The Resources Regulator has published its final causal investigation report into the factors that led to an underground mine fire at Perilya Southern Operations, Broken Hill, on 12 January 2025.
The fire occurred when polyurethane (PUR) foam was used to fill a void, resulting in the emergency evacuation of 46 workers, and trapping 5 personnel in a fresh air base. Operations were halted for an extended period with no injuries reported.
The report found the incident was the result of a systemic breakdown of contractor management, hazard awareness, procedural compliance and risk governance.
The report has outlined 5 recommendations for industry. Operators should:
- review and revise their risk management of polymeric products
- ensure that a comprehensive, risk-based review and revision of their contract management plan, policy, checklists, and associated processes is conducted to ensure robust contractor engagement and oversight
- review and revise their site-wide chemical management system, including handling and storage of chemicals
- have a process to complete a comprehensive review and revision of their Emergency Management Plan (EMP) on a regular basis
- the Resources Regulator, in collaboration with relevant Australian mining regulators and industry representative bodies, should complete a coordinated review and reform package aimed at improving the safe use, regulation, and understanding of polymeric products in mining operations.
This event underscores the importance of thorough contractor engagement, adherence to regulatory guidance, comprehensive hazard analysis, and informed decision-making when introducing unfamiliar chemical systems into complex underground environments.
Read the full causal investigation report (PDF, 694.83 KB).
