A RESCUE exercise at the Xstrata Newlands underground coal mine has tested the skills of Queensland’s mine inspectors and emergency services.
According to Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson, the rescue scenario simulated a major mining incident.
A loaded fuel tanker with “faulty brakes” veers out of control while driving down a ramp at a mine. The vehicle crashes into an open pit and catches fire. This causes smoke and noxious gases to enter the underground workings.
Under the simulation, underground miners had to find their own way out, while workers above ground activated the emergency response and dealt with the burning tanker.
The minister said a major exercise is conducted at a different underground coal mine every year. It is hoped the lessons learnt from these exercises will help the state maintain its standard of mining health and safety.
Add a comment