Enhance the safety of your mining operations with Australian Standards™

Australia’s mining industry is a driving force of national growth and innovation but operating safely and efficiently comes with significant challenges. This high-risk sector relies on safety and operational standards to help protect workers and optimise performance. Australian Standards™ are essential tools that provide guidance needed to help meet regulatory demands and support effective mining operations.

For mining professionals, having access to the right standards at the right time is crucial for staying compliant and managing risks. The Standards Australia Store offers a range of solutions, allowing mining companies to tailor their standards access to meet the specific needs of their operations.

How standards support mining operations

Mining comes with unique challenges, from hazardous work environments to the use of heavy machinery and strict safety protocols. Australian Standards™ help mining companies tackle these challenges head-on, providing clear guidance across everything from machinery safety to environmental management.

Ben Russell, Industry Engagement Manager at Standards Australia, explains: “Standards are vital for mining operations. They give companies the frameworks they need to manage risks and help keep their workers protected, while also driving operational efficiency.”

Key standards for mining safety and efficiency

Mining professionals can find a range of key standards through the Standards Australia Store, designed to help companies manage safety risks, improve processes, and comply with industry regulations. Here are some of the most popular standards:

• AS/NZS ISO 45001:2018, Occupational health and safety management systems: Developing and maintaining effective health and safety management systems is crucial in mining. This standard provides practical guidance for reducing workplace injuries and improving worker safety across operational activities.
• AS 61508:2011 series of standards, Functional safety of electrical, electronic, and programmable systems: With mining increasingly reliant on automation and advanced technologies, maintaining the safety and reliability of complex systems is essential. These standards help companies manage risks tied to electrical and programmable system failures, keeping operations running smoothly.
• AS/NZS 3007:2013, Electrical equipment in mines and quarries: Electrical safety is a top priority in mining. This standard sets out key safety requirements for installing and operating electrical systems in challenging environments, reducing the risk of electrical hazards, and supporting continuous operation.
• AS ISO 31000:2018, Risk management: Risk management is central to safe mining operations. This standard offers a structured framework to help mining companies identify, assess, and mitigate risks, fostering a safer and more productive workplace.
• AS 2294.1-1997, Earthmoving machinery – Protective structures: Earthmoving equipment is essential to mining. This standard addresses critical safety features like Roll-over Protective Structures (ROPS) and Falling Object Protective Structures (FOPS). These safeguards help protect operators from equipment-related incidents and injuries.

Preparing for the future of mining

As mining continues to evolve, staying current with the latest technological advancements and safety practices is essential. Automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital innovations are transforming how mining companies operate. By incorporating standards like AS 61508, companies can integrate these technologies with confidence. Risk management standards like AS ISO 31000 provide additional guidance in navigating emerging risks and opportunities.

Russell adds: “As the mining landscape changes, keeping up to date with the right standards can help companies stay at the forefront of safety and innovation.”

Get the standards you need at the Standards Australia Store

For the mining industry, reliable access to up-to-date standards is important for staying compliant, protecting workers, and optimising performance. The Standards Australia Store offers a comprehensive range of standards to support mining operations. With flexible subscription options, organisations can customise access to the standards most relevant to their business, helping teams stay informed and ready to tackle new challenges.

Visit the Standards Australia Store today to explore the full range of mining standards. Stay ahead of the curve and keep your operations safe, efficient, and compliant.