RFDS partners with QMRS to improve safety in mines

The Royal Flying Doctor Service Queensland Services (RFDS) has partnered with Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS) to develop a unique medical training program for members of mine rescue teams.

RFDS Chief Executive Officer Nino Di Marco said he was looking forward to working to improve safety in mines across Queensland.

“We are extremely happy to announce this vital project. This alliance will provide Queensland Mines Rescue team members with valuable training that will significantly contribute to the safety and wellbeing of not just individual mine sites, but the overall Queensland mining community,” Di Marco said.

Drawing on the Flying Doctor’s 86 years of experience and knowledge in delivering medical services to rural and remote Queensland, the accredited Medical First Responder program will train mine rescue teams in advanced emergency first aid and trauma management.

It will also focus on the use of specialised medical equipment and the preparation of critically injured patients for transport.

The program will make use of RFDS Flexible Learning Options, an interactive online learning platform aimed at accelerating information uptake, before complementing this with practical hands-on instruction.

The program will commence in June 2014 and has been welcomed by QMRS Chief Executive Officer Wayne Hartley.

“This is a significant step forward in the delivery of the vital components of first responder rescue training,” Hartley said.

“The specially formulated content will take mine rescue training to a new level of expertise and, in doing so, maintain the position of QMRS as the leader of mine rescue capabilities in Australia.”

For further information about RFDS Queensland Services, visit: www.rfdsqldservices.com.au