Moranbah North Coal Mine Shut Down After Detecting High Carbon Monoxide Levels

Introduction
Production at the Anglo American-owned Moranbah North coal mine in Central Queensland came to a halt on Monday afternoon after high levels of carbon monoxide were detected at approximately 3 PM. Located roughly 200 kilometers southwest of Mackay, the mine was safely evacuated without injury to any personnel. This shutdown follows previous incidents, including a closure in 2021 due to similar gas concerns and the ongoing closure of its sister mine, Grosvenor Mine, following an underground explosion in June 2024.

The situation highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and swift action in response to hazardous conditions in mining operations.

Details of the Incident
An “over pressure event” occurred at the long wall face of the mine, leading to elevated carbon monoxide levels. According to Anglo American, the underground environment is continuously monitored, and current readings indicate a stable atmosphere post-evacuation. Despite this stability, the detection of dangerous gases prompted an immediate and orderly evacuation of all workers, ensuring their safety.

Mining and Energy Union National Vice-President Steven Smyth noted that high carbon monoxide levels could signal spontaneous combustion or oxidation events—common indicators used by mines to assess such risks. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident, underscoring the effectiveness of the company’s emergency response plan.

Response and Investigation
Anglo American acted swiftly upon discovering the overpressure event, informing Resources Health and Safety Queensland (RHSQ) immediately. Industry safety representatives from the union are en route to the site to assist in evaluating the situation further. It is estimated that over 100 workers were present during the day shift when the evacuation commenced.

A spokesperson for Anglo American emphasized the company’s commitment to worker safety, stating, “The health and safety of our people is paramount.” They confirmed adherence to established protocols, ensuring a safe evacuation according to the action response plan. Moving forward, RHSQ will play a critical role in determining the cause of the incident and establishing criteria for the mine’s reopening through consultation with relevant stakeholders.

Broader Context and Previous Incidents
This marks the second significant shutdown for Moranbah North within recent years; the mine faced a similar closure in 2021 due to high gas readings. Additionally, the nearby Grosvenor Mine remains closed following an underground fire in June 2024, reinforcing concerns about safety standards across these facilities.

Safety experts stress the necessity of proactive measures to prevent such occurrences, including rigorous testing, regular maintenance, and comprehensive training programs for employees. With multiple incidents occurring in proximity, industry leaders must prioritize transparency and accountability to restore public confidence in operational safety.

Next Steps and Future Considerations
Reopening the mine will depend on thorough investigations conducted in collaboration with RHSQ and other safety authorities. Representatives from both Anglo American and the Mining and Energy Union have expressed relief that the evacuation proceeded smoothly, preventing harm to workers. However, questions remain regarding the root cause of the overpressure event and how it can be mitigated in the future.

As discussions around mine safety continue, there is growing emphasis on implementing advanced technologies and improving communication channels between operators, regulators, and unions. These efforts aim to minimize risks while maintaining productivity in one of Queensland’s largest underground coal mines.