The Department of Planning and Environment has fined Hunter Valley Operations Pty Ltd for exceeding approved blasting limits at its Hunter Valley Operations South coal mine.
The company must ensure blasts are below the approved airblast limit of 120 dB(L), which reduces the impacts of noise and air pressure vibration.
A report from Hunter Valley Operations confirmed one of its blasts caused an airblast wave measuring 125.78dB(L) at the Warkworth Village monitor on 25 February 2016.
“The company is now required to pay $15,000 for breaching the airblast levels,” a Department spokesperson said.
“Our compliance officers review reports and conduct audits, spot checks without warning, as well as work with companies to ensure they are sticking to the rules.
“The Department can issue the highest on-the-spot fines in the country for breaches of conditions.
“The community is also encouraged to contact the Department with any concerns. Complaints will be investigated by our compliance team.”
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