4Risk assessment

4 Risk assessment

(1)  A mine operator must ensure that a risk assessment, in respect of the mine, is undertaken at the following times:

(a) before mining operations at the mine commence;

(b) before the introduction, for the first time at the mine, of any plant or substance;

(c) before work of a type not previously performed at a mine commences;

(d) when there is a change at the mine in the type of work, work practices or plant;

(e) when new information becomes available concerning work, work practices, plant, or substances, at the mine, that may affect the health or safety of a worker or other person at the mine;

(f) whenever a new hazard or potential hazard is introduced or identified at the mine.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a body corporate, a fine not exceeding $13 000; and

(b) an individual, a fine not exceeding $6 500.

(2)  A mine operator must ensure that a risk assessment in respect of the mine is –

(a) reviewed and, if necessary, revised as soon as practicable after there is evidence to indicate that the risk assessment is no longer adequate; and

(b) in any other case, reviewed and, if necessary, revised, at intervals of not more than 5 years.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a body corporate, a fine not exceeding $13 000; and

(b) an individual, a fine not exceeding $6 500.

(3)  A risk assessment may be undertaken –

(a) on individual items of plant or substances; or

(b) if multiple items of plant, or substances, of the same design or composition are installed and used under the same conditions – on a representative sample of the plant or substance, unless the risk to health and safety may vary according to who is operating the item or dealing with the substance.