There is a history of serious injuries and fatalities resulting from roadway incidents that should be considered in this plan, the MDG states.

The MDG aims to promote the maintenance of road conditions by mine operators so worker safety concerns are addressed satisfactorily, including under WHS Act consultation requirements.

Under WHS legislation, mine operators must select, implement and review controls for hazards that may arise from roads and the vehicles that travel on them.

“As a mine develops and roadway distances get longer it is important that road surfaces are even and well maintained as they may provide the only practical option for a vehicle’s escape in an emergency,” the MDG states.

“These escapes are usually aided by breathing apparatus and are attempted when visibility is poor.”

Travelling on rough roads over time can contribute to a musculoskeletal disorder. Vibration arises from rough roads, and this energy can be passed on to the operators and passengers, most commonly through their buttocks, while they are in the vehicle.

The magnitude and effect of the vibration depends on the length and severity of exposures.

Vibration-related musculoskeletal claims in mining are much higher than in any other sector.This figure may also be much higher than recorded in injury statistics.

For example, a debilitating MSD injury may have occurred due to another event, but the person’s exposure to vibration from travelling on rough roads may contribute to the injury as the person sustains small injuries over time. This subsequently weakens the musculoskeletal system.