Underground bolting rig injuries prompt mine safety investigation

NSW Mine Safety has engaged a mechanical engineering consultant to review the number of injuries that have occurred from roof bolting in underground coalmines, following 98 recorded incidents between 2009 and 2015 that resulted in workers either being hospitalised or certified unfit for work for seven days or more.

The report, which is now available on the mine safety website, identified that the number of injuries as a result of roof bolting has continued to rise.

The two types of roof bolting-related injuries including incidents related to musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomics and slips, trips and falls or injuries related to moving equipment.

Musculoskeletal disorders (42%) and slips, trips and falls accounted for the majority of reported injuries, while the report stated there was clear indication that operator entanglement with moving components, including roof and rib falls, had reduced by 20%.

NSW Mine Safety said this may be considered largely attributable to the introduction of MDG35.1.

Some of the recommendations to reduce incidents included: improved consultation between mine operators and manufacturers of drilling and bolting equipment, a review of bolting rigs to check for safety improvements against the latest industry designs and standards, the use of better quality materials supplied and extensive maintenance inspection regimes.

Workers are encouraged to view the report for a full list of all recommendations.

A number of end user-focused roof bolting workshops, facilitated by Mine Safety, are also being held for industry including:

• 22 March — Lithgow
• 23 March — Wollongong

To access the full report, click here.

Originally published here.