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Mine officials put Hunter coal mines on watch

Hunter coal mines have been warned, after an increase of incidents involving dump trucks coming into contact with overhead power lines.

State mine officials have reported that there has been a number of incidents where the elevated trays on dump trucks undertaking haulage activities on mine sites have come into contact with overhead powerlines or structures, prompting a statewide safety bulletin.

The ABC reported safety investigators said there have not been many injuries, but the potential for harm is high.

The investigators also said mine sites have sustained substantial damage to powerlines and site infrastructure that is significantly affected mining and processing activities.

They are urging all mines to ensure proper work procedures are followed.

They also say tray warning devices must be fitted, with a focus on ensuring the devices are not disabled.

Another problem has been human error and complacency.

Mine safety investigators say it is crucial there is adequate supervision and training and that exclusion zones are established when powerlines are struck, to keep people away due to the risk of the truck’s tyres exploding.

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