Proposed guide to tackle ‘adverse vehicle interactions’ at NSW mining sites published for public feedback

Draft TRG Targets Adverse Vehicle Interactions at NSW Mining Sites

A preliminary version of the Technical Reference Guide (TRG) aimed at mitigating ‘adverse vehicle interactions’ within the New South Wales mining sector has been made available for public feedback. This guide sets out practical measures to reduce risk exposure across mine sites where vehicles and pedestrians share operational zones.

The draft was created by NSW Resources Regulator in partnership with the Adverse Vehicle Interactions Advisory Committee, which consists of members from the NSW Minerals Council, Cement Concrete and Aggregates Australia, the Mining and Energy Union, and the Australian Workers Union. This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to improving safety outcomes across NSW mining operations.

Why This Guide Matters for Mine Site Safety

Adverse vehicle interactions remain a persistent hazard on mine sites, contributing to serious incidents involving heavy machinery, light vehicles, and pedestrians. Building on efforts highlighted in our earlier coverage of a rise in vehicle-related incidents at NSW mining sites, this draft TRG offers site operators clearer direction on managing risk through consistent, evidence-based practices.

Resources Regulator personnel worked closely with committee representatives to ensure the guide addresses real-world challenges faced by workers and supervisors on active sites. Its recommendations aim to strengthen existing safety frameworks rather than replace them, giving operators a practical reference point for reviewing current controls.

Public Consultation Period Now Open

The Resources Regulator encourages industry stakeholders to share their feedback on the draft TRG, with the consultation period available for five weeks, commencing on 3 February and concluding on 9 March 2025. Submissions from mining companies, unions, and safety professionals will help shape the guide's final wording before release.

Stakeholders reviewing the draft are encouraged to consider how proposed changes might interact with existing site-specific risk assessments and vehicle management plans. Feedback gathered during this window will directly inform revisions made ahead of the guide's formal adoption.

Supporting Broader Industry Efforts

This consultation builds on a wider push across NSW to reduce vehicle-related harm at mining operations. Readers may recall our report on a new strategy seeking to bolster vehicle safety at NSW mine sites, alongside a related video focusing on vehicle-related incidents at NSW mine sites, both of which underscore ongoing regulator attention to this issue.

For organisations reviewing internal documentation, resources such as SafetyDocs' Vehicle Policy template and Policies & Procedures Product Guide can support alignment with emerging guidance once finalised. Sites managing contractor movements or public access may also benefit from reviewing a Construction Sites Dealing with the Public SWMS as part of broader risk planning.

How to Get Involved

• Review the draft TRG published by NSW Resources Regulator
• Submit feedback before the consultation closes on 9 March 2025
• Assess how proposed measures align with current site safety plans
• Engage relevant teams, including energy and operations personnel, in the review process

Find out more here.