Faulty breathing apparatuses discovered in South Coast mine

A number of defective breathing apparatuses have been identified in a South Coast coalmine, according to the New South Wales Resources Regulator. The units are kept underground in several mines to help workers escape in an emergency. While not all units have the defect, those that do leak air while being worn.

The Regulator has contacted the equipment supplier, as well as the mines using the equipment to determine what actions they are taking to ensure workers’ safety. It is “taking this matter very seriously and will exercise its powers as required if it is determined the safety of workers is being compromised”.

The Regulator said impacted mines are currently testing units and have implemented various contingency plans, including temporarily removing workers from underground and sourcing alternative equipment to maintain appropriate emergency escape capability.

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