Mine safety authority releases animation after devastating tire malfunction

In brief: The NSW Resources Regulator — the state's mine safety authority — has released an animation reconstructing a devastating truck tyre malfunction at Clovass Quarry on 8 February 2024 that left two workers with injuries.

• What occurred: A truck tyre failed catastrophically inside a quarry workshop.
• When: 8 February 2024.
• Who was hurt: Two workers sustained injuries.
• Why operators should care: Pressurised tyres store enormous energy, and hazards must be identified before any servicing task begins.

What happened at Clovass Quarry

The event took place in the quarry workshop when the pair were attempting to find an air leak in the tyre while it was attached to a tyre-fitting machine and being filled with compressed air.

Animated reconstructions such as this one help maintenance crews visualise how rapidly stored energy inside a pressurised assembly can be unleashed. Regulators increasingly publish these visual tools because footage-style learning lands with workshop teams far better than a written notice alone.

Safety lessons for quarry and mine operators

Every incident involving pressurised tyres reinforces the value of documented procedures, exclusion zones, competent fitters and controls that protect the long-term health of workshop personnel. Practical measures worth reviewing include:

• Fully deflate tyres before investigating leaks or disturbing rim components.
• Inflate remotely, using extension hoses and clip-on chucks, then stand outside the trajectory zone.
• Restrict workshop entry while any assembly remains under pressure.
• Confirm fitters hold current competencies for the tyre-fitting equipment in use.
• Log inspections, repairs and pressure checks so records support verification activities.

Duties covering worker health and site safety

“Quarry and mine operators are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013 and Regulations” the Regulator said.

Read the full details, along with the animation itself, on the NSW Resources Regulator website.

Related reading and resources

• NSW mine safety regulator releases its quarterly compliance and enforcement report
• Safety warning issued after a South Australian mine worker sustained serious injuries
• Safety alert follows an underground arm amputation at a mining operation
• Workplace Safety Rules – NZ template for briefing crews ahead of maintenance tasks

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