Macarthur Coal continues to work closely with all minesite and corporate office personnel to cultivate a culture of safety improvement and vigilance in the control of hazards. The target is zero injuries and fatalities.
Following independent audits of Coppabella and Moorvale Mines in early 2005, Macarthur Coal worked with contractors to design and implement a new Health, Safety Environment and Community (HSEC) plan which provides standard and consistent procedures for all Macarthur Coal and contract staff working in both mines. On commencement, all new contract and Macarthur Coal staff will receive training in the new procedures and current staff have been retrained to ensure all are aware of the new requirements. The new HSEC has currently been implemented at Moorvale Mine and it is expected to be rolled out at Coppabella Mine by the end of 2007. A company-wide crisis management plan which puts in place the procedures and protocols to be followed should a crisis occur either onsite or in the corporate office forms part of the HSEC.
A major Fatigue Management Survey of all staff and contractors at both minesites was completed. The purpose of the survey was to determine practical ways to decrease the risks associated with fatigue, particularly with respect to travel to and from work. Macarthur Coal is examining several strategies to deal with issues highlighted in the survey such as flexible working hours, car pooling, better housing close to site and alternative travel options.
Macarthur Coal supports its employees in achieving and maintaining fit and healthy lifestyles. The Company sponsors a free mobile gym for use by minesite personnel, their families and the community. Students from Nebo State School attend the gym weekly.
Corporate office employees receive financial reimbursement of up to $1,500 per employee per annum for gym memberships or use of personal trainers. In addition, Macarthur Coal sponsors a weekly exercise session provided by a personal trainer which is held in the corporate office for any employees wishing to attend.