71Sealing

71 Sealing

71 Sealing

(1) In complying with section 14, the mine operator of an underground coal mine must manage risks to health and safety associated with sealing at the mine.

(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the mine operator must ensure the following—

(a) consideration is given to the conditions at the place in which the seal is to be installed, including the following—

(i) the presence of flammable gas,

(ii) the potential of ignition sources,

(iii) the possibility of pressure piling behind the seal,

(iv) how long the seal can be expected to remain in the condition in which it is installed,

(b) when the mine, or part of the mine, requires sealing in emergency conditions—

(i) the sealing is carried out in accordance with the ventilation control plan and the emergency plan for the mine, and

(ii) the risks to health and safety associated with the emergency sealing activities at the mine are managed,

(iii) notification regarding the emergency sealing is provided as soon as reasonably practicable to the regulator in the approved way and form,

(c) the operation of each airlock installed at an entrance to the mine is tested to ensure its effectiveness at least once every 12 months or more if necessary,

(d) the connection point for using inertisation equipment and each airlock and seal required to be used with the equipment at the mine are tested at appropriate intervals to ensure—

(i) they are fit for use in the event of an emergency, and

(ii) necessary facilities including water and cleared areas are available for use with the equipment, and

(e) modelling is conducted at least once every 12 months to ensure the inertisation locations to be used at the mine are located effectively.

(3) The testing referred to in subsection (2)(c) may, but need not, include pressure testing.