The worker was fatally injured when a 2.2 tonne earthmoving tyre fell from a tyre handler at the mine's heavy vehicle wash bay.

 

The worker was employed by Marathon Tyres Pty Ltd and was undertaking tyre maintenance tasks at the mine.

 

"This incident reinforces the importance of implementing effective risk control measures when working near suspended loads and lifting equipment," Glendenning said.  

 

"Mine operators and contractors must have effective safety management systems in place and identify risks associated with the operation of lifting equipment such as tyre handlers. 

 

"When managing these risks, mine operators and contractors must have regard to the possibility of interactions between the lifting equipment, the load and people, and falling objects."

 

Glendenning said appropriate separation distances between the lifting equipment, the load and people had to be maintained.

 

"Work areas must be clearly defined, and appropriate exclusions zones must be effectively maintained in the event of an uncontrolled release of the load from the lifting equipment," he said.

 

"Mine operators and contractors must also ensure that workers are provided with information, training and supervision when working around lifting equipment and suspended loads."

 

An investigation report will be prepared for the Secretary of the Department of Planning and Environment and the NSW Coroner.