99Emergency exits

99 Emergency exits

99 Emergency exits

(1) The mine operator of an underground mine must ensure all parts of the mine have at least 2 exits to the surface that—

(a) are trafficable by persons, and

(b) comply with subsections (2)–(4).

Maximum penalty—

(a) for an individual—60 penalty units, or

(b) for a body corporate—300 penalty units.

(2) An exit must—

(a) be accessible from each level at the mine in which extraction operations are being carried out, and

(b) allow for the passage of rescue persons and rescue equipment, and

(c) be marked or signposted so that it may be readily located in an emergency, and

(d) be maintained so that it remains effective.

(3) The exits at an underground coal mine must be located so as to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, an incident or event that occurs in relation to 1 exit that prevents the exit from being used for the purpose of escape from the mine does not prevent persons from using the other exit to escape.

(4) At least 1 of the exits at an underground coal mine must—

(a) be an intake airway or a combination of adjacent intake airways, and

(b) be designated as the primary exit, and

(c) be suitable for use by a vehicle.

(5) The mine operator of an underground mine must ensure the following—

(a) the risk associated with fire affecting an exit is managed as far as reasonably practicable,

(b) fire fighting equipment is located on or near equipment installed in the primary exit and is appropriate for its proposed use,

(c) workers who may need to use exits are provided with sufficient training and instruction so as to be made familiar with the exits,

(d) the marking of exit paths makes it clear persons can, as far as reasonably practicable, safely travel on the paths in an emergency, including through conditions of reduced visibility or irrespirable or unsafe atmospheres.