NSW mine safety regulator conducts successful road safety campaign

The NSW mine safety regulator has run a successful road safety campaign after reports flagged a high number of incidents involving mobile plant and machinery on mine roads across the state over the past year.

This targeted push forms part of the regulator's broader commitment to protecting workers, building on earlier efforts detailed in NSW Resource Regulator Taking Mine Safety Message on the Road.

Campaign Reach and Engagement

NSW Resources Regulator engaged with more than 9,500 mine workers and supervisors during a 10 day campaign focused on safe driving practices and hazard awareness.

Forty-five inspectors delivered 191 presentations at 21 open cut surface coal mines, plus 25 surface extractives mines and large quarries across the state, reaching operations from metropolitan hubs to remote regional sites throughout Australia.

• 9,500+ mine workers and supervisors engaged
• 191 presentations delivered by 45 inspectors
• 21 open cut surface coal mines visited
• 25 surface extractives mines and large quarries covered

Why the Road Safety Campaign Matters

Mine roads present unique transport hazards that differ significantly from public highways. Heavy vehicles, restricted visibility and shared access points between plant and personnel all raise risk levels considerably.

Effective transport safety on site depends on clear procedures, consistent driver training and strong communication between operators and pedestrians. For sites reviewing their own systems, our Road Safety Barrier Installation SWMS offers a practical starting point for managing vehicle and pedestrian separation.

The Purpose Behind the Campaign

Officials designed this initiative to remind every mine worker that they hold a role in keeping their workplace safe. Supervisors were also encouraged to prompt employers toward developing robust workplace transport procedures.

Building safety awareness within the wider mining community requires sustained effort beyond a single campaign. Sites can strengthen their compliance posture through supporting tools such as our Electrical Safety Policy and Electrical Safety Checklist, which complement transport safety measures as part of a holistic risk management approach.

Ongoing Efforts Across NSW

This road safety campaign follows a pattern of proactive engagement from the regulator, echoing initiatives outlined in NSW set to launch high visibility campaign focused on mine safety and reported quarterly through NSW Mine Safety Regulator Releases Quarterly Safety Report.

Consistent transport safety messaging, paired with regular site inspections, helps reduce incident rates across coal mines and extractive operations alike. Mining businesses seeking further support with documentation or compliance software can visit our Support page for assistance, or explore our Safety Software solutions to streamline transport safety management.

Further information on the campaign can be found via the NSW Resources Regulator's official channels.