Legislation has been amended to permit the possession and use of the painkiller methoxyflurane, also known as penthrane, in first aid.

Persons appointed to provide first aid under the emergency management system for coal mines are permitted to use the gases.

The emergency management system or emergency plan must detail first aid arrangements and persons competent to provide first aid treatment and the administration of the gas.

General first aid requirements for NSW mines are in clause 20 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001.