Methane Risk at Mining Facility
The risk of a methane leak has caused an underground coal mine to close in Hunter Valley.
Workers were told to halt all procedures at the confined space until a proper investigation has been conducted. The Department of Trade and Investment closed the facility after becoming aware of unsafe levels of methane.
The vice president of the Construction Forestry Mining and Energy union, Robin Williams stated that the mine has been experiencing ventilation troubles.Williams said that while the closure will cause lead to financial losses, the facility had long been experiencing problems.
The resources minister for New South Wales has requested a report on the status on the issue and has stated that the department will continue to work to ensure that the issue is dealt in a acceptable manner.
The minister claims that the safety of the workers to be the most important matter.
Source : http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/news/methane-fears-shutdown-coal-mine
