9Plan required if electricity used or present at mine

9 Plan required if electricity used or present at mine

(1)  A mine operator must, if electricity is used or present at the mine, ensure that there is a major hazard management plan in respect of the risks to health and safety that are associated with the use or presence of electricity 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)  The major hazard management plan in respect of the risks to health and safety that are associated with the use or presence of electricity at a mine is to make provision for the following matters:

(a) the safe connection, disconnection, removal and restoration of electrical power at the mine;

(b) ensuring that electrical installations at the mine are maintained so that –

(i) the safe and satisfactory operation of the installation is not impaired by interference, damage, ageing or wear; and

(ii) the live parts of the installation remain properly insulated, or protected, against inadvertent contact with any person; and

(iii) the earthing system for the installation operates effectively; and

(iv) the installation is not used in a manner that exceeds the operating limits imposed by its design or installation; and

(v) the installation does not become a significant potential cause of fire for the environment surrounding the installation;

(c) the use and maintenance of explosion-protected plant and installations if warranted (for example, by the presence of explosive or inflammable dusts, atmospheres or materials);

(d) safe working procedures when work is carried out –

(i) in the vicinity of overhead power lines; or

(ii) where there is a possibility of making contact with buried or otherwise hidden electrical structures;

(e) consideration of protection against lightning;