BY ISABEL EVERETT
The NSW
Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is again targeting mines causing
excessive dust in the Hunter with the second year of the ‘Bust the Dust’ spring
campaign starting this week.
EPA
Director Regulatory Operations Adam Gilligan said “Bust the Dust” last year had
been a success with most mines adjusting their operational activities on high
risk, windy days and further improvement was expected this year.
“EPA
officers will be using the latest technology, including drones, to monitor
mines and to ensure dust is minimised,” Mr Gilligan said.
“Dust from
mining activity in the Hunter Valley is a key concern for the community. The
EPA expects all coal mines to be vigilant, to take extra precautions and to
have systems in place to control dust from their operations, to ensure better
air quality for the community.”
Mr
Gilligan said EPA officers determine the risk of dust every day and will be
frequently checking mining operations with the expectation that best practice
dust controls are implemented, including shut down of operations if necessary.
“Mines are
on notice, the EPA and community expect mine operators to reduce dust and any
mines that don’t will face significant penalties,” Mr Gilligan said.
Community
members can report concerns regarding dust risk directly to the mine or to EPA
on 131 555.
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| Image Credit: Lock the Gate Alliance |
