Resources Regulator releases annual report concerning fires on mobile plant

NSW Resources Regulator Releases Annual Report Concerning Fires on Mobile Plant

The NSW Resources Regulator has released the 'Fires on mobile plant annual report FY24,' which provides comprehensive data on reported incidents involving fires associated with mobile plant equipment (FOMP). The report offers valuable insight for safety professionals across the mining industry in Australia.

Key Findings from the Report

The report indicates there was an 8% rise in reported fire incidents involving mobile plant compared to the prior year. This upward trend raises fresh concerns for industry operators responsible for maintaining robust fire prevention systems.

According to the report, the total number of FOMP incidents reported, which stands at 206, represents the third highest figure recorded in the past decade, falling just 2 incidents short of the peak total of 208 observed in FY 2021.

• 206 total incidents reported in FY24
• 8% increase from previous reporting period
• Third highest annual total in ten years
• Only 2 incidents fewer than the FY 2021 peak

Regulator's Position on Safety Compliance

The Regulator says "all fires on mobile plant are avoidable and preventable and we have adopted a zero tolerance approach where mine operators have not taken appropriate steps to manage this risk." This statement reinforces expectations placed on every mine site to prioritise fire safety across all mobile plant systems.

For technical professionals managing plant systems, this news underscores why proactive maintenance systems and inspection protocols remain critical safety measures. Robust earthmoving and mobile plant safe work method statements can help operators document safety procedures and reduce fire-related incidents on site.

Why This Report Matters for Industry Stakeholders

Rising incident numbers highlight an ongoing safety challenge for the resources industry. Operators using telehandlers, loaders and attachments should review their existing safety systems against current regulator guidance to ensure compliance.

Businesses can strengthen their approach with resources such as telehandler safe work method statements, mobile plant attachment safety documentation, and mini loader safety templates, all designed to support safer plant operation across industry sites.

Effective workforce planning also plays a role in fire prevention outcomes. Reviewing human resources management plans alongside plant maintenance schedules helps ensure staff receive proper training on fire risk systems and emergency response procedures.

Related Regulatory News

This report follows other recent updates from the Regulator, including the quarterly safety report and the compliance priority report on psychosocial awareness, both offering further context on evolving safety expectations across the sector.

The full report is accessible here.