Diesel Particulate Exposure Standard for NSW mines
In 2019, we developed a discussion paper on diesel particulate matter.
We invited feedback from the mining industry regarding the application of a diesel particulate exposure standard for mines in NSW.
The Regulator sought comment on the following recommendations:
- Supporting the introduction of 0.1 mg/m3 limit measured in the elemental carbon fraction into the WES list through SWA’s review process. This would mandate the exposure standard through cl 49 of the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.
- Prescribing a limit of 0.1 mg/m3 limit measured in the elemental carbon fraction in the Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2014, if SWA does not include diesel emissions in the WES or proposes a higher limit.
- Updating the Technical Reference Guide (MDG 29) to provide guidance on the requirements of a principal mining hazard management plan, specific to the operation of diesel engines underground, assessment and testing of compliance with the plan, and actions required, should the assessment reveal temporary and/or long-term deficiencies.
Discussion paper (PDF, 371.27 KB)
Implementation of an exposure standard for diesel particulate matter
NSW is the first mining jurisdiction in Australia to implement an exposure standard of 0.1mg/m3 for diesel particulate matter, measured as elemental carbon, which came into force on 1 February 2021 after a 12-month transitional period.
Mines and petroleum sites will need to adhere to the regulatory requirements of the Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2014, as described in clause 39 (1) (c).
To assist industry in managing compliance with the new exposure standard, we have published a Position paper: Implementation of an exposure standard for diesel particulate matter in NSW mines (PDF, 1.59 MB)detailing our regulatory approach.