The NSW Resources Regulator has just released an insightful report: Managing Roads and Other Vehicle Operating Areas in the Surface Metalliferous Sector.

The report summarises the findings of a targeted inspection program (Aug 19 – Sep 20) and lists the threats and compliance with critical controls relating to surface vehicle interactions. The report outlines “the need to ensure that plans and systems of work are developed and implemented based upon the underlying risk assessments” as one of the key findings.

The top ten identified concern categories include:

• Documentation relating to controls for roads or other vehicle operating areas (i.e. Risk Assessment, PHMP, TARPs) not relevant, current, or readily available
• Workers not familiar with nominated controls on site
• Active roads and intersections were not constructed to an adequate standard
• Workers observed to be non-compliant with the nominated controls on site
• Poor standard of signage and delineation along active roads
• Protective bunding for infrastructure and designated park-up areas were either absent or constructed to a poor standard
• Mobile plant not fit for purpose
• Pre-use inspection checklists did not accurately specify safety critical components of the vehicle
• Training information for workers not clearly defined or detailed in relation to the hazard
• Training records for workers were not recorded or available upon request

It is disappointing, yet not surprising, to read that the lack of positive communication between mobile plant and workers has been noted as an area of concern observed by inspectors. There have been too many wake up calls for the industry to step up the efforts in ensuring the appropriate use of positive communication.

The report provides a valuable blueprint for mining operators to assess the critical controls implemented to address the identified risks associated with traffic interactions on mining roads in NSW and across Australia.