Unlocking the Power of Risk Registers: Developing a Risk Register for Gold and Lithium Miners
The Western Australian Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation, and Safety WorkSafe WA Mines Quarterly Performance Snapshot highlights the importance of risk awareness in the mining sector. With 149 lost time injuries and 259 restricted work cases in a recent report, it is evident that injury prevention remains a critical focus. Sprains and strains account for 47% of injuries, with hands being the most affected body part at 22%, and Millennials representing the highest percentage of injured workers. WorkSafe WA stresses the need for miners to recognise workplace hazards and implement effective control measures. However, this can often seem like a daunting task, especially with the new mandate to consider both physical and psychological risks.
Case Study: Spring Safety’s Approach to Risk Registers in Gold and Lithium Mines
Spring Safety Consultants successfully implemented tailored risk registers for two prominent mining companies in Western Australia—one involved in gold mining and the other in lithium exploration. Both organisations were transitioning their systems to comply with the updated WHS Mines Regulations and Code of Practice for Mine Safety Management Systems but lacked the capacity to perform site-wide risk assessments. They turned to Spring Safety to develop user-friendly, fit-for-purpose risk registers tailored to their operations.
Implementation: A Personalised, Small-Group Approach
Spring Safety’s approach to risk registers is designed to eliminate the inefficiencies of traditional classroom-style workshops. Instead, we focus on smaller group sessions, site observations, and one-on-one conversations. This method fosters a more personalised and focused environment, where workers are encouraged to speak openly about physical and psychological hazards they might otherwise avoid in larger groups. The small group format allows for in-depth discussions, leading to more relevant risk identification and a comprehensive understanding of site-specific hazards.
This personalized approach also saves time by avoiding prolonged sessions on irrelevant topics, ensuring discussions are targeted and dynamic.
The Process: Five Key Stages
The development of a site-wide risk register involves five essential stages:
- Consultation with Top Management – Ensuring management is aligned with the objectives.
- Planning – Scheduling site visits and preparing stakeholders.
- Site Visits and Pre-shift Meetings – Inductions and introductions to build rapport with teams.
- On-Site Observations – Walking the site with key stakeholders to observe and discuss hazards.
- Risk Register Development – Populating the register with identified hazards, assessing risks, and recommending controls.
Outcomes: A Comprehensive Risk Management Framework
The final product delivered several key benefits:
- Hazard Identification: Comprehensive documentation of all physical and psychosocial hazards.
- Risk Assessment: Embedded client risk matrix with clearly ranked risks.
- Risk Control: Identification of control measures and any compliance gaps.
- Internal References: Full list of internal management system documents, including developing principal mining hazard management plans.
- Legal Compliance: A complete Legal Compliance Risk Register ensuring alignment with WHS WA laws.
- Actionable Controls: Clear recommendations to aid compliance, worker safety, and continuous improvement.
Conclusion: Strategic, Collaborative Risk Management
This case study showcases how a strategic, consultative approach to risk registers can deliver compliant risk management solutions that not only meet safety and legal requirements but also align with the operational and sustainability goals of gold and lithium miners. By fostering collaboration and engaging workers in smaller groups, Spring Safety is driving better outcomes in workplace safety and risk control.
References
Resources
How to manage work health and safety risks – code of practice (commerce.wa.gov.au)
