Keeping to its central theme of health for this year, the NSWMC says it has introduced a separate category in its innovation awards, dedicated to rewarding health and fitness initiatives.

Titled “Fighting Fit”, the NSWMC said the conference would explore the challenges facing the mining industry in the area of fitness for work.

“Whilst the Australian mining industry is the safest and most technologically advanced mining industry in the world, it is all too easy to overlook the ‘health’ aspect when we talk about health and safety,” said NSWMC chief executive Dr Nikki Williams.

“The most valuable resources in our industry are the individuals who work in our mines. The health and fitness of each and every one of them is pivotal to the safety record of our entire industry.”

Mining health related innovations that are eligible for awards include initiatives targeting ergonomic enhancement, health assessments, human factors, fitness for work programs, health surveillance and occupational health risks along with those addressing specific health risks such as the ageing workforce and obesity.

Eligible safety initiatives range from solutions to specific issues involving design and redesign of equipment and machinery, the introduction of new or improved OHS management processes, safe work procedure developments and new training and education programs.

More information is available from: http://www.nswmin.com.au/about_nswmc/conferences_and_events