Mines and quarries across central Victoria should expect a visit from the state's resources regulator later this month as part of an ongoing initiative focusing on operational risk.
After a successful series of inspections across the state's west, northwest, the Earth Resources Regulator is on its way to sites in the Mitchell, Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander shires between 18 and 20 June.
The inspections are part of a broader program aimed at better understanding how mine and quarry operators are managing risks. Information gathered will inform future audits and inspections.
Mine and quarry operators are required to understand and implement the commitments in their work plan. Inspections have identified some sites with inadequate fuel management, poor waste storage and a lack of boundary markers.
Operators should be aware of their boundaries and extraction limits, as well as their obligations to manage dust and noise. During the inspections operators will be reminded of their responsibilities and commitments.
Understanding and appropriately managing site risk is crucial to protecting nearby communities, infrastructure and the environment.
Operators will be required to address unmanaged or poorly managed risk.
Attribute quotes to Rebecca Carlton Acting Chief Inspector Resources Victoria
"We'll be checking things like site boundaries and extraction limits, as well as ensuring operators are properly managing dust and noise."
"Our inspectors will be reminding operators of their responsibilities and gathering information to guide future audits."
"If required, we'll take enforcement action to ensure behaviour is changed to protect nearby communities, infrastructure and the environment."
