The MSAC provides advice to the Minister for Resources and Energy on work health and safety in the NSW mining industry.
Hannaford has held senior roles in the NSW government including leader of the house, minister for industrial relations and vice president of the executive council, minister for state development, minister for health and community services, and attorney general.
Chief executive of the NSW Minerals Council Stephen Galilee welcomed Hannaford’s appointment.
“We have the best mine safety record in the world here in NSW and that has been thanks in part to the commitment of the industry, unions and regulators to work together,” he said.
“There has been a substantial and sustained improvement over the past 30 years. Despite the growth of the industry, the number of serious injuries is at record lows and the lost time injury frequency rate has decreased by more than 90% in the coal sector.
“Mr Hannaford’s leadership skills and experience in public administration will help ensure MSAC members continue to work together constructively to keep improving our world leading health and safety systems and culture in NSW.”
Hannaford’s appointment as chair of the council follows the death of Norman Jennings late last year. Jennings held the role since 2006.
“Norman showed strong leadership and commitment to improving mine safety over the almost six years as chairman,” Galilee said.
“During Norman's tenure, MSAC published world best practice guidelines on fatigue, safety incentive schemes, musculoskeletal disorders and health management plans.
“His work will leave a lasting legacy for the NSW mining industry in striving towards what Norman believed was possible and achievable – a world leading OHS culture.”
The MSAC includes senior officials from different bodies in the mining industry including the CFMEU (Mining and Energy Division), Australian Workers Union, NSW Minerals Council and Cement Concrete and Aggregates Australia.
Initiatives led by MSAC aim to improve the health and safety culture in the state’s $1 billion mining industry. Some recent initiatives include workshops for driver safety, promoting safety beyond the mine gate and special health and safety grant programs such as the Mudgee Community Grants program.
