Investigation Launched into Blast Incident at Queensland’s Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project

Introduction

Regulatory authorities in Queensland are probing allegations concerning an explosion at the Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project, where workers reportedly experienced shock due to detonations conducted while they were underground.

Incident Overview

The CFMEU reported that during a night shift on February 23, three workers 300 meters underground felt tremors and heard an explosion 30 meters below them at the renewable energy site near Townsville. The incident, which left the workers mentally shaken but physically unharmed, raised serious safety concerns.

Regulatory Response

Following the incident, both Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) initiated investigations. Preliminary findings suggested the clearance procedure prior to blasting was ineffective, prompting a temporary halt to blasting activities to implement interim safety measures.

Company’s Accountability

The Kidston project, operated by Genex Power, has come under scrutiny for its safety protocols. RSHQ’s initial assessment indicates a lapse in ensuring worker safety before blasting, and WHSQ has addressed concerns about the psychosocial impact on the workers, emphasizing the legal obligations of businesses to manage such issues.

Investigation Progress

Further inquiries are set to continue, with inspectors planning visits to the site for a comprehensive investigation. The focus will be on understanding the sequence of events, assessing the effectiveness of safety procedures, and ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future.