BHP fined $78,000 over worker's death

Mining giant BHP has been fined $78,000 over the death of an employee in December 2018, according to the Mining and Energy Union (MEU).

BMA (BHP Mitsubishi Alliance) Coal Operations was sentenced after the death of Allan Houston, who was trapped upside down in mud after his bulldozer rolled down a steep embankment on December 31, 2018, at Saraji mine. 

Investigation of the incident revealed that BMA had failures in safety management systems at the mine, with the organisation charged for breaches of statutory health and safety obligations.

Disappointing punishment

The MEU said it is "deeply disappointed" at the punishment BHP received over the incident.

"$78,000 is not even a slap on the wrist for Australia's biggest mining company," MEU Queensland President Mitch Hughes in a statement. "We are pleased that Allan's tragic death has been pursued through the courts. But when the loss of a worker's life results in a fine that hardly equivalent to spare change it is certainly dispiriting."

Hughes also said they were disappointed with the Magistrate's comments that BHP's culpability was "towards the lower end of seriousness."

"While some may see robust safety and health management systems as little more than paperwork, the fact is that rigour and attention to detail must be applied to safe operations in coal mines every minute and every day," he said.

"We have seen too many sad examples of the tragic cost paid by workers and their families when mine operators take their eyes off the ball."

Qcoal fatality

The sentencing comes in the same week an employee of QCoal died at its Byerwen coking coal mine in Queensland, according to Hughes.

James Black, QCoal Group executive, confirmed the passing of Chris Schloss in a statement on Sunday.

"The QCoal family has suffered a devastating loss with the death of Chris Schloss in an incident at the Byerwen Mine on Saturday," Black said.

"Chris has been part of the QCoal family for many years and has been integral in developing Byerwen since its launch. Our thoughts are with Chris' wife Amanda, his children and all their family at this terrible time."

The executive said they are working with investigators and the police on the incident.

"We are also providing support for those staff on site and across the organisation as we come to terms with this incredible loss," Black said.