The BHP Billiton Mitsubishi alliance (BMA) mine won the award in recognition of a system developed at the mine which has improved safety on longwall recovery.

During longwall recovery at Crinum, Huesker mesh is used to provide a secure barrier for roof control and to improve safety. Difficulties with this in the past have made AFC chain difficult of move if coal face spall pins the mesh to the chain. The idea was to fix the wire starter rope on the Huesker mesh to the roof in front of the support canopies, using handheld roof bolters and 4 foot roof bolts.

Developed by mine workers, Steve Burt and Keith Weise, the system has been nicknamed the Burty Weise Bar. The results have been a reduction of injuries such as sprains/strains during the bolt-up phase of longwall changeout.

Commenting on the award, mine manager Shane Hansen had this to say: "Congratulations to Steve Burt, Keith Weise and the rest of the crew who have contributed ideas in developing this innovation. The Burty Weise Bar is an example of the commitment of all employees to safety and continuous improvement within their workplace. It has dramatically reduced the number of injuries to our workers when installing mesh in preparation for the longwall takeoff.

“I was proud to see an idea from Crinum Mine that has clearly identifiable benefits in safety and productivity being recognised by this award. As part of our overriding commitment to health and safety we will continue to encourage our employees to identify and eliminate hazards from the workplace."