Regulator investigation to boost safety after Cadia explosion - Safe To Work

The New South Wales Resources Regulator is investigating what can be learned from a recent explosion at Newmont’s Cadia mine.

On July 22, two workers were in a concentrator reclaim tunnel extending high-density polyethylene (HDPE) piping that connected to the underpans of a conveyor feeder and ran towards the back of the tunnel.

Part of the task involved electrofusion welding a coupling to an existing length of HDPE pipe and another prefabricated length of pipe. The end of the existing length of HDPE pipe had been damaged by mobile plant.

After the welding process was complete, the workers disconnected the welder from the coupling. At this point, the workers left the area to obtain sealant to apply to any gaps around the fittings.

They were away from the tunnel for about 15–20 minutes. Upon their return, they saw thick smoke coming from the top of the tunnel.

The workers immediately retreated from the area and made an emergency call via the site radio.

While the emergency response was being mobilised, an explosion was seen and heard coming from the end of the tunnel.

The explosion caused some damage to equipment and infrastructure immediately in front of the tunnel and scattered debris over a distance of 60m.

HDPE electrofusion is a continuing safety concern for industry bodies, with the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union saying the risk of a fire is high.

“The major concern relates to pipework of 150mm diameter and greater, where the loss of control during the application of heat to the fittings results in excessive heat being applied over a short time frame, resulting in destruction of the fitting, or at worst, a fire,” the union said on its website.

The NSW Resources Regulator has commenced an investigation to determine the specific cause and circumstances of the incident.

The investigation will canvass the effectiveness of controls to eliminate or minimise the risks to health and safety of workers arising from the electrofusion welding process including:

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