Queensland coal mine operators take very seriously their obligations to provide a safe work environment for coal mine workers, QRC CEO Michael Roche said after the news that there are another possible nine new cases of black lung disease in Queensland.

“This forms but one element of the detailed safety and health management system required at every mine site,” he said.

“The Queensland Resources Council is aware of the CFMEU's coordinated tactic for the issuance of directives to all underground coal mine operators in Queensland.

“It is unclear what the union hopes to achieve from this ill-conceived threat issued three days before Christmas to shut down all underground coal mines in the state.”

The actions of CFMEU ISHRs in issuing a S167 directive on 22 December is unlikely to have any impact on the operations of mines which comply with the existing legislative framework, Roche said.

“Mine safety and health management systems ensure that the risks are managed and kept as low as reasonably practicable,” he said.

“Based on legal advice the validity of the directive itself however, seems to be in question. It will of course be up to individual mine operators to respond to these union directives.”