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Introduction
WorkSafe Western Australia has charged two mining contractors and a mine operator following the deaths of two workers in separate incidents at mines in the Pilbara and Goldfields regions in October 2022.
Charges and Penalties
The companies are charged with failing to ensure worker health and safety, resulting in death and exposure to risk of death or serious injury. Under WA’s Work Health and Safety laws, the maximum penalty for causing death is $3.5 million, and for exposing workers to risk of death, it’s $1.8 million.
Legal Proceedings
RUC Mining Contractors will appear in Kalgoorlie Magistrates Court next month, while MACA Mining and Greenmount Resources will face Newman Magistrates Court in December.
Conclusion
These charges highlight the serious consequences of failing to prioritize workplace safety in the mining industry. The outcomes of the court cases will be crucial in holding companies accountable and reinforcing the importance of safety measures to protect workers’ lives.