Boundary Hill South Project 17. Hazard and Risk
17. HAZARD & RISK 17.1 Introduction This chapter identifies and describes potential hazards and risks to people and property during the construction, operation and decommissioning of the Project. Where elevated risks from the Project have been identified, mitigation measures have been identified to reduce risks to an acceptable level. This was achieved by: - undertaking a preliminary risk assessment of the hazards and risks likely to affect people and property during all phases of the Project; - identifying dangerous goods and hazardous substances likely to be stored, used and transported; - outlining measures to be implemented for the Project to mitigate potential risks to Callide Mine employees and the surrounding community; and - outlining emergency and disaster management procedures and controls. In the context of this assessment, risk can be defined as the likelihood of an undesired event or accident and its consequences occurring from an identified hazard. The source of the risk may arise from natural hazards such as meteorological and other natural events, including cyclones and heat waves, or may result from human-induced events such as chemical spills and fires. The purpose of this chapter is to identify activities and events that may arise during the construction and operation of the Project which may have a direct or indirect adverse impact on: - people (all stakeholders including Callide Mine employees, contractors, site visitors and the local community); and - property (Callide Mine assets, public assets such as access roads and privately owned assets such as neighbouring properties). Hazards and risks to the natural environment are excluded from this chapter as they are identified in the relevant EIS chapters, along with mitigation methods, where required. It must be noted that assessment of hazards and risks is an ongoing process that will be undertaken throughout Callide Mine s routine operations. Further risks and hazards may be identified during detailed mine planning and project development. Similarly, identified risks may be downgraded or upgraded in terms of the level of risk they pose as further information becomes available. This risk assessment forms part of the larger risk management process, which is continual throughout the Project life and linked to the Callide Mine s existing risk management processes. 17.2 Applicable Legislation and Policies The principal legislation relevant to this risk assessment is the Queensland Coal Mining Safety and Health Act 1999 (CMSH Act) and the associated Coal Mining Safety and Health Regulation 2001. This legislation applies to everyone who may affect the health or safety of persons at a coal mine, or as a result of mining operations. It also applies to a person whose health and safety may be affected while at a coal mine or as a result of coal mining operations. The CMSH Act provides a framework to protect the health and safety of those impacted by coal mining operations, including the effectiveness and monitoring of administration provisions to ensure the risk of injury or illness to any person is maintained at an acceptable limit. Under the CMSH Act, Callide Mine has an obligation to ensure the ongoing management of health and safety throughout all phases of the Project. In addition to the CMSH Act and associated regulations, a range of Australian Standards have been established to inform processes and procedures to reduce risks associated with mining operations. Relevant standards and guidelines that apply to the Project include: - AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk management Principles and guidelines (Standards Australia, 2009b); - AS/NZS 4801:2001 Occupational health and safety management systems (Standards Australia, 2001b); - AS 1940:2004 Storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids (Standards Australia, 2004); - Handbook 76:2010 Dangerous goods - Initial emergency response guide (Standards Australia, 2010); 17-1
- Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail (ADG Code) 7th Edition (NTC, 2007); - AS 2187.1:1998/1 2000 Explosives Storage, transport and use Storage (Standards Australia, 2000); - AS 2187.2:2006 Explosives Storage and use Use of explosives (Standards Australia, 2006b); - AS 3959:2009 Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas (Standards Australia, 2009c); and - AS 3745:2010 Planning for Emergencies in Facilities (Standards Australia, 2010). It is noted that Callide Mine has a number of plans and policies in place that have been developed in accordance with the above standards, guidelines and legislation. 17.3 Methodology of Assessment A preliminary risk assessment of the construction, operational and decommissioning phases of the Project has been undertaken in accordance with AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk management - Principles and guidelines. AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 provides a generic framework for establishing the context, identification, analysis, treatment and monitoring of risk. The framework recognises that the design of the risk assessment will need to account for the objectives of the analysis, the needs of an organisation and its products and services, and the process and practices used by the organisation. The risk assessment considered: - the context of each of the Project s core components; - potential hazards; - the likelihood and consequence of potential hazards occurring; and - the rate of usage and potential effects of hazardous substances stored, used or transported by the Project. The risk assessment was facilitated by AECOM based on previous experience with similar coal mining projects in Australia. In addition, a Risk Identification Workshop was held with representatives from the Project team to highlight key risks to people and property during the construction and operation of the Project (Appendix U). The focus of this assessment is the potential hazards and risks posed to people and property as a result of the Project. This includes stakeholders that may affect or may be affected by any decisions made with regard to the Project. For the purposes of this assessment, stakeholders include: - Callide Mine employees; - contractors and site visitors; and - people who live and work in close proximity to the Project. The assessment also considers property impacted by the Project including Callide Mine assets associated with the Project, including existing and new infrastructure as well as non-callide Mine owned assets such as privately owned dwellings and public roads used to access Callide Mine. 17.3.1 Hazard Identification Potential hazards from the Project were identified through the consideration of the following. - The Project development stage including the existing condition of the Mining Lease Application (MLA) area and surrounding environment. This includes the consideration of major natural hazards and events such as flooding, bushfires and climate change implications. - The Project construction phase, including the development of facilities to support the operation of the Project. - The range of activities that will be carried out during operation of the Project, including the hazardous substances used, transported and/or produced. Natural hazards (for example, flooding) and climate change implications have also been considered. 17.3.2 Preliminary Risk Assessment The preliminary risk assessment involves determining the likelihood of the identified hazards occurring and the associated consequences prior to the implementation of mitigation measures. The risk assessment incorporates: 17-2
- identification of relevant people and property hazards (minor and major); - the likelihood of potential hazards occurring (for example, accidents, spillages and abnormal events); - the consequence of the potential hazards, focusing on people and property impacts, prior to the implementation of any controls; and - calculation of the risk rating of potential hazards without controls to determine the risk profiles pre- and postmitigation. Table 17-1 details the Risk Matrix which was used to determine likelihood and consequence pre- and postmitigation. The shading and numerical coding in the risk matrix refers to qualitative bands of risk level (Risk ratings from 21 to 25 are considered to be High, 13 to 20 Significant, 6 to 12 Medium and 1 to 5 Low ). 17.3.3 Identification of Mitigation Measures Having identified the range of hazards likely to occur at the Project site, the following matters were considered for each hazard: - Appropriate controls and mitigation factors expected to be put in place for the management of each hazard. These may include prevention and response measures. - The consequences of each of the hazardous incidents if they were to occur post-mitigation. Mitigation and control measures were identified to reduce the risks associated with the hazards identified during the risk workshop (Appendix U). Mitigation and control measures are proposed in accordance with the hierarchy of control measures. Callide Mine has a comprehensive range of standards managed under the Safety, Health and Environment Management System (SHEMS). These standards are based upon Australian Standards as well as company operational experience to meet or exceed accepted standards in these areas. These company standards will be adopted and applied to reduce the hazard and risk associated with the Project. 17-3
Table 17-1 Anglo American risk assessment matrix 17-4
17.4 Potential Impacts Hazards associated with the construction and operation of the Project are similar to those associated with existing mining operations in Queensland. Typical hazards expected include: - Hazardous materials and dangerous goods use, handling and transportation may result in spills and leaks. - Fuel spills storage, handling and transportation of fuel and oils may result in spills and leaks. - Transport vehicle interactions with people, wildlife and other vehicles on- and off-site. - Climatic/natural events undertaking activities in adverse weather conditions such as storms, lightning strikes, slippery conditions after rainfall as well as injury/asset damage associated with flooding and heavy rainfall events. - Ground failure inadequate design or implementation, unidentified geological abnormalities, unidentified hydrogeological impacts or unmitigated changes in conditions. - Use of explosives misfires, premature detonation, miscommunication to bystanders, over charge, air blast overpressure. - Uncontrolled or unintended movement of vehicles or equipment operator complacency, equipment failure, incorrect isolation techniques. - Fire bushfires, equipment fire (mobile equipment, switch rooms), vehicle fires (hot engine components, tyres, oil) and office fires (electrical faults, cooking equipment). - Disease vectors mosquitoes and other pathogens. - Biological hazards interaction with livestock, vermin and venomous fauna. The following preliminary risk assessment tables show the results of the raw risk profile (pre-mitigation) and the residual risk profile (post-mitigation). The tables present the results in the following order: - the issue that may impact on the health and safety of personnel and the community; - a description of the issue; - a description of the consequence; - the control measures established to address each risk; and - a residual risk ranking for each issue. Table 17-2 identifies the potential risks to people and property during construction and operation of the Project. The potential risks identified for this assessment are considered to be relevant during both the construction and operation of the Project. 17-5
Table 17-2 Potential risks to people and property throughout construction and operation Pre-mitigation Post-mitigation Issue Description Impact Likelihood Consequence Risk Ranking Proposed Mitigation Likelihood Consequence Risk Ranking Major (>200L) Hazardous chemical spill Major spillage of dangerous goods and/or hazardous substances Injuries to site personnel (burns, respiratory problems) Environmental harm 4 3 17 Significant Storage and handling of hazardous materials in accordance with AS1940 and Callide Mine procedure. Continue to implement waste management measures as part of existing operations. 2 3 9 Medium Update Callide Mine Emergency Management Plans and Procedures. Minor (<200L) Hazardous chemical spill Minor spillage of dangerous goods and/or hazardous substances Injuries to site personnel (burns, respiratory problems) Environmental harm 4 2 12 Medium Storage and handling of hazardous materials in accordance with AS1940 and Callide Mine procedure. Continue to implement waste management measures as part of existing operations. 3 2 8 Medium Update Callide Mine Emergency Management Plans and Procedures. Major fire Major (uncontrolled) fire other than bushfire Fatalities and injuries to site personnel On-site asset damage Potential off site structural damage Environmental harm 2 5 19 Significant Storage and handling of hazardous materials in accordance with AS1940 and Callide Mine procedure. Fire suppression systems to be designed to Australian Standards. Design infrastructure in accordance with Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008. 2 3 9 Medium Update Callide Mine Emergency Management Plans and Procedures. 17-6
Issue Description Impact Minor fire Minor (controllable) fire other than bushfire Pre-mitigation Likelihood Consequence Injuries to site personnel 3 3 13 Risk Ranking Significant Proposed Mitigation Storage and handling of hazardous materials in accordance with AS1940 and Callide Mine procedure. Fire suppression systems to be designed to Australian Standards. Design infrastructure in accordance with Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008. Post-mitigation Likelihood Consequence Risk Ranking 2 2 5 Low Update Callide Mine Emergency Management Plans and Procedures. Bushfire Uncontrolled bushfire Fatalities and injuries to site personnel and community On-site asset damage 3 5 22 High Update and implement Callide Mine Fire Management Plan and Emergency Response Procedures. 2 3 9 Medium Potential off site structural damage Severe weather events Severe weather event such as a storm resulting in flooding of the pit Injuries to site personnel On-site structural damage 2 3 9 Medium Flood prevention measures included in mine water management system. Asset protection zone to be developed to comply with State Planning Policy 1/03 Guideline. 2 2 5 Low Update Callide Mine Emergency Management Plans and Procedures. Climate change Changed climatic variables (e.g. increased storm activity) Injury to site personnel On-site asset damage 2 2 5 Low (Refer to Chapter 5 Climate for detailed mitigation measures for each potential climatic variable). Update Callide Mine Emergency Management Plans and Procedures. 2 2 5 Low 17-7
Issue Description Impact Disease Vectors Increased number of disease vectors including mosquitoes and rats Pre-mitigation Likelihood Consequence Risk Ranking Health concerns 3 2 8 Medium Proposed Mitigation All site personnel will wear appropriate PPE in the field and where appropriate, use insect repellent and ensure first aid kits (including snake bite kits) are available. Pest Management Plan to be implemented, as required. Post-mitigation Likelihood Consequence Risk Ranking 2 1 2 Low Awareness of appropriate hygiene will be developed through staff induction and training. Wildlife Hazards Exposure of workforce to cattle, pests, snakes and vermin Injury to site personnel 3 2 8 Medium Appropriate PPE will be provided including gloves where appropriate. First aid kits including snake bite kits will be made available. 2 2 5 Low Awareness of appropriate conduct will be developed through staff induction and training. Appropriate staff to undergo snake handling training, as per existing operations. 17-8
17.4.1 Hazard and Risk Identification 17.4.1.1 Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Substances The construction and operation of the Project will involve the handling and transportation of dangerous goods and hazardous substances as listed in the ADG Code (7 th Edition). It is unlikely that any new hazardous substances will be introduced by the Project that are not already used and managed at the existing Callide Mine. A full list of substances likely to be stored on-site is detailed in Table 17-3. Dangerous goods and hazardous materials have the potential to pose a risk to the health and safety of people during the construction and operational phases of the Project. Dangerous goods may cause fires or explosions, rapid chemical reactions or immediate health risks such as poisoning. Hazardous materials used on-site will be managed in accordance with Callide Mine procedure and the relevant Australian Standards including: - AS1940: 2004 The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids (Standards Australia, 2004); - AS/NZS 4452:1997 The Storage and Handling of Toxic Substances (Standards Australia, 1997); and - AS 3780:1994 The Storage and Handling of Corrosive Substances (Standards Australia, 2008a). Licenses and permits will be obtained in consultation with the relevant authorities, where required. In addition, the following general requirements will be applied to the transport, storage and handling of environmentally hazardous substances during both construction and operation of the Project: - Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS s) for dangerous goods will be available at the main office and at storage locations during both construction and operation. - Procedures should be used for loading, unloading and handling hazardous materials. - Transport activities on gazetted roads will comply with requirements of the ADG Code (7 th Edition). - Any storage facilities will conform to the requirements under relevant Australian Standards. - General requirements in relation to environmentally hazardous substances will be covered in inductions and reviewed in toolbox talks. - Adequate bunding will be used where storages are not self bunded. To minimise risk to people and property and to ensure compliance with relevant standards, only licensed transporters operating in compliance with the ADG Code (7 th Edition) will undertake the transport of any regulated dangerous goods on designated roads. Current handling procedures will be utilised throughout the Project construction and operation. The likelihood of workers coming into contact with a large volume of dangerous goods and hazardous substances is considered to be unlikely. Based on the mitigation options that will be implemented and enforced, the effect of storing and transporting potentially hazardous substances is ranked as medium. The probability of workers coming into contact with a smaller volume of dangerous goods or hazardous substances is considered to be possible, resulting in a minor consequence such as medical treatment. 17-9
Table 17-3 Substances likely to be used, stored or transported on-site Hazardous Material Details Likely Quantity Storage Method Sewage (blackwater) Sewage collected and treated on-site at existing site offices. 50 to 60 L/person/day AS 1547 (Standards Australia, 2012) At site offices and maintenance sheds, assuming there is no municipal sewage network that can be connected into, sewage will be stored and treated in an on-site package sewage treatment facility. This will need to be designed to comply with relevant legislation, codes and standards, including Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code 2011, AS1547 (Standards Australia, 2012), AS1546 (Standards Australia, 2008b), AS3500 (Standards Australia, 2003), and relevant environmental regulations. There is an existing sewage treatment facility and site based management plan for current operations at Callide Mine. Process reagents A number of reagents are used during the treatment of blackwater / greywater. These may include chlorine, chlorine dioxide, chloramine, hypochlorite, ozone, flocculants or coagulants, and acids or alkalis. Minimal (in the order of 1 to 2 chlorine cylinders per facility, other reagents in quantities ~1 m³) Reagents will be stored and handled in accordance with Australian Standards and Queensland regulations. This is expected to include: - AS 2927 (Standards Australia, 2001a) - AS 3780 (Standards Australia, 2008a) - WHS Act Chlorine and other reagents are typically stored in cylinders and drums / tanks, designed in accordance with the above standards. Fuels Portable self-bunded, double lined diesel tanks are used for refuelling mining equipment. Up to 60,000 L of diesel Stored in accordance with Australian Standards: - AS 1692 (Standards Australia, 2006) - AS 1940 (Standards Australia, 2004) Mineral oils Mineral oils such as lubricants and coolants used for maintenance / servicing of plant and vehicles. - All storage, refuelling and maintenance areas will include bunding and impermeable floors where possible. Contaminated soil Excavated soil can be potentially contaminated. This may be from historical land uses, the construction phase or general operations. Causes include spills, leaks and poor disposal methods. Dependent on site conditions encountered. Historical contamination is expected to be minimal (refer to Chapter 6 Land) and correct handling and clean-up techniques are expected to minimise contaminated land during construction and operation. Manage on site in accordance with the Guideline for Contaminated Land Professionals (2013) and other relevant standards, guidelines and legislation. 17-10
Hazardous Material Details Likely Quantity Storage Method Explosives Herbicides Blasting explosives will be used for excavation. Commonly, Fortan Coal, Flexigel Coal (99.7% emulsion, 0.3% polystyrene) and Fortis Coal (70% emulsion, 29.5% ammonium nitrate and 0.5% gas) will be used. Also, detonating cord, Goldets detonators, connectadet detonators, and non-electric and electric detonators will be used. Herbicides will be used for weed control, both during construction and operations. The herbicides used will depend on the weed species present, but may include fluroxypyr, triclopyr, glyphosate, picloram, dichlorprop, dicamba, amitrola. Blasting explosives are mixed daily as required, with quantities of the explosive up to 300 t per day, depending on blasting requirements. Ammonium nitrate, fuel oil (typically diesel fuel), detonators and boosters will be stored separately. Blasting explosives will be stored in accordance with: - AS 2187.1 (Standards Australia, 2006b) - AS 2187.2 (Standards Australia, 2006b) - Explosive Act 1999 and Explosive Regulation 2003 (Qld) - Department of Transport and Main Roads specifications - Callide Mine s Blasting Explosives Management Plan (BEMP). - Bulk herbicides are stored off-site. On-site, herbicides are housed in road / rail spray trucks with treatment typically occurring three times a year using licensed operators in accordance with existing Callide Mine procedure. 17-11
17.4.1.2 Fire Fire hazards during construction are likely to be associated with construction works such as hot works and use of machinery, equipment and vehicles igniting dry combustible materials in work areas. Such fires may arise due to sparks or heat from engines or as a result of human behaviour such as the careless disposal of cigarettes and matches. Potentially combustible material can include dry vegetation, cardboard and paper packing material, and mulched vegetation. Fuel, oil and flammable liquid spills also increase the risk of fire. During the operation of the Project, fires may result from a number of activities including, but not limited to: - the storage and handling of dangerous goods and hazardous substances; - site works such as welding and hot works; - use of machinery; - use of vehicles; - lightning strikes; - bush fires; and - human behaviour (for example, disposal of cigarette butts). There is also the potential for spontaneous combustion of coal stored in stockpiles or present in mine pits and overburden areas. Spontaneous combustion may result in fire and smoke impacting Callide Mine employees and surrounding landholders. Current management practices at Callide Mine adequately mitigate spontaneous combustion and therefore additional risk due to the project is unlikely. Management systems and measures currently implemented to reduce the risk of occurrence and manage any occurrences will continue to be employed at the Project site. Callide Mine approved emergency management procedures, as well as standard operating procedures, are used to manage the risks associated with coal stockpile fires. This strategy includes: - identifying potential areas that may be prone to spontaneous combustion or fire outbreaks before an outbreak occurs; - monitoring potential spontaneous combustion and fire risk areas; - identifying and implementing measures to minimise and/or reduce the risk of fire and spontaneous combustion at identified locations; and - regularly reviewing site practices relating to fire and spontaneous combustion management and update procedures and plans as necessary. For the purpose of this assessment, it was proposed that the most feasible fire risk is the potential for a controllable fire to result from construction activities for example, a manageable, localised fire ignited by engine sparking. The likelihood of an significant risk fire (single or multiple fatality and/or major infrastructure damage), such as one associated with an explosion of stored dangerous goods or hazardous substances, was deemed to be unlikely due to the stringent storage, handling and management practices which will be implemented during all phases of the Project. To reduce the risk of fires during construction of the Project, fire management (detection and prevention) measures should be implemented. These include the implementation of workforce training, operational procedures and hot work permitting requirements, housekeeping and maintenance regimes, the provision of suitable fire fighting equipment, and the review and implementation of emergency management procedures and plans. 17.4.1.3 Natural Hazards A natural hazard is a naturally occurring situation or condition with the potential to result in loss or harm to the community and/or environment (DLPG & DES, 2003). The construction and operation of the Project may increase the risk of certain natural hazards occurring. Similarly, the occurrence of natural hazards may also cause or exacerbate the effects of Project-related hazards on the site workers, surrounding community and the operational capability of the Project. For the purpose of this assessment, the following natural hazards have been identified as relevant to the Project: - bushfires; 17-12
- landslides; and - severe weather events. 17.4.1.4 Bushfire The main bushfire risks are associated with potential impacts of bushfires on: - construction and operations, particularly the exposure of employees, coal storage and transportation equipment to bushfires; and - Callide Mine assets associated with the Project including the site offices, process plants, maintenance areas and other Project related infrastructure and equipment. The vulnerability of the area to bushfires is assessed in Chapter 5 Climate. Ecological risks associated with bushfires are addressed in Chapter 12A Terrestrial Ecology. It was determined that the likelihood of a bushfire affecting the Project and surrounding properties is unlikely. The consequence was ranked as medium. Callide Mine has a regulatory obligation to maintain an effective fire response capability and to control fires on its landholding. The risk of bushfires is currently managed at the existing Callide Mine operations through the implementation of a Fire Management Plan which includes provision of fire breaks, clearance distances, fire fighting capabilities and emergency management. The Fire Management Plan should be revised for the proposed Project to ensure that the risk to the mine site and surrounding properties is managed appropriately. 17.4.1.5 Landslides A landslide is defined as a movement of material downslope in a mass as a result of shear failure at the boundaries of the mass (DLPG & DES, 2003). The soils that have been identified in the Project area exhibit characteristics that are not expected to be problematic for the construction and operation of the Project, as discussed in Chapter 6 Land. 17.4.1.6 Severe Weather Events A tropical cyclone is an area of low pressure that develops into a major storm system, bringing heavy rains and strong winds. Australia's tropical cyclone season is usually from November to April inclusive and affects most of the Queensland coast. Biloela is not located in a known cyclone area; however, historically has been significantly impacted by extreme weather events, such as Tropical Cyclone Oswald in January 2013. Severe storms occurring in the wet season (November to February) may impact the Project economics due to potential construction delays, disruptions to operations and personnel injuries. Storm impacts are more likely to be localised, whereas impacts from a tropical cyclone are typically widespread. Storm and cyclone effects may include damage from torrential rain, high wind, hail and lightning. Localised flooding can also occur when parts of the stormwater drainage systems (such as pipes, gully traps and minor culverts) are blocked or capacity is exceeded. The main impacts on the Project operations from severe weather may include: - embankment instability; - flooding of access roads; and - damage to overhead power supply. These impacts can be addressed relatively quickly after an extreme weather event and are unlikely to compromise the long term integrity of the mine. As such, the risk of a severe weather event resulting in injuries and structural damage during both construction and operation was ranked as low. To mitigate the effects of severe weather, the infrastructure will be designed in accordance with legislative requirements. Existing Callide Mine emergency response procedures and Trigger Action Response Plans (TARPs) will also be implemented to minimise risk to people and assets against the effects of cyclones and severe weather events. 17.4.1.7 Flooding A flood event that occurs during the construction or operation of the Project may result in the following: 17-13
- injuries associated with working in wet weather conditions, such as slips, trips and falls resulting from unstable surfaces; - vehicular incidents resulting from workers and contractors driving in wet weather conditions; - damage to equipment, such as vehicles becoming bogged; - delays to the construction schedule; and - disruptions to production. Overall, impacts from flooding during construction are expected to be minimal as flooding impacts are confined to specific areas on site. It is anticipated that there will be no flooding impacts on surrounding properties caused by Callide Mine s operations. The likelihood of inundation and consequent damage to the infrastructure is considered to be unlikely. During the operational phase, there is potential for heavy rainfall to result in flooding of the pit. This is not anticipated to result in injuries to personnel due to the implementation of standard Callide Mine procedures including the Water Management Plan which specifies the inclusion of pumping infrastructure and Emergency Management Plan which enforces a cease work policy during extreme rainfall events. Callide Mine also implement Inclement Weather Procedures under a TARP process. To mitigate the effects of flooding on the Project workforce and property, current TARP processes will be utilised, along with engineered controls, where feasible. These include the construction of levees to prevent the operating pit from flooding, and updating Callide Mine s existing emergency response procedures. Emergency response procedures should be updated to mitigate any effects of flooding on the health and safety of personnel resulting from the Project. 17.4.1.8 Climate Change Identification of the potential impacts from climate change and mitigation measures are provided in Chapter 5 Climate. The likelihood of climate change affecting people and property during the construction of the Project is anticipated to be unlikely. The risk of implications of climate change on the health, safety and wellbeing of people as well as the integrity of the mine during operations was ranked as low. This ranking reflects the findings in Chapter 5, which show that flooding and fire are the only events likely to have an impact. The majority of climatic events are projected to have a low to negligible impact on the Project. Mitigation measures should be incorporated into the design of the mine to adapt to the effects of climate change, as required. These measures are detailed in Chapter 5 Climate. 17.4.1.9 Disease Vectors and Wildlife Hazards The risk of disease vectors negatively impacting the Callide Mine workforce was ranked as low. This low ranking reflects the implementation of a range of mitigation measures including the design of adequate drainage, suitable waste management practices and provision of appropriate PPE. Wildlife hazards are hazards which can cause harm to humans through bites or stings. The most relevant to this assessment are snakes and spiders. It is not expected that the Project site will be exposed to an elevated risk of disease vectors or pests such as mosquitoes, rodents or water-borne disease. Similarly, it is not anticipated that those involved in or near the Project will be exposed to an elevated risk of wildlife hazards such as snakes and spiders. However, to minimise any potential wildlife or disease vector risks, a range of management measures will be adopted. These include: - designing all fixed building infrastructure in accordance with AS/NZS 3500.3:2003: Plumbing and Drainage Storm water Drainage to ensure that personnel and members of the public do not become susceptible to water borne diseases; - minimising stagnant pools of water on site during construction and operation; - implementing operational mosquito management; - providing fencing and screening where appropriate to prevent hazardous wildlife from entering the workplace; - providing appropriate PPE; and 17-14
- providing training on the risks associated with hazardous wildlife. 17.5 Mitigation Measures Callide Mine is committed to addressing hazards and risks which may adversely impact people and property during construction, operation and decommissioning of the Project. Table 17-4 summarises mitigation strategies proposed for the Project. Table 17-4 Risk mitigation measures Issue Proposed Mitigation Chemical hazard - All dangerous goods will be managed and transported in accordance with requirements of relevant legislation and standards. - Only appropriately trained and qualified personnel will be allowed to handle dangerous goods. - Licensed operators will handle, store and transport explosives in accordance with a safe work plan that complies with relevant standards. - Where possible, leaks of fuel, oil and other chemicals will be controlled by appropriate infrastructure design (AS 1692:2006) and bunded areas to contain spills (AS 1940:2004), tank level indicators to monitor levels and appropriate maintenance to ensure safe operation. - Spill kits will be available at appropriate locations. Fire - Relevant Callide Mine employees and contractors should attend fire training, as part of site induction process, and complete fire and evacuation drills. - The Callide Mine Fire Management Plan will be utilised for the Project to address the risk of a bushfire impacting the workforce and/or surrounding community. - Similarly, appropriate emergency procedures will be updated to include the Project site. Natural hazards including flooding - Adequate drainage will be provided, where feasible. - Appropriate emergency procedures will be used within the Project site. Disease vectors - Adequate drainage will be provided to prevent pooling of water, where feasible. - Site personnel will wear appropriate PPE. - Awareness will be developed through staff training. Wildlife hazards - Appropriate PPE will be provided including gloves where needed. - First aid kits will be made available. - Awareness of appropriate conduct will be developed through staff induction and training. - Appropriate staff to undergo snake handling training, as per existing operations. 17.5.1 Integrated Risk Management Plan Prior to the commencement of Project works, Callide Mine will update the current risk management plan. The integrated risk management plan should incorporate risks associated with the whole of the life of the Project, including construction, operation and decommissioning phases. The integrated risk management plan will be an update to Callide Mine s existing Emergency Management Plan and should include: - operational hazard analysis; - periodic hazard audits; - fire safety measures; and - emergency response plans. Potential emergency situations that could arise during the construction, operation and decommissioning of the Project include: - natural hazards such flood or bushfire; - spills of hazardous materials during construction or operations; and - workplace incidents. The existing Callide Mine Emergency Management Plan should be updated, where required, for use on the Project. This Emergency Management Plan provides a guide for the management of emergencies such as fire, 17-15
flood, landslide, dam collapse, fuel spill, explosion or radiation, which could affect operations or increase the hazard exposure of its employees and also of the wider community. The Emergency Management Plan is a component of the existing SHEMS. The Emergency Management Plan incorporates the following components: - an analysis of the key incidents likely to be relevant for each operational area; - an assessment of the likely magnitude of impacts; - an assessment of what can be defined as an emergency for the particular operation; - an on-site plan to handle these foreseeable incidents and emergencies; - a plan covering off-site emergency services; - communication, emergency responsibilities and establishment of a control centre; - post-emergency procedures, including recovery, debriefing and review of plan; and - emergency plan training and testing sessions. In accordance with Callide Mine s existing emergency management procedures, the following strategies should be implemented during the construction phase: - dangerous goods will be stored, handled and approved as per AS 1940 (Standards Australia, 2004) and relevant legislation; - MSDS s will be located at the site office for all hazardous and dangerous goods stored and used during construction; - spills of hazardous materials or hydrocarbons or will be contained and collected for treatment at a licensed waste disposal facility; and - spill containment and treatment equipment and materials will be available near storage areas of hazardous materials and hydrocarbons. It will be the responsibility of the construction contractors to liaise with the relevant state agencies (including the Queensland Ambulance Service, Rural Fire Service and Police Service) to develop plans for emergency medical response, fire fighting and first aid matters during the construction phase, unless covered by mine operational systems. 17.6 Conclusion Overall, the risks identified in this assessment are considered to be common to mining operations in Queensland and are subject to legislative obligations and control measures that are specified in Commonwealth and State legislation. The outcomes of the risk assessment are documented in a Risk Register presented in Appendix U. This register should be maintained and updated periodically as new information becomes available. Mitigation measures adopted by the Project as a result of this assessment will be incorporated into Callide Mine s existing procedures, where relevant. It is noted that Callide Mine already has comprehensive plans, policies and procedures in place. Health and safety considerations and mitigation measures should be considered for be inclusion in the SHEMS and will be incorporated into standard operating procedures, if deemed necessary. While this assessment provides a high level overview of potential hazards and risks, further risk assessment will be required whenever site conditions or operational practices change to ensure risk mitigation is embedded into the Project throughout the life of the mine. 17.7 References DLPG & DES. (2003). State Planning Policy 1/03 Mitigating the adverse impacts of flood, bushfire and landslide. Brisbane: State of Queensland (Department of Local Government and Planning & Department of Emergency Services). NTC. (2007). Australian code for the transportation of dangerous goods by road and rail (7 ed.). Melbourne: Commonwealth of Australia (National Transport Commission). Standards Australia. (1997). AS/NZS 4452:1997 The storage and handling of toxic substances. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ 17-16
Standards Australia. (2000). AS 2187.2-2000 Explosives - Storage, transport and use (5 volumes). Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2001a). AS/NZS 2927:2001 The storage and handling of liquefied chlorine gas. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Globa: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2001b). AS/NZS 4801:2001 Occupational health and safety management systems - Specification with guidance for use. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com Standards Australia. (2003). AS/NZS 3500 (set):2003 Plumbing and drainage set. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2004). AS 1940-2004 The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2006). AS 1692-2006 Steel tanks for flammable and combustible liquid. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2006b). AS 2187.2-2006 Explosives - Storage and use - Use of explosives. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/details.aspx?productid=261308 Standards Australia. (2008a). AS 3780-2008 The storage and handling of corrosive substances. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store2/details.aspx?productid=1017574 Standards Australia. (2008b). AS/NZS 1546:2008 On-site domestic wastewater treatment units (three volumes). Retrieved 2012, from from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2009b). AS/NZS 31000:2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines. Sydney: SIA Global. Standards Australia. (2009c). AS 3959-2009 Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2010). AS 3745-2010 Planning for emergencies in facilities. Retrieved 10 10, 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store2/details.aspx?productid=1439257 Standards Australia. (2010). HB 76:2010 Dangerous Goods - Initial Emergency Response Guide. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ Standards Australia. (2012). AS/NZS 1547:2012 On-site domestic wastewater management. Retrieved 2012, from SAI Global: http://infostore.saiglobal.com/ 17-17