Transition arrangements allow for codes of practice approved under the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 to continue being in effect as if approved by the Minister under the Work Health and Safety Act 2020.
Mobile autonomous mining, like any large-scale mining activity, is hazardous with many inherent risks. When integrated with a manned mining operation, additional risks may be present beyond those recognised for conventional mining techniques.
The aims of this code of practice are to describe:
- a set of desired safety outcomes for mobile autonomous mining to meet the approval requirements of the project management plan (PMP) under the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 and Mines Safety and Inspections Regulations 1995
- the variables to be considered to demonstrate that a mobile autonomous mining system is safe and performing as designed
- the role of the competent person in the hazard management process for mobile autonomous mining
- the broader occupational health and safety requirements for operating in accordance with the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 and Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995.
The code of practice promotes a proactive approach to the introduction and operation of mobile autonomous mining systems to ensure the safe use of mobile autonomous (and semi-autonomous) technology. It also promotes continuing communication and consultation between system and component suppliers and the mining operation as the end user.