An electrical fault inside the cabin of an underground production drill prompted an emergency response at a New South Wales metals mine earlier this month, with workers retreating to refuge chambers as the fire was brought under control.
According to the NSW Resources Regulator, the fire was traced to a fuse box inside the operator’s cabin.
Investigators found the lid on a 24V fuse box was loose, and a 10A blade fuse had become partially dislodged, creating a hot join that ignited the fire.
The drill operator activated the machine’s automatic fire suppression system before donning a self-rescuer and extinguishing the fire using a handheld extinguisher.
The incident prompted all underground personnel to retreat to refuge chambers while the situation was managed.
In its industry recommendations, the regulator said mine operators should ensure covers, guards and associated electrical equipment are installed, inspected and maintained in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and site electrical engineering standards.
The regulator also called for maintenance and inspection procedures that verify equipment remains fit for purpose and free from defects that could compromise safe operation.
Inspection programs should also include checks to ensure fuse assemblies, terminals and electrical connections remain secure and show no signs of overheating, arcing, deterioration or thermal damage.
Subscribe to Safe to Work for the safety news that matters most to the Australian mining industry.
