Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Austral is dedicated to maintaining high standards of health, safety and wellbeing performance throughout its operations including Anthill and Lady Annie. This commitment is ingrained in our corporate culture and is reflected in our policies, procedures, and ongoing training programs. We strive to provide a workplace that actively promotes the health and safety of all and ensure everyone is aware of their individual health and safety responsibilities and accountabilities. Our commitment to safety is evident in our track record.
Occupational Health & Safety Management System
At Austral resources, including our Anthill and Lady Annie Operations, we have established a comprehensive Operational Health & Safety Management System (OHSMS), designed to proactively manage and reduce workplace illness and injury. We firmly believe that all workplace accidents and incidents are preventable, and we are committed to fostering a safe and healthy work environment through:
- Active consultation with employees
- Systematic hazard identification
- Implementation of effective control measures, and
- Ongoing staff training
Our OHSMS supports the business in meeting legal obligations, addressing ethical responsibilities, and managing industrial relations related workplace safety.
The Following key areas are incorporated into our OHSMS:
- Planning for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control;
- OHSMS management programme;
- Structure and responsibility;
- Training, awareness, and competence;
- Consultation and communication;
- Operational control;
- Emergency preparedness and response; and
- Performance measuring, monitoring and improvement.
Our aim is to achieve and set benchmark standards in health and safety. The Management team includes systematic reviews and relevance of policy objectives, responsibilities and other elements of the OHSMS. Changes are implemented and communicated where appropriate as part of a wide scoping commitment to continuous improvement.
Emergency Response
An Emergency Management Plan (EMP) has been developed to ensure Austral Resources Operations has a systematic response to handle any foreseeable emergency including:
- Loss of life
- Major injury or trauma to personnel
- Damage to the environment
- Damage to company assets
The objective is to:
- Provide a chain of command to ensure that there is a prompt and properly coordinated response to an emergency
- Identify and allocate responsibilities for emergency management, response and evacuation
- Ensure appropriate levels of emergency preparedness and resources are available to an event
- Identify and plan for hazards and their effects to an emergency at the Lady Annie and Anthill Operations
- Establish and train an Emergency Response Team (ERT) ensuring appropriate training and resources are provided to manage anticipated emergency scenarios Ensure management is actively involved, committed, and reviews all emergency management, response and resources
The control, containment and mitigation of an incident is dependent on the effectiveness and timely response of site personnel. The speed with which personnel transition from operations to emergency response, prevents the escalation of the incident to a disaster. As such the ERT conduct training on a regular basis on a range of possible incidents that may occur on the mine site including:
- Emergency medical evacuation via helicopter
- Road crash rescue and patient extraction
- Hazardous spills and bushfire response
The site-based team consist of volunteers from within the workforce who have a passion for emergency response and a willingness to assist when required. We extend our support to the local community including neighboring landholders and the Mt Isa Shire Council emergency response.
Health & Wellbeing
Austral Resources prioritizes the health and well-being of our workforce as a cornerstone of our safety and production performance. We recognize the psychosocial challenges inherent in our remote work environment, including fatigue management, rostering, and isolation. We are committed to creating a culture where physical and mental health is a priority, and our workforce feel safe and supported when working away from home.
Initiatives include:
- Enhanced Connectivity: Our investment in Starlink technology ensures reliable internet access for all employees, enabling them to stay connected with loved ones and maintain a sense of normalcy while away from home.
- Flexible Rostering: We offer lifestyle rosters with paid travel days to prioritize work-life balance and accommodate evolving employee needs.
- Anonymous Feedback: Our Virtual Safety Rep program, accessible through a QR code, provides a confidential channel for employees and contractors to report concerns or provide feedback.
- Comprehensive Support: The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential counselling and support services to both employees and their immediate family members.
- Wellness Facilities: Onsite gyms and pools promote physical fitness, social interaction, and overall well-being.
- Health Monitoring: Regular medical checks ensure that our employees are fit to work and receive necessary care.
- Safe Environment: Upgraded camp lighting enhances visibility and security, contributing to a positive and reassuring atmosphere.
- Mental Health Awareness: "Are you OK" toolbox talks foster a culture of open communication and support, encouraging employees to check in with one another and address potential mental health concerns.
- Heat Stress and Hydration Monitoring: Infield testing for hydration levels utilizing the MX3 hydration test as part of process for managing heat stress and hydration during extreme weather amongst our workforce, particularly for delivery drivers, heap leach workers, and blast crew.