Last week Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham rebuked Glencore’s Oaky No 1 and Oaky North mine as well as Anglo American’s Grosvenor and Moranbah North mines for being negligent in monitoring dust levels.

The four mines had until August 15 to fulfil the requirements of the initial directives issued to them by the inspectorate.

“The Mines Inspectorate has moved quickly on four coal mines which have failed to comply with dust monitoring laws, commencing an investigation and issuing them with directives to address deficiencies in their safety and health management systems,” it said.

“Both operators will be required to submit evidence that they have in place dust monitoring plans which meet their regulatory obligations.”

One operator will increase dust monitoring and reporting and submit their dust monitoring plan for scrutiny by mines inspectors, the inspectorate said.

It said discussions continue with the second operator regarding appropriate action to ensure compliance, the Inspectorate said.

“While we expect the mines to meet the requirements of the directives, failure to do so may result in further action – this could include issuing further directives to halt mining operations or prosecution,” the inspectorate said.