Heartfelt stories highlight mine safety message

Personal stories from families affected by workplace accidents will feature in this year's Mines Safety Roadshow, as the Department of Mines and Petroleum joins with industry to promote further positive cultural change across the mining sector.
  • Roadshow to visit eight centres across the State
  • Video series emphasises height hazards

Personal stories from families affected by workplace accidents will feature in this year's Mines Safety Roadshow, as the Department of Mines and Petroleum joins with industry to promote further positive cultural change across the mining sector.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion said the roadshows were among the department's most important proactive events for mines safety.

"The roadshows are an opportunity to meet personally with mines inspectors and network with like-minded people interested in better safety outcomes for Western Australia's mining operations," Mr Marmion said.

"This year's event includes a special screening of the second instalment in the Know Your Hazards video series, including heartfelt messages from people affected by mine site incidents."

The 2015 videos focus on falls, which remain a major cause of mining industry injuries and fatalities.

"These videos help workers better understand some of the risks they face and will put them in a much better position to recognise and control these hazards," the Minister said.

"You can only protect yourself against harm if you know what can harm you."

The program for the 2015 roadshow reflects findings of the recently released Serious Injury Review, which identified three main hazards facing all mine workers:  These are:

  • falling while working at height
  • being hit by falling objects
  • being struck or crushed by machines or heavy components.

"Events like this provide important stepping stones on the journey to our aspirational goal of zero harm in WA's resources industry," Mr Marmion said.

"Attending these roadshows indicates people's passion and commitment to improving Western Australian mines safety."

 

Fact File

  • The roadshow starts in Geraldton on Tuesday, October 13, then heads to Newman, Karratha, Port Hedland, Bunbury, Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Mandurah, before finishing in Perth on Friday November 6, 2015
  • The events are free, with mine site managers, supervisors, safety and health representatives encouraged to attend
  • For booking and event information, visit http://www.dmp.wa.gov.au/  

Minister's office - 6552 6800