Who is responsible for the risk management of plant and substances at a coal mine?

The responsibility for the risk management of plant and substances at a coal mine falls on the Site Senior Executive (SSE) for a coal mine. The SSE plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with the relevant safety regulations and legislation. This includes overseeing the implementation of risk management processes to protect the health and safety of all workers as well as visitors at the mine site.

The SSE is tasked with creating a safety culture within the mine and is responsible for ensuring that proper procedures related to the handling, storage, and use of hazardous substances are established and followed. This includes conducting risk assessments and putting in place necessary control measures to mitigate any identified risks associated with plant and substances.

In contrast, while coal mine workers have an essential role in adhering to safety practices and reporting hazards, they do not hold the overarching responsibility for risk management. Mine inspectors have a regulatory role, conducting inspections to enforce compliance but they do not manage risks directly. Government officials set regulations and standards but are not involved in the day-to-day management of risk at a specific mine site. Therefore, the SSE is uniquely positioned with authority and responsibility for managing risks related to plant and substances in a coal mine environment.