Explosives licences set to expire

WorkCover NSW recently advised that explosives licences that were issued from 1 September 2005 had begun to expire and that all businesses and individuals that use or handle explosive materials are reminded to check their licence expiry dates and apply for replacements early.

General Manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division John Watson said: “Any business or individual handling explosives or security-sensitive ammonium nitrate is required by law to hold a WorkCover licence. The licence holder must reapply for a licence well in advance of its expiry date if they wish to continue handling these materials.

“All individuals involved in the handling of these materials must undergo a rigorous national security check and hold a current Unsupervised Handling Licence.

“National security checks can take some time to complete, so licence applicants should not expect a licence to be issued immediately.

“Business operators need to be aware that without a current licence, the legal supply of ammonium nitrate and other materials to customers will be interrupted.”

WorkCover has commenced a program which involves contacting licence holders in writing several months before their licence expires and advising them of their responsibilities.

“I encourage all businesses and individuals with an explosives licence to reapply at least two months prior to the expiry of their licence if they wish to continue using these materials,” Watson added. “Lodging an early application will minimise the possible disruption to an applicant’s business due to the expiration of their licence.”

Industries affected by the licence scheme include mining, chemical, transport and agricultural ‘users’ of ammonium nitrate.

In addition to those who handle ammonium nitrate, companies that import, export, transport, store, manufacture or supply explosives or ammonium nitrate to others also require a licence.

Any licensee unsure of the status of their licence or what licence is required is advised to contact WorkCover on 13 10 50 as soon as possible.