Ventilation Fan Implodes at Snowy 2.0 Project, Prompting Immediate Safety Review

Incident Overview

On Tuesday, 4 March 2025, a 2.5-meter 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 traveled up to 30–40 meters across the construction site; 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.

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.

No emergency services transport was required as no workers were injured. The site was secured and underground operations were immediately suspended. SafeWork NSW was notified and attended the site to conduct inspections and issue prohibition notices.

SafeWork NSW has issued six prohibition notices covering 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 and structural condition of the ventilation equipment and the adequacy of pre-incident safety protocols.

SafeWork NSW is investigating the incident and welcomes information from workers, contractors, or site personnel who were present at the Snowy 2.0 project on 4 March 2025 or who have knowledge of the ventilation fan’s maintenance history and condition. Witnesses and co-workers can contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or submit a report via the online incident-reporting form at safework.nsw.gov.au.