Operations at the Byerwen coal mine in Queensland have been given the green light to resume after a suspension of heavy vehicle use was lifted by Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ).
This decision comes after a fatal incident on August 22, 2024, involving a collision between a light vehicle and a haul truck, which resulted in the death of a worker.
The incident marked the second fatality at the mine within a month, following the death of another worker, Chris Schloss, in a separate incident.
RSHQ CEO Rob Djukic stated that the inspector who initially issued the suspension is now satisfied that the mine can maintain a safe operating environment.
However, the investigation into the August 22 incident is ongoing.
The investigation will focus on understanding the interaction between the light vehicle and the haul truck that led to the fatality.
Macmahon, the contractor at the Byerwen mine, has provided additional details, indicating that the light vehicle collided with the rear of a loaded dump truck, which was moving slowly up a ramp.
The company has expressed its commitment to cooperating fully with authorities to determine the cause of the incident.
The mine, operated by QCoal in partnership with Japan’s JFE Steel, had suspended operations voluntarily following the incident.
Workers have been informed they can return to the site, although the emotional impact of the incidents is still being felt among the workforce.
The Mining and Energy Union reported that workers are traumatised by the recent events, and Macmahon has pledged to support affected employees.
The recent fatalities have raised concerns about safety practices at the Bowen Basin site, prompting calls for stricter safety measures.
Despite the resumption of operations, RSHQ’s investigation continues, and the findings could potentially lead to broader safety reforms within the industry.
