Snowy 2.0 Project Faces Safety Review After Ventilation Fan Implodes

Incident Overview

On Tuesday, 25 February 2025, a 2.5-metre industrial ventilation fan imploded in the underground tunnels of the Snowy 2.0 pumped-hydro project in the NSW Snowy Mountains. Metal shrapnel from the fan’s blades travelled up to 30–40 metres across the construction site, though no workers were in the immediate vicinity and no injuries were reported.

SafeWork NSW issued six prohibition notices on the affected ventilation fans, halting all underground operations at the site pending investigation and remediation. Snowy Hydro has announced an independent safety review and audit of the project, alongside leadership changes within the principal contractor, Future Generation Joint Venture (FGJV).

SafeWork NSW issued six prohibition notices on the affected ventilation fans, halting all underground operations at the site pending investigation and remediation. Snowy Hydro has announced an independent safety review and audit of the project, alongside leadership changes within the principal contractor, Future Generation Joint Venture (FGJV).

SafeWork NSW issued six prohibition notices targeting all primary ventilation systems at the site, effectively halting all underground work until the fans are repaired and safety standards are restored. The regulator is investigating the maintenance practices and structural integrity of the ventilation equipment.

SafeWork NSW is investigating the circumstances of the ventilation fan failure and welcomes any additional information from workers, contractors or site personnel who may have observed maintenance issues or safety concerns prior to the incident. Persons with relevant information are encouraged to contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or submit a report via the online incident-reporting portal at safework.nsw.gov.au.