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Spontaneous Combustion Management Standard Australia
Spontaneous combustion in underground coal mines represents one of the most significant safety hazards facing the Australian mining industry. Implementing a comprehensive combustion management standard Australia framework is essential for protecting workers and maintaining operational continuity across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania coal mining operations.
PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This spontaneous combustion management standard Australia establishes minimum risk management requirements for underground coal mining operations. The standard applies to coal mines, mine managers, ventilation officers, deputies, safety officers, environmental managers, and underground workers. This combustion management standard Australia implements Principal Mining Hazard Management Plan (PMHMP) requirements per WHS (Mines) Regulations across all Australian jurisdictions.
1.0 RISK ASSESSMENT AND COAL TESTING
Coal Propensity Testing Requirements
All coal seams impacted by mining require spontaneous combustion propensity testing prior to first production panel under this combustion management standard Australia.
| Test Type | Methodology | Acceptance Criteria |
| Crossing Point Temperature (CPT) | ACIRL Test or equivalent | <140°C = High Risk; 140-170°C = Moderate; >170°C = Low |
| Self-Heating Rate (R70) | Adiabatic oven test at 70°C | >15°C/hour = Critical; 10-15°C/hour = High; <10°C/hour = Moderate |
| Wet Oxidation Potential | AS 4264.2 test | Determine coal moisture impact on oxidation rate |
| Historical Review | Mine/seam heating events | Document previous incidents within coal measures |
Risk Assessment Team Requirements
Independent facilitator (external to operations) coordinates risk assessment per this combustion management standard Australia including:
- Workforce representation (deputies, coal mine workers)
- External person experienced in spontaneous combustion management
- Ventilation officer or qualified mine ventilation engineer
- Mine manager or statutory appointee
- Safety and environmental representatives
Spontaneous Combustion Management Plan (SCMP)
Develop site-specific SCMP per MDG 1006 and this combustion management standard Australia including:
- Coal propensity data and seam characteristics
- Mine-specific heating indicators (gaseous and physical)
- Trigger Action Response Plans (TARPs) with escalation protocols
- Inertisation procedures and equipment register
- Emergency sealing locations and material inventory
- Training matrix and competency requirements (RIIMCU501D)
- Audit and review schedule
- Environmental controls for spoil management
Consultant Engagement: Engage specialist with CPEng (mining/ventilation) qualification for SCMP development, coal testing interpretation, and complex heating event response per this spontaneous combustion management standard Australia.
2.0 VENTILATION DESIGN AND MONITORING
Ventilation System Design Parameters
Safety officers verify ventilation design compliance with this combustion management standard Australia:
| Parameter | Specification | Verification Responsibility |
| Goaf Ventilation | Minimum goaf inflow to maintain O₂ <10% at goaf edge | Ventilation Officer (design); Safety Officer (verify implementation) |
| Face Ventilation Quantity | ≥0.3 m³/s per person; minimum 1.5 m³/s per face | Deputy (daily verification); Safety Officer (weekly audit) |
| Goaf Sealing Timing | Seal within 5 days of final cut-through (QLD); jurisdiction-specific | Production Manager (schedule); Safety Officer (compliance verification) |
| Bleeder Ventilation (if used) | Maintain positive pressure gradient across sealed goaf | Ventilation Officer (design); Deputy (weekly verification) |
| Flanking Airway Design | Single-pass airflow; no recirculation through adjacent panels | Ventilation Engineer (design approval stage) |
Consultant Verification: Complex ventilation designs require independent review by qualified ventilation consultant per this spontaneous combustion management standard Australia.
Gas Monitoring Locations
Mandatory tube bundle or real-time monitoring points per this combustion management standard Australia:
- Maingate and tailgate return airways (≤50 m from goaf edge)
- Behind each stopping line in retreat panels
- Sealed goaf areas (boreholes or breakthrough points)
- Bleeder airways (if applicable)
- Main return airways upstream of surface fans
Safety Officer Responsibility: Verify monitoring locations installed per SCMP; conduct monthly compliance audits.
Atmospheric Monitoring Parameters
| Gas/Parameter | Normal Range | Alert Level | Action Level | Immediate Withdrawal |
| Carbon Monoxide (CO) | <5 ppm | 10 ppm | 30 ppm | 50 ppm |
| Oxygen (O₂) | 19.5-21% | <19% or >21.5% | <18% or >22% | <17% |
| Graham’s Ratio (CO/CO₂) | <0.001 | 0.002 | 0.005 | 0.01 |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) | <0.5% | 1.0% | 1.5% | 2.5% |
| Hydrogen (H₂) | Nil | 20 ppm | 50 ppm | 100 ppm |
State-Specific: NSW mines operating under Coal Mine Health & Safety Regulation: additional monitoring per Safety Management Plan requirements. QLD mines: PMHMP must specify trigger levels approved by SSE/Mine Manager per this combustion management standard Australia.
3.0 PRE-OPERATIONAL INSPECTIONS AND DAILY CHECKS
Daily Pre-Start Inspection Checklist (Deputy/Safety Officer)
Safety officers conduct or verify the following daily checks per this spontaneous combustion management standard Australia:
Ventilation System Verification:
- Main fan operational with correct pressure/flow readings recorded
- Auxiliary fans operational at active faces
- No damage to ventilation doors, stoppings, or seals observed
- Airflow direction verified at key junctions
- No blockages or restrictions in main airways identified
Gas Monitoring Equipment:
- Tube bundle pump operational (if manual system)
- Continuous monitoring system alarm tested (if real-time system)
- Portable gas detectors calibrated and functional
- Gas sample bags available for manual sampling
- Monitoring locations accessible and clearly marked
Physical Indicators Inspection:
- No unusual odours detected in return airways
- No haze or smoke visible in ventilation system
- No warm air flows or temperature anomalies detected
- No condensation on airway surfaces (excluding normal moisture)
- No discolouration of coal surfaces observed
Seal Integrity (Active Goaf Areas):
- No cracks or damage to seal structure
- No air leakage detected around seal perimeter
- Monitoring tubes intact and protected
- Pressure differential across seal within design parameters
- No heating indicators observed near seal location
Documentation:
- Previous shift report reviewed for any abnormal conditions
- Gas monitoring results from last 24 hours reviewed
- Any TARP Level 1+ activations communicated to oncoming shift
- Statutory report book entries completed
Deputy Sign-Off: _________________________ Date: _________ Time: _________
4.0 WEEKLY HAZARD INSPECTION SCHEDULE
Weekly Spontaneous Combustion Hazard Inspection (Safety Officer/Ventilation Officer)
Conduct weekly inspection per this combustion management standard Australia covering:
Week Commencing: _______________ Inspector: _______________________
Ventilation Surveys:
- Face airway quantities measured and recorded (compare to design)
- Return airway velocities measured at goaf edge locations
- Pressure differentials across seals recorded
- Bleeder airway flows measured (if applicable)
- Main return airway CO baseline reading recorded
- Ventilation survey results compared to previous week (trend analysis)
Gas Monitoring System Audit:
- Tube bundle sample points inspected for damage/blockage
- Sample line connections verified secure and leak-free
- Gas chromatograph calibration certificate current (if on-site analysis)
- Portable gas detector bump test records reviewed
- Monitoring data trending reviewed for any anomalies
Goaf Management Inspection:
- Stopping construction progress verified against mining schedule
- No excessive rib spall or coal accumulation at goaf edge
- Goaf caving verified through observation or monitoring
- No standing water accumulation near goaf perimeter
- Coal spillage in roadways cleaned to <1 tonne accumulation
Emergency Preparedness:
- Inertisation equipment location verified and accessible
- Nitrogen supply inventory checked (liquid N₂ or generator capacity)
- Emergency sealing materials inventory verified complete
- IMT contact list current and displayed
- Evacuation route signage intact and visible
Training and Competency:
- New starters received spontaneous combustion awareness training
- TARP wallet cards issued to all underground personnel
- Deputy competency in gas detection current (RIIMCU501D)
- Ventilation officer training records reviewed
Environmental Controls:
- Spoil stockpile management compliant (no >30 day storage)
- No acid sulfate soil indicators observed in extracted material
- Dust suppression operational at transfer points
- Waste disposal manifests retained for contaminated material
Actions Required:
Next Review Due: _______________ Reviewed by Mine Manager: [ ] Yes
5.0 MINING DESIGN CONTROLS
Panel Design Parameters to Minimize Heating Risk
Safety officers verify compliance with design parameters per this combustion management standard Australia:
| Design Element | Specification | Safety Officer Verification |
| Panel Width | Per geotechnical design; minimized for heating risk | Verify mining plan approval includes heating risk assessment |
| Extraction Rate | Maintain consistent advance rate >10 m/week | Monitor weekly mining reports; flag interruptions >3 days |
| Standing Time | Minimize interruptions; <7 days stoppage without sealing | Daily production meeting attendance; document delays |
| Pillar Stability | Design stable pillars; avoid crushing/spalling | Verify geotechnical design approval; inspect for rib spalling weekly |
| Goaf Caving | Promote tight goaf caving through roof control | Visual inspection during deputy inspections; document caving behavior |
| Stopping Construction | Install stoppings ≤100 m from face (site-specific) | Verify stopping locations per ventilation design; audit weekly |
Consultant Engagement: Complex panel designs or high CPT coal (<140°C) require independent geotechnical and ventilation consultant review per this spontaneous combustion management standard Australia.
Coal Handling and Storage
| Location | Control Measure | Safety Officer Inspection Frequency |
| Underground Bins | Maintain coal throughput; avoid >48 hour storage | Daily visual; CO monitoring if bin >100 tonne capacity |
| Stockpiles Surface | Limit stockpile height <8 m; avoid compaction | Weekly inspection; thermal imaging if high CPT coal |
| Roadway Spillage | Clean coal spillage daily; no accumulation >1 tonne | Daily deputy inspection; Safety Officer spot checks |
6.0 DETECTION AND RESPONSE PROTOCOLS
Physical Indicators of Spontaneous Combustion
Train all personnel per this combustion management standard Australia to recognise and immediately report:
- Unusual smell (tarry, burnt rubber, acrid odour)
- Haze or smoke in return airways
- Condensation on airway roof/ribs (moisture distillation)
- Warm air flow or localised temperature increase
- Discolouration of coal surfaces (whitening, browning)
- Floor heave or roof stress changes (thermal expansion)
Safety Officer Responsibility: Deliver spontaneous combustion awareness training at induction; conduct quarterly refresher toolbox talks; maintain training records per RIIMCU501D competency requirements.
Trigger Action Response Plan (TARP) Structure
Establish four-level TARP per this combustion management standard Australia with defined triggers and mandatory actions:
| TARP Level | Trigger Criteria | Immediate Actions | Authority |
| Level 1: Alert | CO 10-29 ppm OR Graham’s Ratio 0.002-0.004 OR physical indicators observed | Increase monitoring frequency to 4-hourly; notify Mine Manager and Ventilation Officer; Safety Officer reviews ventilation; document observations | Deputy/Safety Officer |
| Level 2: Response | CO 30-49 ppm OR Graham’s Ratio 0.005-0.009 OR multiple physical indicators | Form Incident Management Team (IMT); increase monitoring to 2-hourly; Safety Officer reviews panel extraction plan; prepare inertisation equipment; notify regulator (QLD: Inspector; NSW: Resources Regulator) | Mine Manager + Safety Manager |
| Level 3: Critical | CO ≥50 ppm OR Graham’s Ratio ≥0.01 OR confirmed heating source identified | Withdraw non-essential personnel from affected district; continuous monitoring; deploy inertisation (nitrogen injection); Safety Officer prepares emergency sealing; evacuate adjacent areas if CO migration detected | Mine Manager + IMT + Safety Manager |
| Level 4: Evacuation | CO >100 ppm in intake airway OR uncontrolled heating progression OR life-threatening atmosphere | Evacuate entire mine; activate emergency response plan; seal affected district; notify Mines Rescue (QLD: QMRS; NSW: Mines Rescue); WorkSafe notification (VIC: WorkSafe VIC; WA: DMIRS) | Mine Manager + Emergency Controller |
Safety Officer TARP Responsibilities:
- Maintain TARP wallet cards for all personnel
- Conduct TARP simulation exercises quarterly
- Document all TARP activations in incident register
- Coordinate regulator notifications per jurisdiction requirements
- Lead post-incident investigation and corrective actions
7.0 MONTHLY SEAL INTEGRITY INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Monthly Permanent Seal Inspection (Safety Officer/Deputy)
Conduct monthly inspection of all permanent seals per this combustion management standard Australia:
Inspection Date: _______________ Seal Identification: _______________________
Location: _______________________ Inspector: _______________________
Structural Integrity:
- No visible cracks in seal structure (concrete/masonry/brattice)
- No spalling or deterioration of seal materials
- No bulging or deformation indicating pressure buildup
- Seal edges sealed tight to roof, floor, and ribs
- No water accumulation at seal base causing deterioration
- Paint markings/seal identification clearly visible
Leakage Assessment:
- No air leakage detected (smoke tube test conducted)
- No visible gaps around monitoring tube penetrations
- No moisture/condensation indicating air movement
- No dust accumulation patterns indicating leakage paths
- Pressure differential across seal measured: _________ Pa (record)
Monitoring System:
- Gas sampling tubes intact and protected from damage
- Tube connections secure and labeled correctly
- Sample point accessible for routine sampling
- Previous gas analysis results reviewed (last 30 days)
- No anomalies in gas trends (CO, O₂, CO₂ stable)
Atmosphere Behind Seal (if sampled this inspection):
- O₂: _______% (target <10%)
- CO: _______ ppm (should be declining or stable)
- CO₂: _______% (should be >10%)
- CH₄: _______% (if methane seam)
- Graham’s Ratio: _______ (should be <0.001)
Environmental Controls:
- No water discharge from seal requiring environmental management
- Drainage system (if installed) functional
- No contaminated water pooling near seal
- Spill containment available if seal release required
Access and Safety:
- Exclusion zone barricading intact (minimum 5 m from seal)
- Warning signage displayed: “DANGER – SEALED AREA – NO ENTRY”
- Emergency contact information posted near seal
- Rescue equipment accessible (if seal entry ever required)
Defects Identified:
Corrective Actions Required:
Action Due Date: _______________ Responsible Person: _______________
Inspector Signature: _________________________ Date: _________
Review by Ventilation Officer: [ ] Approved [ ] Further Action Required
8.0 INERTISATION AND TREATMENT METHODS
Nitrogen Inertisation
Safety officers coordinate inertisation per this combustion management standard Australia:
| Parameter | Specification | Safety Officer Responsibility |
| Nitrogen Source | Liquid nitrogen vaporiser OR mobile nitrogen generator | Verify equipment pre-positioned; contractor contact current |
| Injection Points | Goaf injection boreholes (minimum 2 points) | Verify borehole locations drilled and accessible |
| Target Atmosphere | Reduce goaf O₂ to <10% (preferably <8%); maintain CO₂ >12% | Coordinate gas sampling every 2 hours during injection |
| Flow Rate | Site-specific per goaf volume | Engage specialist consultant for injection strategy |
| Duration | Continuous injection until heating stabilised (CO declining trend >72 hours) | Monitor IMT event log; document stabilisation criteria met |
| Monitoring | Gas analysis every 2 hours during active injection | Coordinate sampling team; maintain trend analysis spreadsheet |
Alternative Treatment Methods
| Method | Application | Safety Officer Responsibility |
| Water Infusion | Inject water into heating zone via boreholes | Coordinate drilling contractor; verify heating location via consultant |
| Foam/Gel Injection | Seal coal surfaces; smother heating | Source specialist contractor; verify MSDS for products |
| Accelerated Mining | Extract through heating zone (if safe) | Conduct risk assessment; engage consultant for feasibility |
| Sealing | Isolate heating area with explosion-proof seals | Coordinate emergency sealing per Section 8.1 below |
Consultant Engagement Mandatory: All treatment method selection requires specialist spontaneous combustion consultant engagement per this combustion management standard Australia.
Emergency Sealing Requirements
Pre-prepared sealing locations identified in SCMP per this spontaneous combustion management standard Australia with:
- Seal design drawings (explosion-proof to 140 kPa per AS 3584)
- Material inventory on-site (cement, aggregate, brattice, timber, monitoring tubes)
- Construction procedure and timeframe (<24 hours typical)
- Monitoring arrangements post-sealing (pressure, gas composition)
- Mines Rescue notification and standby arrangements
Safety Officer Emergency Sealing Checklist:
- Seal location barricaded and exclusion zone established
- Materials verified complete per inventory checklist
- Construction crew briefed on procedure
- Monitoring tubes installed before seal completion
- Mines Rescue notified and on standby (QLD: QMRS; NSW: Mines Rescue)
- Regulator notified (NSW: Resources Regulator approval required)
- IMT event log updated with seal construction progress
- Post-seal gas sampling schedule established (initial 2-hourly sampling)
State-Specific: NSW sealing under Coal Mine Health & Safety Act requires Regulator approval. QLD sealing: notification to Inspector and SSE. VIC mines: WorkSafe Victoria approval required for permanent seals per this spontaneous combustion management standard Australia.
9.0 QUALIFICATIONS, TRAINING, AND COMPETENCIES
Mandatory Qualifications
| Role | Minimum Qualification | Additional Requirements per Combustion Management Standard Australia |
| Mine Manager | First Class Mine Manager Certificate of Competency (jurisdiction-specific) | SCMP approval authority; IMT Chair; spontaneous combustion management training |
| Ventilation Officer | Mine Ventilation Officer Certificate OR tertiary qualification in mine ventilation | Responsible for ventilation design and monitoring strategy; specialist consultant liaison |
| Deputy/Supervisor | Deputy’s Certificate of Competency (jurisdiction) + RIIMCU501D | Competent in gas detection, physical indicator recognition, TARP implementation |
| Safety/Environmental Officer | Certificate IV in WHS (BSB41419) OR Diploma of WHS | RIIMCU501D – Conduct underground coal mine site inspections; spontaneous combustion specialist training |
| Underground Workers | Coal Mining Induction (Generic Induction or equivalent) + RIIMCU401D | Site-specific spontaneous combustion awareness training; TARP wallet card issued |
| External Specialist | Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) with mining/ventilation specialisation | Engaged for complex heating events, SCMP review, treatment strategy |
Training Requirements
All underground personnel receive training per this combustion management standard Australia in:
- Coal propensity and spontaneous combustion process (oxidation, self-heating)
- Site-specific SCMP including TARP levels and response actions
- Physical and gaseous indicators of heating
- Reporting procedures and communication protocols
- Emergency evacuation routes and self-rescuer use
- Roles and responsibilities during heating events
- Environmental controls for contaminated spoil management
Safety Officer Training Responsibilities:
- Deliver spontaneous combustion awareness at induction
- Conduct quarterly refresher toolbox talks
- Maintain training register per RIIMCU501D requirements
- Coordinate specialist external training for technical personnel
- Document competency assessments for TARP implementation
Training Frequency: Induction + annual refresher + post-incident review sessions
Record Retention: Training records retained minimum 7 years per WHS Regulations
10.0 INSPECTION, AUDIT, AND REVIEW SCHEDULE
Inspection Schedule
| Inspection Type | Frequency | Responsibility | Documentation |
| Pre-Start Daily Checks | Every shift (before production commences) | Deputy | Statutory report book (Section 3.0 checklist) |
| Statutory Deputy Inspections | Per shift (daily minimum) | Deputy + Safety Officer (weekly verification) | Statutory report book |
| Weekly Hazard Inspection | Weekly | Safety Officer + Ventilation Officer | Weekly inspection register (Section 4.0 checklist) |
| Ventilation Surveys | Weekly (face airways); monthly (main airways) | Ventilation Officer | Ventilation survey register |
| Monthly Seal Integrity | Monthly (permanent seals); weekly (active goaf seals) | Safety Officer + Deputy | Seal inspection register (Section 7.0 checklist) |
| Gas Monitoring Equipment Calibration | Monthly (portable detectors); quarterly (tube bundle system) | Maintenance/Ventilation Officer | Calibration certificates |
| SCMP Compliance Audit | Minimum annually OR post-incident | Independent auditor (internal/external) | Audit report to Mine Manager |
| Environmental Compliance Audit | Quarterly | Environmental Officer/Safety Officer | Environmental compliance register |
Safety Officer Audit Responsibilities per this Combustion Management Standard Australia:
- Conduct monthly SCMP compliance spot checks
- Review deputy inspection records weekly for completeness
- Verify gas monitoring data trending monthly
- Coordinate annual independent SCMP audit
- Document non-conformances and corrective actions
- Report audit findings to Mine Manager quarterly
SCMP Review Triggers
Mandatory SCMP review within 30 days per this combustion management standard Australia of:
- Spontaneous combustion heating event (any TARP Level 2+ activation)
- Change in mining method or panel design
- New seam extraction commenced
- Significant ventilation system modification
- Change in coal propensity (new testing or adjacent mine incident)
- Regulatory directive or notice
- Audit non-conformance identified
- Introduction of new technology or monitoring equipment
Safety Officer Review Responsibilities:
- Coordinate review team (workforce consultation mandatory)
- Document review outcomes and SCMP revisions
- Communicate changes to all personnel (toolbox talks)
- Update training materials and TARP wallet cards
- Submit revised SCMP to Mine Manager for approval
- Notify regulator of significant SCMP changes (QLD: Inspector; NSW: Resources Regulator)
11.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
| Role | Key Responsibilities per Combustion Management Standard Australia |
| Mine Manager | Approve SCMP; ensure resources for implementation; chair IMT during heating events; notify regulator per jurisdiction requirements; ensure training delivery; final accountability for spontaneous combustion risk management |
| Safety Officer | Conduct daily/weekly/monthly inspections per this standard; maintain inspection registers and checklists; coordinate SCMP audits; deliver spontaneous combustion training; document TARP activations; manage incident investigations; liaise with regulator; verify consultant engagement; maintain competency records (RIIMCU501D); coordinate environmental compliance for spoil management |
| Environmental Officer | Manage contaminated spoil (acid sulfate soils, hydrocarbons); verify environmental controls during heating events; maintain waste disposal manifests; coordinate EPA notifications if environmental incident; audit dust suppression systems; manage water discharge from seals |
| Ventilation Officer | Design ventilation system to minimise heating risk; maintain gas monitoring systems; interpret monitoring data; recommend TARP escalation; advise IMT; engage specialist ventilation consultants; verify ventilation survey compliance |
| Site Senior Executive (SSE) | (QLD only) Approve PMHMP including spontaneous combustion controls; ensure SCMP compliance; authorise major operational changes; oversee safety management system |
| Deputy/Supervisor | Conduct statutory inspections; complete daily pre-start checklist (Section 3.0); monitor for physical indicators; collect gas samples (if tube bundle manual); action TARP Level 1 responses; report abnormal conditions immediately to Safety Officer; maintain RIIMCU501D competency |
| Underground Workers | Report physical indicators immediately; comply with TARP actions; participate in training; follow evacuation procedures; maintain RIIMCU401D competency |
| Incident Management Team (IMT) | Convened at TARP Level 2+; comprises Mine Manager (Chair), Safety Officer, Ventilation Officer, Production Manager, Union representative; maintains event log; coordinates response; liaises with regulator, Mines Rescue, and specialist consultants |
12.0 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND MINES RESCUE
Incident Management Team (IMT) Activation
IMT activated at TARP Level 2 per this combustion management standard Australia with documented:
- Event log (chronological record of observations, decisions, actions) – Safety Officer maintains
- Gas monitoring data and trend analysis – Ventilation Officer provides
- Ventilation modifications implemented – Ventilation Officer documents
- Personnel locations and evacuation status – Safety Officer coordinates
- External agency notifications (regulator, Mines Rescue) – Mine Manager authorises; Safety Officer executes
- Treatment methods deployed and effectiveness – Safety Officer records
- Environmental incident management (if contamination risk) – Environmental Officer coordinates
IMT remains active until controlled and stable conditions achieved (declining CO trend over minimum 72 hours; goaf O₂ <10%).
Safety Officer IMT Responsibilities:
- Establish IMT room with current plans, monitoring data, contact lists
- Maintain real-time event log (electronic and physical backup)
- Coordinate shift handovers and communication briefings
- Document all decisions and rationale
- Manage regulator liaison and reporting
- Coordinate specialist consultant engagement
- Lead post-incident investigation per MDG 1010
Mines Rescue Liaison
| Jurisdiction | Mines Rescue Service | Notification Requirement per Combustion Management Standard Australia |
| Queensland | Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS) | TARP Level 3 notification; standby for sealing operations; Safety Officer coordinates |
| New South Wales | Mines Rescue Pty Ltd | TARP Level 3 notification; response per mine’s emergency response plan; Safety Officer coordinates |
| Victoria | N/A (WorkSafe VIC coordinates emergency response) | WorkSafe notification at TARP Level 3; external specialist engagement; Safety Officer coordinates |
| Western Australia | N/A (DMIRS coordinates response) | DMIRS notification; specialist rescue arranged as required; Safety Officer coordinates |
Safety Officer Mines Rescue Coordination:
- Maintain current Mines Rescue contact list (24hr numbers)
- Coordinate site access and briefing for Mines Rescue personnel
- Provide mine plans, ventilation surveys, and gas monitoring data
- Arrange accommodation and facilities for extended operations
- Document Mines Rescue activities in IMT event log
Self-Rescuer Requirements
All underground personnel issued with self-rescuer (minimum 60-minute duration compressed oxygen type or equivalent) per this combustion management standard Australia. Self-rescuers inspected monthly and after each use. Emergency evacuation drills conducted quarterly including self-rescuer donning.
Safety Officer Responsibilities:
- Maintain self-rescuer inventory and inspection register
- Coordinate quarterly evacuation drills
- Document self-rescuer training (initial and refresher)
- Verify self-rescuer issue to all personnel daily (pre-shift check)
13.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND SPOIL HANDLING
Contaminated Material Management
Safety and environmental officers manage contaminated material per this combustion management standard Australia:
| Environmental Hazard | Identification Method | Control Measure | Inspection Frequency |
| Acid Sulfate Soils (ASS) | Visual indicators (yellow staining, acidic odor); pH testing | Stockpile on geotextile-lined bunded area; neutralise with lime; segregate from clean spoil | Daily during extraction; pH test every 20 tonnes |
| Hydrocarbon Contamination | Visual (oil staining); odor | Segregate in labeled bins; dispose via licensed contractor; maintain waste manifest | Weekly inspection; manifest retention 7 years |
| Naturally Occurring Asbestos (if present) | Geological assessment; visual identification by competent person | Immediate segregation; licensed asbestos assessor engaged; disposal at licensed facility | Continuous during extraction if NOA-bearing strata |
| Heated/Combusted Coal | Temperature monitoring; discoloration | Segregate; water spray cooling; no stockpiling; immediate disposal | Continuous during heating event response |
Environmental Officer/Safety Officer Responsibilities:
- Conduct daily visual inspections of spoil stockpiles
- Maintain waste classification register
- Coordinate licensed contractor engagement for contaminated waste
- Verify waste disposal manifests retained (EPA reporting)
- Notify EPA within 2 hours if environmental incident (spill >10,000L)
14.0 RECORD KEEPING AND INCIDENT REPORTING
Mandatory Records per Combustion Management Standard Australia (Minimum Retention 7 Years)
Safety Officer Maintains:
- Daily pre-start inspection checklists (Section 3.0)
- Weekly hazard inspection register (Section 4.0)
- Monthly seal integrity inspection checklists (Section 7.0)
- TARP activations and IMT event logs
- Training records (all personnel) – RIIMCU501D, RIIMCU401D competencies
- Incident investigation reports (permanent retention if notifiable)
- SCMP compliance audit reports
- Corrective action register
Ventilation Officer Maintains:
- Gas monitoring data (daily samples, continuous monitoring logs)
- Ventilation surveys and airflow measurements
- Tube bundle/monitoring equipment calibration certificates
Mine Manager Maintains:
- Coal propensity test results (permanent retention)
- SCMP and all revisions (permanent retention)
- Seal construction records and design drawings (permanent retention)
- Consultant reports (heating events, SCMP reviews)
Environmental Officer Maintains:
- Waste disposal manifests (7 years minimum)
- Environmental incident reports
- Contaminated spoil classification records
- EPA correspondence and notifications
Notifiable Incidents to Regulator
Immediate notification required per this combustion management standard Australia for:
- Uncontrolled fire or heating (TARP Level 3+)
- Evacuation of mine due to spontaneous combustion
- Emergency sealing conducted
- Exposure of persons to hazardous atmosphere (CO >50 ppm in intake)
- Dangerous incident as defined by WHS Regulations
State-Specific Notification (Safety Officer Coordinates):
- NSW: Resources Regulator 1300 814 609 (24hr); online portal; written notice within 48 hours
- QLD: Inspector of Mines (district office); immediate phone + written report within 48 hours; Coal Mine Safety and Health Inspectorate
- VIC: WorkSafe Victoria 13 23 60; immediate notification + written report within 48 hours
- WA: DMIRS 24hr hotline 1300 136 289; online notification system
- SA: SafeWork SA 1300 365 255; immediate notification for serious incidents
- TAS: WorkSafe Tasmania 1300 366 322; immediate notification
Safety Officer Notification Responsibilities:
- Maintain current regulator contact list (24hr emergency numbers)
- Document notification time, person contacted, information provided
- Submit written report within jurisdiction timeframe
- Coordinate regulator site access and investigation
- Maintain correspondence register
15.0 LEGAL REFERENCES AND STANDARDS
Commonwealth and State Legislation
Mining-Specific Legislation:
- Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013 (QLD)
- Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2014 (QLD)
- Coal Mine Health and Safety Act 2002 (NSW)
- Coal Mine Health and Safety Regulation 2006 (NSW)
- Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (VIC) – Part 4.4 Mines
- Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2022 (WA)
- Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2013 (SA)
- Work Health and Safety (Mines and Quarries) Regulations 2013 (TAS)
General WHS Legislation:
- Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Commonwealth Model Act)
- Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (QLD, ACT) – Part 3.1, Part 4.5 (Plant), Part 5.3 (High-Risk Work Licences)
- Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 (NSW, NT) – Part 3.1, Part 4.5, Part 5.3
- Work Health and Safety Regulation 2012 (SA) – Part 3.1, Part 4.5, Part 5.3
- Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2022 (WA) – Part 3.1, Part 4.5, Part 5.3
- Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (VIC) – Part 3.5 (Plant), Regulation 143
Australian Standards – Mining Operations
- AS 3584:2008 – Specifications for Explosion-Proof Seals
- AS 4024.1 Series – Safety of machinery (applicable to mining plant)
- AS/NZS 60204.1:2015 – Safety of machinery – Electrical equipment of machines
- AS 2290 Series – Mechanical equipment for mines
- AS 4655 Series – Gas detectors (portable and fixed)
- AS 2290.3 – Mechanical equipment for underground coal mines – Underground electrical equipment
- AS 4114 Series – Conveyor safety
Australian Standards – Lifting and Cranes (for cage installation)
- AS 2550.1:2011 – Cranes, hoists and winches – Safe use – General requirements
- AS 1418.1:2016 – Cranes, hoists and winches – General requirements
- AS 4991 – Lifting devices
- AS 2321.1 – Short-link chain for lifting purposes
- AS 3569 – Steel wire rope
Australian Standards – Confined Space and Emergency
- AS 2865-2009 – Confined Spaces
- AS/NZS 1891 Series – Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices
- AS 1319 – Safety signs for the occupational environment
- AS 3745 – Planning for emergencies in facilities
- AS 1657:2018 – Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders
Australian Standards – Testing and Monitoring
- AS 4264.2:1996 – Coal and Coke – Higher Rank Coal – Oxidation Tests
- AS 1289 Series – Methods of testing soils for engineering purposes
- AS/NZS 3580 Series – Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air
- AS 4801 – Occupational health and safety management systems
- AS/NZS ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational health and safety management systems
Australian Standards – Environmental
- AS 4419 Series – Soils for landscaping and garden use (contaminated spoil classification)
- AS/NZS ISO 14001 – Environmental management systems
- AS 1940 – The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
- AS 3780 – The storage and handling of corrosive substances
- NEPM – National Environment Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure 2013
- Queensland Acid Sulfate Soil Technical Manual (QASSIT)
- NSW Acid Sulfate Soil Manual (ASSMAC Guidelines)
- WA Acid Sulfate Soil Guideline (DER)
MDG Guidelines (NSW Resources Regulator)
- MDG 1006 – Spontaneous Combustion Management Guideline
- MDG 1006 Technical Reference – Spontaneous Combustion Management
- MDG 1010 – Risk Management Handbook for the Mining Industry
- MDG 1020 – Emergency Preparedness
- MDG 1031 – Undermanager and Deputy Statutory Functions
- MDG 29 – Ventilation Management Plans
- MDG 1009 – Approved Winding Systems – Surface Coal Mines
- MDG 15 – Guideline for the Management of Spontaneous Combustion in Coal Mines
Queensland Recognised Standards
- Recognised Standard 03 – Principal Mining Hazard Management Plans (PMHMP)
- Recognised Standard 09 – Electrical Engineering
- Recognised Standard 11 – Ventilation Management
- Recognised Standard 12 – Ventilation Systems and Equipment
- Recognised Standard 22 – Monitoring
- Recognised Standard 24 – Spontaneous Combustion Management (when gazetted)
- Recognised Standard 01 – Risk Management
- Recognised Standard 02 – Mine Emergency Management
Industry Guidance and Research
- Queensland Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee Guidelines
- Minerals Council of Australia – Leading Practice Sustainable Development Program
- ACARP (Australian Coal Association Research Program) Reports on Spontaneous Combustion
- Spontaneous Combustion in Australian Underground Coal Mines (Reprinted 2004)
- SIMTARS (Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station) Technical Papers
- Coal Services Pty Ltd Research Papers
- International Labour Organization (ILO) – Safety and Health in Coal Mines
- Mine Safety Institute of Australia (MSIA) – Training Resources
Risk Management Standards
- AS/NZS ISO 31000:2018 – Risk Management – Guidelines
- HB 436:2004 – Risk Management Guidelines (Companion to AS/NZS 4360)
- ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational health and safety management systems
- AS/NZS 4360:2004 – Risk Management (superseded but referenced in legacy documents)
Competency and Training Standards
- RIIMCU501D – Conduct underground coal mine site inspections
- RIIMCU401D – Implement and monitor coal mine atmospheric monitoring systems
- RIIVEH305D – Operate and monitor underground mine ventilation systems
- RII30920 – Certificate III in Underground Coal Operations
- RII40520 – Certificate IV in Underground Coal Operations
- RII50520 – Diploma of Surface Coal Mine Management
- RII60520 – Advanced Diploma of Mining (Management)
- BSB41419 – Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety
- BSB51319 – Diploma of Work Health and Safety
- RIIWHS302D – Implement traffic management plans
Environmental Protection Legislation
- Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth)
- Environmental Protection Act 1994 (QLD)
- Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (NSW)
- Environment Protection Act 2017 (VIC)
- Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA)
- Environment Protection Act 1993 (SA)
- Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (TAS)
Notifiable Incident Reporting
State-Specific Notification Contacts:
- NSW: Resources Regulator 1300 814 609 (24hr); online portal: resourcesregulator.nsw.gov.au
- QLD: Inspector of Mines (district office); Coal Mine Safety and Health Inspectorate: rshq.qld.gov.au
- VIC: WorkSafe Victoria 13 23 60; online: worksafe.vic.gov.au
- WA: DMIRS 24hr hotline 1300 136 289; online: dmirs.wa.gov.au
- SA: SafeWork SA 1300 365 255; online: safework.sa.gov.au
- TAS: WorkSafe Tasmania 1300 366 322; online: worksafe.tas.gov.au
International Standards (Reference Only)
- IEC 62671 – Nuclear power plants – Instrumentation important to safety – Radiation monitoring systems
- ISO 11223 – Petroleum and natural gas industries – Emergency response
- ASTM D7280 – Standard Test Method for Determining Spontaneous Ignition Temperature of Chemicals
- NFPA 120 – Standard for Fire Prevention and Control in Coal Mines
Record Retention Requirements
All records retained per jurisdiction requirements under this combustion management standard Australia (minimum 7 years; permanent for structural/design records, coal propensity testing, and notifiable incidents).
16.0 SPECIALIST CONSULTANCY ENGAGEMENT
Engage external spontaneous combustion specialist per this combustion management standard Australia for:
- Coal propensity testing and interpretation (laboratory accredited to NATA or equivalent)
- SCMP development and review (minimum 3-yearly independent review)
- Heating event investigation and treatment strategy (TARP Level 2+ activation)
- Complex panel design with elevated spontaneous combustion risk (CPT <140°C coal)
- Inertisation system design and deployment planning (nitrogen injection strategy)
- Independent audit of spontaneous combustion management systems (annual compliance audit)
- Training delivery to technical personnel (Ventilation Officers, Mine Managers, Safety Officers)
- Ventilation system design review for new panels or seam changes
- Emergency sealing design and construction supervision
Specialist Qualifications:
- CPEng (mining/ventilation specialisation) or equivalent international qualification
- Demonstrated spontaneous combustion experience in coal mining (minimum 10 years)
- Understanding of Australian regulatory requirements (MDG 1006, WHS Mines Regulations)
- Professional indemnity insurance current
- References from Australian coal mining operations
Safety Officer Consultant Liaison Responsibilities:
- Maintain approved consultant register with current contact details
- Coordinate consultant site access and inductions
- Brief consultants on site-specific SCMP and recent events
- Review consultant reports for completeness and recommendations
- Implement consultant recommendations or document rationale if not adopted
- Maintain consultant report library (permanent retention)
DOWNLOAD YOUR SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION RESOURCES
HSE Direct provides practical spontaneous combustion management standard Australia templates aligned with MDG 1006 and WHS (Mines) Regulations across all jurisdictions.
Available Resources from HSE Direct:
- Spontaneous Combustion Management Plan (SCMP) template – Customisable for QLD, NSW, VIC, WA, SA, TAS operations
- TARP template with customisable trigger levels – Four-level response framework per this combustion management standard Australia
- Daily Pre-Start Inspection Checklist (Section 3.0) – Deputy/Safety Officer format
- Weekly Hazard Inspection Register (Section 4.0) – Comprehensive checklist for safety officers
- Monthly Seal Integrity Inspection Checklist (Section 7.0) – Permanent and active goaf seals
- Gas monitoring register and trend analysis spreadsheet – Excel-based with automatic Graham’s Ratio calculation
- Coal propensity testing specification – Laboratory brief for NATA-accredited testing
- Emergency sealing procedure and material inventory checklist – AS 3584 compliant design
- IMT event log and decision register – Incident management documentation template
- Training presentation and competency assessment – PowerPoint with RIIMCU501D/RIIMCU401D alignment
- Inspection checklists (deputy, ventilation, environmental) – All formats referenced in this combustion management standard Australia
These resources are designed for underground coal mining operations implementing spontaneous combustion management standard Australia requirements in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania.
About HSE Direct: We develop practical WHS and environmental compliance solutions for mining operations across Australia. Our spontaneous combustion management standard Australia resources are authored by experienced mining engineers, ventilation specialists, and safety professionals with direct coal mine operational experience, incident response involvement, and regulatory compliance expertise. We understand the practical challenges of implementing combustion management standard Australia requirements in operational underground coal mines.