The fall occurred while the charge crew were scaling from within a charge up basket approx. 1.2m above the drive floor, according to NSW Mine Safety.

Approximately 150kg spilled into the basket causing non-life threatening injuries to the charger, it said.

The large face (6.5H x 5.5W) was not supported and was intersected by a dense pattern of multiple joints increasing the failure potential.

“The mine operator should consider the possible adverse effects of geological structures as they are known, and as they become known, and reduce risk ALARP at the initial planning stage and as an on-going monitoring and review process,” NSW Mine Safety said.

“Geotechnical controls should be both predictive and reactive. If a change or deterioration in the work environment occurs then the change needs to be risk assessed and appropriate ground control protocols implemented to ensure workers are not exposed to risk.”

In another incident, an Ampcontrol Burnbrite socket failed to comply.

“As part of their introduction to site process, managers of electrical engineering for underground coal mines should have a rigorous review process for documentation associated with the testing, repair and overhaul of explosion protected electrical equipment,” Mine Safety said.

“Where it is identified that explosion protected electrical equipment in use in a hazardous zone does not comply with its Certificate of Conformity, mine operators should take the appropriate steps to address both the risks arising from this non-conformity, and the requirements to comply with the applicable clauses of the NSW WHS(M&P)R 2014.”