64 Legal Register Dist 2

resubmission for 3.9

I am the HSEQ manager for Qld and NSW for the organisation I work with. In this role I am responsible for the delivery of communications around this area where we work on client sites. Sometimes there is sensitive information that needs to be communicated in regard to injuries or investigations into various incidents. There is not many Environmental incidents to report, however this too would be investigated on site and reviewed by myself prior to communication with the client. Where a significant Environmental incident is sustained on one of our sites I would be responsible for the investigation and company communication, although the Operational Manager would also be involved in the process.

The organisation I work with is a major contractor to the Underground Coal Mining Industry both in Qld and NSW. The company has recently delved into the ground consolidation work performed within underground coal where this is required for the continuance of mining operations. It requires the storage, transport and use of chemical that are both Hazardous and Dangerous in reasonable large quantities. Within the chain of use the highest likelihood of a spill is whilst the chemicals are in transit, although non compatible chemicals are transported separately there is still serious issues around a spill of either of the two parts. Due to the nature of the coal mining industry and minimal number of licenses to use these products in the underground environment communications around incidents within the industry of an incident would (and have done in the past) have a seriously detrimental effect on the company in a few ways: - The reputation of the company as a reliable and safe user of the products would be seriously damaged. - Licensing requirements both for the use and transport of the product could be affected. The organisation uses a separate business division to transport the product so there would be adverse publicity for both. - The share price may also be affected adversely.

With the business i work within being a contractor to the big mine owners there are specific (and many) requirements made of us contractually not the least of which are our environmental responsibilities and accountabilities. As far as the general workforce goes there are obviously Environmental requirements e.g. reporting of spills, correct storage etc however on a day to day basis maintaining the focus of the workforce on their work duties, including Safety requirements and Environmental responsibilities is difficult at times. With strict monitoring and regular auditing taking place the workforce is aware of environmental requirements but it is difficult for them to become involved in the continuous improvement we re looking for. The company has incentives and initiatives around Safety and Environment and when these are in progress there is much effort placed by all, however the focus falls away as Management implements something different. To maintain the general workforces commitment to the continual improvement is the main difficulty in the EMS.

I currently belong to various networking forums such as : Queensland Resource Council (QRC,) and Mackay Active Industry Network (MAIN) I receive updates from - Enviro Law and - Government websites. - Conferences and training seminar attendance Within our business we also define accountabilities and responsibilities for ensuring legislative reviews occur and updates are circulated to the Group for the specific elements of the HSEQ Management sytem that we are “champions of” there are 12 elements and 4 HSEQ Managers 3 each