Mining is one of the most hazardous industries in Australia, with a high risk of fire and explosion. According to Safe Work Australia, there were 39 fatalities in the mining industry between 2014 and 2019, and many more injuries and illnesses. Fire protection is not only a legal requirement, but also a moral obligation for mine operators and managers who are responsible for the safety of their workers and the environment.
But what does fire protection entail in the mining industry? How can you ensure that your mine site is compliant with the relevant standards and regulations? And how can you prevent or minimise the impact of fire incidents on your operations and reputation?
In this article, we will answer these questions and share five must-know fire safety measures for the mining industry. Whether you are a new or experienced mine operator or manager, these tips will help you improve your fire protection strategy and reduce your fire risk.
1. Hire a certified fire protection specialist
The first and most important step in fire protection is to hire a certified fire protection specialist who has the expertise and experience in the mining industry. A fire protection specialist can assess your fire hazards, design and install appropriate fire systems, conduct regular inspections and maintenance, and provide training and emergency response services.
A certified fire protection specialist will also ensure that your fire systems comply with the relevant Australian standards, such as AS 1851-2012 Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment, AS 2290.1-2014 Electrical equipment for coal mines – Introduction, inspection and maintenance – For hazardous areas, and AS 5062-2016 Fire protection for mobile and transportable equipment.
By hiring a certified fire protection specialist, you will not only meet your legal obligations, but also demonstrate your commitment to fire safety and best practice in the mining industry.
2. Install adequate fire detection and suppression systems
The second step in fire protection is to install adequate fire detection and suppression systems that suit your specific mine site conditions and operations. Fire detection systems include smoke detectors, heat detectors, flame detectors, gas detectors, and manual call points. Fire suppression systems include sprinklers, water mist, foam, dry chemical powder, gaseous agents, and portable extinguishers.
The type and location of fire detection and suppression systems depend on various factors, such as the type of mine (underground or surface), the type of fuel (coal, metal, or mineral), the type of equipment (fixed or mobile), the type of ventilation (natural or mechanical), the type of power supply (electricity or diesel), and the level of human occupancy.
A certified fire protection specialist can help you select and install the most suitable fire detection and suppression systems for your mine site, taking into account these factors and the relevant standards and regulations.
3. Conduct regular inspections and maintenance
The third step in fire protection is to conduct regular inspections and maintenance of your fire systems to ensure that they are in good working order and ready to operate in case of a fire. Inspections and maintenance should be performed by a certified fire protection specialist according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the relevant standards.
Inspections and maintenance should cover all aspects of your fire systems, such as control panels, power supplies, batteries, wiring, piping, valves, nozzles, sensors, alarms, signage, extinguishers, hoses, reels, hydrants, pumps, tanks, etc. Any defects or faults should be reported and rectified as soon as possible.
Inspections and maintenance should also include testing of your fire systems to verify their functionality and performance. Testing should be done at regular intervals (monthly, quarterly, biannually, or annually) depending on the type of system and the level of risk. Testing should be documented and recorded for future reference.
4. Provide training and education
The fourth step in fire protection is to provide training and education to your workers on how to prevent, detect, report, and respond to fire incidents. Training and education should be delivered by a certified fire protection specialist who can tailor the content and methods to your specific mine site needs and objectives.
Training and education should cover topics such as:
- Fire hazards and risks in the mining industry
- Fire prevention measures and practices
- Fire detection systems and procedures
- Fire suppression systems and techniques
- Fire emergency plans and procedures
- Fire evacuation routes and assembly points
- Fire roles and responsibilities
- Fire reporting and investigation
Training and education should be conducted regularly (at least annually) to refresh your workers’ knowledge and skills. Training and education should also be evaluated to measure their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
5. Review and update your fire emergency plan
The fifth step in fire protection is to review and update your fire emergency plan to ensure that it reflects your current mine site conditions and operations. A fire emergency plan is a document that outlines how you will manage a fire incident from start to finish. It includes information such as:
- Fire emergency objectives and scope
- Fire emergency organisation and structure
- Fire emergency roles and responsibilities
- Fire emergency communication and coordination
- Fire emergency resources and equipment
- Fire emergency procedures and actions
- Fire emergency recovery and restoration
A fire emergency plan should be developed in consultation with your workers, your certified fire protection specialist, and your relevant stakeholders, such as the fire brigade, the police, the ambulance, the regulators, the media, and the community. A fire emergency plan should be tested and exercised regularly (at least annually) to ensure that it is effective and realistic. A fire emergency plan should also be reviewed and updated after any changes or incidents that may affect its validity or applicability.
Conclusion
Fire protection is a vital aspect of the mining industry that requires careful planning, implementation, and monitoring. By following these five fire safety measures, you can reduce your fire risk, enhance your fire compliance, and protect your workers, your assets, and your reputation.
If you need help with your fire protection strategy, contact a certified fire protection specialist with mine-site fire safety expertise today. They can provide you with professional advice, quality service, and customised solutions that meet your specific mine site needs and objectives.
