audits since the tool was published in August 2020. In particular, the audits emphasised the importance of raising awareness of the statutory requirements to report injuries and potentially serious occurrences at mines, including those related to psychological injuries and hazard exposures.
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Psychosocial hazard exposures that can lead to psychological injury and may be reportable to the Department can include: • • • • • •
workplace violence and aggression harassment, including sexual harassment bullying stress burnout exposure to traumatic events.
Providing and maintaining workplaces where workers are, so far as practicable, not exposed to psychosocial hazards and ensuring statutory notification requirements are met supports compliance with legislative obligations under the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994. Taking actions to identify potential psychosocial hazards and implementing controls to manage the risk of exposures supports mining operations to secure workers’ psychological health through the development and maintenance of mentally healthy workplaces.
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MENTALLY HEALTHY WORKPLACES
Developing a mentally healthy workplace means preventing or mitigating harm by: • promoting positive practices at work that support mental health and wellbeing • identifying then eliminating or minimising work-related psychosocial hazards by managing their associated risks • intervening early to support effective coping strategies when individuals or groups of workers are showing signs of distress • facilitating access to appropriate services and health management options such as recovery at work or return-to-work support.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION The Commission for Occupational Safety and Health has released a new code of practice, Psychosocial hazards in the workplace, for public consultation until 11 October 2021. The code of practice is intended to provide practical occupational safety and health guidance for workplaces where workers may be exposed to psychological and social hazards such as inappropriate behaviours, violence and aggression, fatigue, burnout, stress and trauma, which can be harmful to their health. The code is complementary to the Violence and aggression at work and Workplace behaviour codes of practice on which the Commission recently sought feedback. It is intended that the three codes will be published as a suite. Consultation draft and feedback form
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HUMAN FACTORS
Managing change
Safety-critical communication
Designing for people
Staffing and workload (including supervision)
Training and competence
Human factors
Usable procedures
Managing human reliability
Fitness for work
Health and safety culture
Maintenance, inspection, and testing
UNDERSTANDING HUMAN FACTORS IN MAJOR HAZARD SAFETY Human factors have been identified as contributing factors in nearly every major process safety incident. Human factors include staffing and workload, managing human reliability, training and competence, and safety-critical communication.
WHY IS UNDERSTANDING THESE FACTORS IMPORTANT? Being able to identify and address situations where human factors are likely to create a sequence of events that will lead to an incident is one of the most fundamental safety processes we have. To do this effectively, human factors need to be integrated into safety management systems. People performing normal work continually adapt and overcome unexpected situations, detect changes in risk, are flexible in managing and linking multiple tasks, apply knowledge and judgement to identify patterns and understand impacts of actions, and manage complex communications. Humans manage the normal variability of work. Therefore, human performance plays a significant role in preventing initiation, mitigating the impact, preventing escalation and improving recovery efforts of major incidents or events.
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HUMAN FACTORS
There are limitations to human performance because human reliability is both negatively and positively influenced by performance-shaping factors.
WHAT ARE PERFORMANCESHAPING FACTORS? Performance-shaping factors are components that contribute to the likelihood of error or ‘shape’ human performance. Managing human performance involves increasing the likelihood of achieving desired performance outcomes and reducing the likelihood of human failure. We can achieve this by understanding what performance shaping factors are involved. These factors are: • organisation-related: e.g. leadership commitment, organisational priorities, workplace culture, availability and adequacy of resources, level of supervision, change management, key performance indicators, communication systems • job-related: e.g. difficulty or complexity of tasks, time available, physical work environment, human-machine interface, availability and quality of procedures, team member behaviour, equipment being used • individual-related: e.g. personality, attitude and motivation, mental ability, skills and competence, health factors such as fatigue, drugs and alcohol, physical capability and mental health.
Performance-shaping factors are identifiable, assessable and manageable. This means the potential for human failure can be controlled to reduce the risk to as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP) or so far as reasonable practicable (SFARP), and organisational and job conditions can be optimised to improve human performance. An error tolerant system will have multiple controls (or defences) in place to support human performance and manage human failure. A safety management system that does not identify, assess and control performance-shaping factors may not be sufficient to demonstrate the risks have been reduced to ALARP or SFARP.
NEW RESOURCES The Department’s Critical Risks team has expanded their capability by bringing a dedicated human factors specialist into their team. Critical Risks is using this expertise in inspections, audits and reviewing safety cases/reports, and upskilling inspectors in this area. The Department will soon release a guide, Human factors fundamentals for petroleum and major hazard facility operators, along with a human factors self-assessment guide and tool template, to help petroleum and major hazard facility operators to integrate human factors within their safety management systems.
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HEALTH AND HYGIENE
WORKSAFE SILICA COMPLIANCE PROJECT Silica, or silicon dioxide, is a common, naturally occurring mineral. In its quartz form, crystalline silica is a major component of many types of sand. It is used in the manufacture of stone benchtops, concrete and some bricks and rocks (e.g. granite, slate, sandstone).
WHAT ARE THE HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH SILICA? When workers cut, crush, drill, polish, saw or grind products that contain silica, dust particles (not necessarily visible to the eye) are generated that are small enough to lodge deep in the lungs. These very small dust particles are referred to as respirable crystalline silica (RCS). Hazards relating to RCS can be found in a variety of industries such as construction and stone masonry, and in foundries. When exposed to RCS, workers are at risk of adverse health effects including: • s ilicosis – a serious and irreversible lung disease • an increased risk of: – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – kidney disease – lung cancer. Conditions such as lung cancer and certain forms of silicosis can be fatal. Workplaces with risks of RCS exposure have a duty to implement practical controls to protect the health and safety of their workers.
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SILICA COMPLIANCE PROJECT To ensure high-risk silica workplaces comply with occupational safety and health laws, WorkSafe undertook a compliance project between 2018 and 2021. While the project focused on engineered stone benchtop fabrication and installation work, it also included occupational hygiene monitoring during wall chasing activities in the construction industry and sample preparation processes in assay laboratories. Throughout the project, 150 workplace inspections took place, with approximately 1,000 enforcement notices issued. These notices were issued mainly for: • n on-compliance relating to establishing safe systems of work to control RCS hazards • a lack of health surveillance being provided to workers whose health was at risk. Air monitoring was conducted at 38 workplaces by the WorkSafe occupational hygienists in both metropolitan and regional locations. The results showed that 75% of workplaces were recording levels above the action level – a term used to refer to half the workplace exposure standard, and the level at which workplace control measures require review. As a result of enforcement action, 365 workers participated in health surveillance during the project. Of these workers, 24 cases of silicosis were identified.
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HEALTH AND HYGIENE
WORKSAFE SILICA RECALL PROJECT
HEALTH SURVEILLANCE FOR WORKERS
In addition to the workplace inspections, WorkSafe offered a health surveillance opportunity termed the ‘WorkSafe Silica Recall Project’. High risk workers who had five or more years of industry experience were offered a low dose CT scan after having a clear chest x-ray as part of their health surveillance screening.
WorkSafe also supported the WA Silicosis Screening Program (WASSP) with the Institute for Respiratory Health, providing free health surveillance to eligible workers. Regular health surveillance can help identify early changes in the lungs of workers at risk. This way, further exposures can be prevented to ensure that the health of workers is protected.
Of 90% participating workers: 8 were found to have silicosis based on the low dose CT scan imagery. These changes were not visible on the chest x-ray Another 40% of this high risk group had other findings identified on the low dose CT scans, which may be caused by exposure to silica or other respiratory issues. These workers were referred for further specialist medical review
Health surveillance in WA is undertaken by Appointed Medical Practitioners (AMPs) who have responsibilities under the OSH Regulations. The AMP overseeing health surveillance screening is authorised to make decisions on the appropriate tests required for the worker based on the risk profile (length of worker exposure, type of controls used etc.). Guidance for AMPs conducting health surveillance for silica is available on the Department’s website.
In January 2021, the outcomes of the WorkSafe Silica Recall Project and feedback from radiologists and specialists led to the amendment of the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996 to require a low dose high resolution CT scan rather than a chest x-ray for silica health surveillance screening. More information on the WorkSafe silica compliance project is available on the Department’s website.
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FROM THE TOOLBOX
WHAT’S NEW? Asbestos contaminated soils – information sheet Methamphetamine in the workplace – information sheet Quad bikes in workplaces – guide Safe storage of solid ammonium nitrate code of practice
Safety and health snapshots Safety and health snapshot - Safe access to vehicles and mobile equipment Quarterly performance snapshot for the Western Australian minerals sector – 1 January - 31 March 2021 Quarterly performance snapshot for the Western Australian minerals sector – 1 October - 31 December 2020
MINES SAFETY Significant incident reports • SIR No. 286 Near miss following unplanned movement of autonomous haul trucks during recovery operations • SIR No. 287 Crush injuries sustained during maintenance activities • SIR No. 288 Off-highway haul truck tyre blowout in workshop injures workers
Safety bulletins • M SB No. 183 Hazard of lightning strikes on vehicles • MSB No. 184 Workers ejected from underground work platform
WORKSAFE Safety alerts • Safety alert 04/2021 Employee fatally injured after falling from personal property stored at workplace • Safety alert 05/2021 Fatal knife injury at abattoir • Safety alert 06/2021 Off-highway haul truck tyre blowout in workshop injures workers
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SAFETY MOMENT These incident scenarios have been developed by the Department to help workplaces understand how different types of decision-making failures can result in an incident. These examples are based on actual events, however, all identifying features have been removed. They are not intended to simply be a question and answer, rather to start conversations about health and safety within the workplace.
Incident scenario Decision-making failure: assessing the risk A worker was exposed to high pressure ammonia refrigerant while working next to a live refrigeration unit. The worker was working from an elevating work platform (EWP) to install a partition wall in a large cool room. The EWP was in close proximity to a chiller unit that was operating while the work was being conducted. The EWP knocked a valve on the chiller unit, releasing high pressure ammonia refrigerant. The worker was sprayed in the face with ammonia and inhaled ammonia, causing serious lung inflammation and burns to the respiratory tract requiring treatment in an intensive care unit.
Questions to the group • What do you think contributed to this incident? • Are there any bulk refrigerants in use at your workplace? • Do you know: – what they are? – what are the hazards? – how to handle an emergency leak?
Further information Safety alert 06/2018 Worker injured by ammonia during work near refrigeration unit
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DEPARTMENT NEWS
WORKSAFE PLAN RECIPIENTS The Department is pleased to announce the latest recipients of WorkSafe Plan certificates of achievement. Employers and workers from each of these organisations have demonstrated a strong commitment to making occupational health and safety a priority in their workplace.
PLATINUM
BECOMING A WORKSAFE PLAN ASSESSOR The Department has developed an online information session for people who are interested in becoming a WorkSafe Plan assessor. This online course allows potential assessors to complete the information session no matter where they are located. Participants will learn how to complete a WorkSafe Plan assessment and submit an application for a Certificate of Achievement. Completion of this information session is only one part of the requirement to become a WorkSafe Plan Assessor. In addition, to be recognised as an assessor, participants must: • Have minimum certification as a principal or lead work health and safety (WHS) auditor for WHS systems (e.g. Exemplar Global (RABQSA), IRCA or an equivalent body) • be qualified and experienced in WHS. Only WorkSafe Plans submitted to the Department by independent recognised WorkSafe Plan Assessors will be entitled to receive a certificate of achievement.
• CEVA Logistics (Western Power Material) • Envar Group of Companies • Powerlines Plus Pty Ltd • WA Insurance Builders
GOLD • Contract Power Australia Pty Ltd Prestige Alarms and Security Pty Ltd Turbo Air Technology
SILVER • Harvey Beef • Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association Inc
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DEPARTMENT NEWS
HISTORIC MINE PLANS HELPING TO MITIGATE RISK As part of our efforts to preserve the rich history of Western Australia’s (WA) resources industry, the Department holds an extensive archive of maps and plans dating back 125 years. Most of this material was collected during the rapid growth of the mining industry following the discovery of the Eastern Goldfields. Of particular interest is the Department’s collection of over 30,000 maps and plans, of which, roughly 4,000 are historic mine plans from the1890s to the 1950s. These mine plans were initially collected to support the activities of the Geological Survey of WA staff who accessed and obtained mine plans during their mapping activities and to improve their understanding of the geology of mining operations in the areas under investigation. This collection of historic mine plans includes cross sections and longitudinal sections showing the entire workings of mining operations.
WHO USES MINE PLANS? Access to mine plans is sought by a range of users including prospectors, mining companies, land use planners, historians and genealogists. They are a powerful tool in recording historical mining activity in an area, and this information is especially useful for locating old workings and drill holes and helping to define their extent for safety purposes. Examples of how mine plans can be used by mining and exploration companies include: • • • •
when re-entering old workings for mine planning and design to assist geotechnical engineers when planning exploration activities.
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STREAMLINING ACCESS TO MINE PLANS Mineral House Library has commenced a project to digitise its unique collection of historical mine plans, making them accessible to the wider community. Plans are retrieved, repaired and scanned to PDF and all metadata (e.g. bibliographic and physical details, mine names, lease numbers, shaft names, shaft depths) is captured to a database register. Digital copies are included in the Department’s mine plan repository and formally become available for Departmental and industry access.
WHY IS HAVING ACCESS TO HISTORIC MINE PLANS IMPORTANT? While mine plans are critical in recording historical mining activity, their value is especially apparent in the mine development, mine safety, and hazard and risk mitigation areas. Western Australia abounds with an enormous number of old and collapsed shafts, open cuts and shallow workings that pose a risk to the mining industry and the wider community. Knowing their location and extent is vital to managing risks and keeping people safe.
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DEPARTMENT NEWS
RISK MITIGATION: WHEAL ELLEN LEAD MINE, NORTHAMPTON
MINE DEVELOPMENT: KALGOORLIE SUPER PIT
The Library provided a number of historic mine plans held on the Wheal Ellen lead mine in Northampton to the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH). Provision of these plans was part of works being undertaken by the Department’s Abandoned Mines Program, which is helping to assess the area for development opportunities. The plans provided were critical in identifying unknown shafts and the risks they posed.
Following a request from the owners of the Kalgoorlie Super Pit, the Library was able to supply 100 historic mine plans of the leases that now form part of the Kalgoorlie Super Pit development. The occurrence and position of the historical workings are critical in enabling further development of the Super Pit, reducing risk during mining operations and ensuring safety of mine personnel.
Prior to learning of these unidentified shafts, DPLH had planned laydown yards and haul roads in close proximity to the shafts that would have crossed over the historic lateral workings. Because of the work of the library in identifying and supplying these plans, DPLH was able to locate the additional shafts on the site, quantify added risks and plan appropriate avoidance and management controls. Tara Read, Principal Environmental Officer, DMIRS
Part of plan showing workings at Boulder leases, 1907
WANT TO KNOW MORE? For all enquiries regarding historic mine plans and other collections of the Mineral House Library, visit the Library Catalogue or contact the Senior Librarian. All other mine plans enquiries should be emailed to rsdmineplans@dmirs.wa.gov.au
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SAFETY REGULATION GROUP Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety Postal address:
Locked Bag 100 EAST PERTH WA 6892
MINES SAFETY
including exploration, mining and mineral processing Telephone: 1800 SAFEMINE (1800 723 364) (general enquiries, mines safety reporting and safety and health representatives) Email: MinesSafety@dmirs.wa.gov.au (general enquiries) mineshreps@dmirs.wa.gov.au (safety and health representatives)
DANGEROUS GOODS SAFETY
including explosives and fireworks
WORKSAFE
for general industries Telephone: 1300 307 877 (general enquiries) 1300 424 091 (licensing) 1800 678 198 (24 hours serious incident and fatality reporting) Email: WSCallCentre@dmirs.wa.gov.au (general enquiries)
WORKSAFE LIBRARY Mason Bird Building, Level 1, 303 Sevenoaks Street, Cannington WA 6107
MINE PLANS
Telephone: +61 8 6251 2300 Email: dgsb@dmirs.wa.gov.au Telephone: 1800 SAFEMINE (1800 723 364) (dangerous goods safety enquiries) Email: rsdmineplans@dmirs.wa.gov.au cso@dmirs.wa.gov.au (dangerous goods licensing SAFETY REGULATION SYSTEM enquiries)
(SRS)
PETROLEUM SAFETY
including pipelines and operations, major hazard facilities and geothermal energy Telephone: +61 8 9358 8001
Telephone: +61 8 9358 8001 (select option 3) Email: SRSManager@dmirs.wa.gov.au
SAFETY EDUCATION
including publications and events Telephone: 1300 307 877 Email: SafetyComms@dmirs.wa.gov.au
@WorkSafeWA
@DMIRS_WA
RSDSep21_1108
Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety
