Filter self-rescuers in underground mines
NSW Resources, within the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, invites comments on the ongoing use of filter self-rescuers (FSRs) in underground mines and the suitability of alternative self-rescue options.
FSRs are currently used in underground mines to assist workers to self-escape during emergencies involving smoke and carbon monoxide. NSW Resources is seeking stakeholder feedback on whether FSRs remain an appropriate and sufficient self-rescue device for underground mining environments, or whether alternative self-rescue options could provide improved safety outcomes.
The discussion paper examines the limitations of FSRs, including that they do not function in oxygen-deficient or toxic atmospheres, and explores alternative self-rescue options such as Self-Contained Self-Rescuers (SCSRs) and Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus (CABA).
Read the discussion paper
Read the discussion paper about our proposed changes (PDF, 114.46 KB)
Have Your Say
Have your say by 5pm on 26 October 2026.
Submissions should be emailed to nswresources.policy@dpird.nsw.gov.au.
Privacy and Information Collection
Submissions may be published on the NSW Resources website unless clearly marked ‘confidential’. This may include publication of any personal information that has been included in a submission. Individuals should not include any personal information in their submission that they do not want published. See the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s privacy policy for more details.