The NSW Minerals Council has announced its annual awards for innovation safety in the mining industry.

The 2012 OHS Innovation Award Winners are:

2012 OHS INNOVATION AWARD: BHP Billiton Illawarra Coal (West Cliff Mine), Illawarra/Wollondilly Region

Ultra Lightweight Ventilation Tube: In a first for a NSW underground coalmine, trialling new carbon fibre ventilation tubes in place of traditional fibreglass significantly reduces their weight (from 35-40kg to just 9kg), increasing productivity and minimising heavy lifting risks like muscular-skeletal injuries.

 

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Centennial Coal (Myuna Colliery), Hunter/Newcastle Region

SOTO Tow Hitch Syste: This innovative rigid towing device minimises the risk of safety incidents by increasing control of movement while towing heavy mine equipment underground. It can be used in all conditions and can be operated by just one person.

 

HIGHLY COMMENDED: BHP Billiton Mt Arthur Coal, Hunter/Newcastle Region

The ‘Marnett’ Belt Lifter Bracke: This specialised bracket allows conveyer belts without a mechanical belt lifter to be periodically changed without manual handling and pinch point hazards. It saves time by around 25 per cent, can be used on any conveyor and costs less than $300 each.

 

PEOPLE’S CHOICE (Voted by conference delegates): BHP Billiton Illawarra Coal (West Cliff Mine), Illawarra/Wollondilly Region

Ultra Lightweight Ventilation Tube:  (Also winner of the major 2012 OHS INNOVATION AWARD)