DURALIE COAL DURALIE COAL MINE BLAST MONITORING PROGRAM DISTRIBUTION SUMMARY

Transcription

1 DURALIE COAL DURALIE COAL MINE BLAST MONITORING PROGRAM DISTRIBUTION SUMMARY Copy sent to: Revision Date Purpose Duralie Coal Pty Ltd Version A 9 March 2007 Review Department of Planning Version A 9 March 2007 Review and Approval Department of Environment & Version A 9 March 2007 Consultation Conservation Duralie Coal Pty Ltd Version B 27 March 2007 Review Department of Planning Version B 27 March 2007 Review and Approval Department of Environment & Version B 27 March 2007 Consultation Conservation Duralie Coal Pty Ltd Version C 12 April 2007 Implementation Leighton Mining Version C 12 April 2007 Implementation

2 1 INTRODUCTION COMPLIANCE WITH DEVELOPMENT CONSENT BLASTING MANAGEMENT COMPLIANCE STANDARDS MITIGATION MEASURES REMEDIAL ACTION MONITORING METHODS AND PROGRAM BLASTING AND RISK OF INDUCED GEOLOGICAL FRACTURING BLASTING WITHIN 500 METRES OF THE NORTH COAST RAILWAY LINE BLASTING WITHIN 500 METRES OF CHEERUP ROAD BLASTING NEAR HIGH VOLTAGE POWER POLES/LINES MONITORING PROGRAM FOR FLYROCK DISTRIBUTION MINIMISATION OF FUME AND DUST PROTECTION OF LIVESTOCK BLAST NOTIFICATION BLAST TIMING AND FREQUENCY PROTECTION OF PERSONS DURING BLASTING PROPERTY INSPECTIONS PROPERTY INVESTIGATIONS SAFETY OF AIRCRAFT REFERENCES APPENDICIES...13

3 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd 1 INTRODUCTION The Duralie Project (the Project) is operated by Duralie Coal Pty Ltd (DCPL), The Mining Lease ML 1427 applies to the Project. This Blast Monitoring Program (BMP) outlines procedures and strategies for blasting management to ensure compliance with blast overpressure and ground vibration limits imposed by Department of Planning (DoP) for the Project. The BMP replaces the Blasting/Vibration Management Plan issued in October The location of the Mining Lease and community monitoring sites are shown within Figure 1. The overall objectives of the BMP are to: ensure the safety of members of the public during blasting; prevent damage to private or public property as a result of blasting; and minimise any nuisance to the public as a result of blasting. DCPL will either undertake itself or retain contactors to undertake the works described in this BMP. G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

4 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd 2 COMPLIANCE WITH DEVELOPMENT CONSENT This BMP is intended to satisfy the Duralie Coal Mine Development Consent Conditions provided within the Development Consent granted on 5 February 1999 and the subsequent modification (dated 30 July 2006) (Note that 1999 Development Consent Conditions are not tabulated below if duplicated within the 2006 Modification or have become redundant). These conditions are: Development Consent Condition 1999 Consent Condition 12(i) 1999 Consent Condition 12(v) Requirement The Applicant shall ensure that air blast overpressure and vibration monitoring and control is generally carried out in accordance with the recommendations of Australian Standard AS or its latest version and in terms of ANZECC Guidelines, to the satisfaction of the EPA. The Applicant shall determine appropriate weather data by taking measurements as soon as practicable prior to blasting and from the data shall predict whether air blast overpressure levels outside the project area are likely to be increased above the levels expected under prevailing weather conditions. The data shall be recorded by the Applicant as part of its monitoring data. Section of BMP Consent Condition 12(vi) 1999 Consent Condition 12(vii) 2006 Modification Schedule 3, Condition 7 The Applicant shall not blast if the predictions in sub-clause 12(v) indicate that air blast overpressure levels are likely to be exceeded at residences not owned by the Applicant. 3.2 The Applicant shall monitor all blasts and record the overpressure and peak particle velocity at locations to be agreed by EPA and the DMR. 3.4 The Applicant shall ensure that the airblast overpressure level from blasting at the site does not exceed the criteria in Table 4 at any residence on privately owned land. Table 4: Airblast overpressure impact assessment criteria 3.1 Airblast overpressure level (db(lin Peak)) 115 Allowable exceedance 5% of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months 120 0% 2006 Modification, Schedule 3, Condition 8 The Applicant shall ensure that the ground vibration level from blasting at the site does not exceed the criteria in Table 5 at any residence on privately owned land. Table 5: Ground vibration impact assessment criteria 3.1 Peak particle velocity (mm/s) Allowable exceedance 5 5% of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months 10 0% 2006 Modification, Schedule 3, Condition Modification, Schedule 3, Condition 10 Development Consent Condition 2006 Modification, The Applicant shall only carry out blasting at the site between 9am and 5pm Monday to Saturday inclusive. No blasting is allowed on Sundays, public holidays, or at any other time without the written approval of the DEC. The Applicant shall not carry out blasting associated with open cut mining more than 2 blasts per week on average over any 12 month period at the site without the written approval of the Director-General Requirement 3.13 Section of BMP During the life of the development, the Applicant shall implement best blasting practice to: protect the safety of people, property, public infrastructure, and livestock; and 3.6 G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

5 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd Schedule 3, Condition Modification, Schedule 3, Condition Modification, Schedule 3, Condition 13 minimise the dust and fume emissions from blasting at the development, particularly during adverse meteorological conditions, to the satisfaction of the Director-General. Prior to carrying out any blasting within 500 metres of a public road or railway, the Applicant must obtain approval from Council (in respect of public roads) and ARTC (in respect of the North Coast railway) During the life of the development, the Applicant shall: notify the landowner/occupier of any residence within 2 km of any active, or planned mining areas who registers an interest in being notified about the blasting schedule at the mine; operate a Blasting Hotline, or alternate system agreed to by the Director-General, to enable the public to get up-to-date information on the blasting schedule at the development; and advertise the blasting hotline number in a local newspaper at least 2 times each year, to the satisfaction of the Director-General. 3.11, 3.14, 3.17, Append C Modification, Schedule 3, Condition Modification, Schedule 3, Condition Modification, Schedule 3, Condition Modification, Schedule 3, Condition 17 Prior to the end of December 2006, the Applicant shall advise all landowners within 2 km of any planned active mining areas that they are entitled to a structural property inspection (unless such an inspection has already been undertaken). If the Applicant receives a written request for a structural property inspection from any landowner within 2 km of any active, or planned, mining areas, the Applicant shall within 3 months of receiving this request: commission a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the Director-General, to inspect the condition of any building or structure on the land, and recommend measures to mitigate any potential blasting impacts; and give the landowner a copy of the property inspection report. If any landowner within 2 km of any active, or planned, mining areas claims that buildings and/or structures on his/her land have been damaged as a result of blasting at the development, the Applicant shall within 3 months of receiving this request: commission a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the Director-General, to investigate the claim; and give the landowner a copy of the property investigation report. If this independent property investigation confirms the landowner s claim, and both parties agree with these findings, then the Applicant shall repair the damages to the satisfaction of the Director-General. If the Applicant or landowner disagrees with the findings of the independent property investigation, then either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution. If the matter cannot be resolved within 21 days, the Director-General shall refer the matter to an Independent Dispute Resolution Process (see Appendix 3). Prior to the end of December 2006, the Applicant shall prepare (and following approval implement) a detailed Blast Monitoring Program, to the satisfaction of the Director-General. The Blast Monitoring Program must include a protocol for evaluating blasting impacts on privately owned residences and public infrastructure (including the North Coast railway), and demonstrating compliance with the blasting criteria in this consent N/a G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

6 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd 3 BLASTING MANAGEMENT 3.1 COMPLIANCE STANDARDS Blasting will be conducted in accordance with the following: The Australian Standard Explosives Code (AS ); The Australian & New Zealand Environment Conservation Council (ANZECC) Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance Due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration (1990); Airblast overpressure limits detailed in Development Consent Condition 7 (refer Appendix A), viz the airblast overpressure level from blasting operations at the site at any residence on privately owned land must not: Exceed 115dB (Linear Peak) for more than 5% of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months; and Exceed 120 db (Linear Peak). Ground vibration peak particle velocity (ppv) limits detailed in Development Consent Condition 8 viz ground vibration peak particle velocity at any residence on privately owned land must not: Exceed 5 mm/s for more than 5% of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months; and Exceed 10 mm/s. Blast overpressure limits detailed in Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Environment Protection Licence (EPL) (refer Appendix B), viz overpressure resulting from blasting operations must not: exceed 115 db(l) for more that 5% of the total number of blasts carried out on the premises within the 12 months annual reporting period; and exceed 120 db(l) at any time, at any residence or noise sensitive location (such as a school or hospital) that is not owned by the licensee or subject of a private agreement between the owner of the residence or noise sensitive location and the licensee as to an alternative overpressure level. Ground vibration peak particle velocity (ppv) limits detailed in the EPA EPL 11701, viz ground vibration ppv resulting from blasting operations must not: exceed 5mm/second for more that 5% of the total number of blasts carried out on the premises within the 12 months annual reporting period; and exceed 10mm/second at any time, at any residence or noise sensitive location (such as a school or hospital) that is not owned by the licensee or subject of a private agreement between the owner G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

7 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd of the residence or noise sensitive location and the licensee as to an alternative ground vibration level; and The Contractor s Shotfiring and Explosives Scheme within the Mine Manager s Rules (refer Appendix C). 3.2 MITIGATION MEASURES Measures will be undertaken in order to ensure that the effects of blasting are mitigated. These measures will include: Blast design addressing aspects including total charge size, instantaneous charge size, delay between hole explosive initiation, direction of initiation (taking into account potentially affected receivers), type and quantity of stemming material, geology etc; Evaluation and recording of the overpressure enhancing potential offered by adverse prevailing weather conditions, particularly low, dense cloud cover and strong winds. Blasting will not be undertaken if unacceptable environmental outcomes are anticipated; Adequate preparation of the blast floor (eg dozing/grading) to provide an even surface for drilling; Inspection of the blast floor to ensure that there is no significant geological weakness (eg fracturing from a previous blast) that may contribute to inadequate containment of explosive energy during blasting; and Maintaining the integrity of the stemming material such that it is not contaminated with foreign matter such as clay which may result in the explosive materials being insufficiently stemmed. 3.3 REMEDIAL ACTION Remedial action will be required when any one of the following circumstances arises following blasting: Monitoring indicates an exceedance of the blasting limits stated within the DoP Development Consent and/or the EPA EPL; Breach of any other Licence, Lease or Development Consent condition relating to blasting; Receipt of a complaint from a member of the public or a public authority following blasting; and Evidence of structural damage to nearby privately or publicly owned structures attributable to blasting. 3.4 MONITORING METHODS AND PROGRAM Monitoring will be conducted using a blasting seismograph which meets the standards specified in the Australian Standard Explosive Code (AS ). G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

8 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd Measurements of airblast overpressure and ground vibration for all blasts will be recorded at the following monitoring locations: Doherty Residence, Johnsons Creek Road Holmes Residence, Durallie Road Schultz Residence, Bucketts Way Note that all monitoring locations: are subject to permission to monitor being given by the property owner; and may be altered or supplemented on the basis of blasting results over time and/or community feedback. Any alteration to an EPA EPL designated monitoring location would require an EPL variation. Blasting results will be recorded and monitoring data provided to the Community Consultative Committee (CCC) in addition to being included within the Annual Environmental Management Report (AEMR). Monitoring results will be kept for a minimum of four (4) years. In the event that either blast overpressure or ground vibration limits are exceeded, the Department of Primary Industries - Minerals (DPI Minerals) will be informed within 24 hours of the blast which produced the exceedance and the EPA will be notified in accordance with EPL requirements. Meteorological conditions will be recorded prior to each blast. 3.5 BLASTING AND RISK OF INDUCED GEOLOGICAL FRACTURING Blasting management practices will be designed to minimise the risk of induced geological fracturing which could increase the potential for local groundwaters to migrate to Mammy Johnsons River, particularly upon cessation of mining. Such practices would also serve to minimise the risk of water resources associated with the River migrating into the mine workings. 3.6 BLASTING WITHIN 500 METRES OF THE NORTH COAST RAILWAY LINE Permission has been obtained from the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) for blasting within 500 metres of the North Coast Railway Line. A protocol for blasting for blasting within 600 metres of the North Coast Railway Line with concurrence of ARTC was established by the mining contractor, Henry Walker Eltin (HWE) Contacting, prior to blasting occurring within that area. A modification of the HWE protocol in 2007 is currently with ARTC for their consideration. The modified protocol ( Blasting in the Vicinity of Existing Railway Track ) is provided is within Appendix C. 3.7 BLASTING WITHIN 500 METRES OF CHEERUP ROAD G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

9 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd Permission will be obtained from the Great Lakes Council (GLC) prior to for blasting within 500 metres of Cheerup Road. 3.8 BLASTING NEAR HIGH VOLTAGE POWER POLES/LINES Transgrid has been consulted regarding blasting within the vicinity of high voltage power poles and associated lines which cross the mine site. Agreed blasting management practices have been employed. 3.9 MONITORING PROGRAM FOR FLYROCK DISTRIBUTION Following each blast the shotfirer will inspect the blast site to determine whether all explosive has satisfactorily detonated and whether it is safe for work to resume in the area. During this inspection a visual assessment will be made of flyrock distribution in the immediate area. When blasting occurs in a location where there is a potential for flyrock to reach the North Coast Railway Line, an inspection of the railway line will be conducted following the blast to determine whether flyrock has reached the railway line. If the railway line has been littered by flyrock, the rock will be removed in order to make the railway line safe MINIMISATION OF FUME AND DUST Fumes and odours from blasting activities will be minimised. This will be done by continual visual appraisal of the level of fumes and odours generated by individual blasts in conjunction with evaluation of the explosive product type and prevailing ground moisture conditions. Where particular circumstances are known to increase the likelihood of a blast producing unacceptable fumes and/or odours, blasting practice will be altered to avoid those operational circumstances where practicable. Where practical, dust emissions from blasting will be minimised, particularly during adverse meteorological conditions PROTECTION OF LIVESTOCK Livestock adjisted on mine owned land will be removed from areas which may be affected by flyrock. The owners of livestock grazing on land not owned by the mine will be advised of any impending blast that has the potential to injure their livestock in order that they may relocate their animals beyond the area of blast affectation. G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

10 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd 3.12 BLAST NOTIFICATION All residents of buildings within two (2) kilometres of any active, or planned, mining areas who register an interest in being notified about the blasting schedule at the mine will be so advised. A Blasting Hotline has been established to provide the public with up-to-date information on the blasting schedule at the mine. The Hotline is available by telephoning The existence of the Hotline is promoted by advertising within the Dungog Chronicle and the Gloucester Advocate on two occasions each year. The Hotline is also featured within the Pink Pages local telephone directory issued by each local newspaper as well as in the Sensis White Pages Directory (Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock, Port Stephens) BLAST TIMING AND FREQUENCY Blasting will only occur between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday to Saturday, inclusive. No blasting will occur on Sundays, public holidays or any other time without the written approval of the EPA. There will be no more than two blasts per week on average over any 12 month period at the site without the written approval of the Director General (DoP) PROTECTION OF PERSONS DURING BLASTING The Mine Manager s Rules for Shotfiring and Explosives will address the issue of personal safety during blasting. A nominal 600 metre exclusion zone for all persons (with the exception of those persons permitted by the shotfirer to be within the exclusion zone for the purposes of blast management) will be established for all blasts. The exclusion zone can also be varied at the discretion of the shotfirer or Mine Manager when appropriate. The exclusion zone will be maintained by placing sentries at points of entry to the blast affected area PROPERTY INSPECTIONS Structural property inspections, with the consent of the owner, will be undertaken (as a minimum) at the following locations on a biannual basis during the life of the mine: S. Doherty Residence, Johnsons Creek Road P & K Madden Residence, Bucketts Way Prior to the end of December 2006, DCPL will advise all landowners within two (2) kilometres of any planned active mining areas that they are entitled to a structural property inspection (unless such an inspection has already been undertaken). G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

11 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd In addition, upon written request from an owner of any dwelling located within two (2) kilometres of any active, or planned, mining areas, DCPL will arrange, within three months of receiving the request, for a structural property inspection by a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the DG, to inspect the condition of any building or structure on the land and to recommend measures to mitigate any potential blasting impacts. A copy of the property inspection report will be given to the landowner PROPERTY INVESTIGATIONS If any landowner within two (2) kilometres of any active, or planned, mining area claims that buildings and/or structures on his/her land have been damaged as a result of blasting at the mine, DCPL will within three (3) months of receiving the request: (a) (b) commission a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the DG, to investigate the claim; and give the landowner a copy of the property inspection report. If this independent property investigation confirms the landowner s claim, and both DCPL and the landowner agree with the findings, then DCPL will repair the damages to the satisfaction of the DG. If DCPL or the landowner disagrees with the investigation findings then either party may refer the matter to the DG for resolution. If the matter cannot be resolved within 21 days, the DG shall refer the matter to an Independent Dispute Resolution Process (IDRP). An IDRP flowchart is provided within Appendix D SAFETY OF AIRCRAFT A visual inspection of air space in the vicinity of blast area will be undertaken by the shotfirer prior to initiating the blast. If there is any perceived risk to aircraft in the area of the mine as a result of blasting, the blast will be delayed until the aircraft has left the blast area. G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

12 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd 4 REFERENCES Development Consent approved by the Department of Planning on 30 July Environment Protection Licence issued by the Environment Protection Authority. Blasting/Vibration Management Plan, October G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

13 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd 5 APPENDICIES A. Development Consent Extract Blasting and Vibration B. Environment Protection Licence Extract Section L7 Blasting C. Duralie Coal Mine, Shotfiring and Explosives Scheme, Mine Managers Rules D. Independent Dispute Resolution Process G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

14 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd APPENDIX A DEVELOPMENT CONSENT EXTRACT BLASTING AND VIBRATION G: ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL

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20 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd APPENDIX B ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION LICENCE EXTRACT SECTION L7 - BLASTING G:ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL 2007

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22 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd APPENDIX C DURALIE COAL MINE SHOTFIRING AND EXPLOSIVES SCHEME MINE MANAGER S RULES G:ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL 2007

23 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. PURPOSE & SCOPE 2 DEFINITIONS 2 GENERAL PROCEDURES 3 Storage & Transport 3 During Electrical Storms 3 Minimum Distance Rules 3 Blasting Times 3 Prior to Loading 4 During Loading Operation 4 Loading Requirements 4 Initiation Requirements 6 Tie-In Requirements 6 Electric Detonator Specific Requirements 6 PREPARATION FOR FIRING 7 Safe Clearance Distance & Zone Management 7 Blasting Within 200m of Main Northern Rail Line & Culverts 8 FIRING 9 MISFIRE PROCEDURE 10 NON-EL STARTER 12 RULES FOR THE CONVEYANCE OF EXPLOSIVES 13 BLAST SENTRY PROCEDURE 14 AUDITS AND PERIODIC REVIEWS 15 ATTACHMENTS 16 Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 1 of 1

24 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. PURPOSE & SCOPE To define the measures and procedures required for the safe practise of shotfiring and storage and handling of explosives at the Duralie Coal Mine. The scope of this system covers all operations at the Duralie Mine, including the bulk explosive storage compound at the Duralie site. DEFINITIONS Shotfirer: Person appointed as the shotfirer under the CMRA for Duralie Mine. Drill & Blast Coordnator: Person appointed by the Manager as Drill & Blast Coordinator for Duralie Mine Drill & Blast Engineer: Person appointed by the Manager as the Drill and Blast Engineer for Duralie Mine. Shift Supervisor: Person appointed by the Manager as the Shift Supervisor for Duralie Mine. (Often referred to as Open Cut Examiner or OCE) Explosive Precursor: Security sensitive dangerous good (SSDG). Ammonium Nitrate compund (>45%) Hot Ground: Ground temperature in excess of 55 degrees celcius. Low Flying Aircraft: Aircraft flying below 100 metres above ground level REFERENCES AS & MDG 1025 Guideline for the use of Explosives in Open Cut Coal Mines. Explosives Regulation 2005 (under the Explosives Act 2003) CMRA 1982 No 67. Coal Mines (Open Cut) Regulation Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 2 of 2

25 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. GENERAL PROCEDURES Storage & Transport 1. Storage and transport are in accordance with the Site Security Plan Duralie and the Dangerous Goods Code of Practice Only Persons who have authorisation under Explosives Regulation 2005 permitted unsupervised access to explosives or explosives precursors (Unsupervised Handling Licence Workcover NSW). 3. No person shall smoke whilst transporting detonators or explosives 4. Storage of explosive on site will be in accordance with Australian Standards for the Storage and Land Transport of Explosives, AS 2187(1), Explosives shall be kept in approved storage unless being prepared for use by shotfirer or authorised person under supervision of shotfirer. 6. The quantity of explosive conveyed into the mine shall not exceed that required for each loading session or shift if no on site storage facilities exists. 7. Receipt of Security Sensitive Dangerous Goods to Duralie site will be undertaken by authorised persons registered with the explosives supplier. During Electrical Storms 8. Persons are not to be within the explosives magazine compound during a lightning storm. 9. Persons being on the shot and loading of shot holes is not permitted during any electrical storm. Minimum Distance Rules 10. No person shall take or ignite any flame or smoking material within twenty (20) metres of any explosive detonating cord, detonator relay or explosive magazine. 11. The minimum distance permitted between the drilling operations and blast hole charging operations or loading blast holes is eight (8) metres 12. The minimum distance to be maintained between a charged blasthole and an energised cable or electric machine is ten (10) metres 13. The danger zone is the area surrounding the blast area, which must be cleared of all personnel prior to the shot being fired. Generally, the clearance distance is to be four hundred (400) metres from the blast area. This distance will be increased to six hundred (600) metres if conditions are identified as being atypical by the shotfirer or shift supervisor. [see PREPARATION FOR FIRING] Blasting Times 14. Blasting can only be undertaken between 07:00 and 17:00 hours Monday to Saturday. No blasting to take place on Sundays or public holidays Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 3 of 3

26 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. Prior to Loading 15. Holes are dipped and recorded by shotfirer/s. Final depths are recorded against design depth. Depths are adjusted to within 0.5m of design using drill cuttings. Backfill holes in excess of 1.0m are recorded. 16. Shallow holes determined after drilling may need to be redrilled - based on the prevailing conditions of the shot. Holes are marked (with tape or other) and the shotfirer will confer with supervisor and/or planning personnel to determine a course of action. 17. Proposed blast area is approved for loading by Drill & Blast Coordinator or Production Superintendent verbal or otherwise. Documentation for of loading and survey of finished holes is made available to shotfirer prior to commencement of bulk explosive delivery to boreholes. 18. Prior to the commencement of any shot hole loading operations the perimeter of the area in which holes are to be loaded, shall be clearly marked or effectively barricaded to prevent unauthorised entry. Authority to enter blast area is required from shift supervisor or shotfirers. 19. Warning signs, shall be clearly displayed at areas where access to the shot is possible, and marked with the words Danger Shotfiring. 20. The shotfirer shall satisfy him/herself that prior to loading operations comencing, that no hot ground exists in any hole. If in the shotfirers opinion a blasthole displays characteristics of a hot hole (e.g. presence of steam, hole surface hot to touch) then that hole shall be measured by thermometer to determine its temperature. Hot ground is defined as ground exceeding 55 o C. Any abnormal temperatures shall be immediately reported to the Manager and no explosives are to be placed in any hole, which is suspected of being hot, unless under conditions as specified by the Manager. During Loading Operation 21. No smoking area - No person shall smoke within the designated area. 22. Only authorised personnel shall be permitted within the marked confines of the area in which shot loading is taking place. Authority to enter active loading blast area is required from shift supervisor or shotfirers. 23. Only approved types of explosive, detonating cord or relay shall be used. 24. Blast holes shall be loaded in accordance with the design approved by the Drill and Blast Coordinator or Engineer. Any variation to loading is to be approved by the Drill and Blast Coordinator, Engineer or Mine Manager prior to that loading taking place. 25. Protective equipment as specified must be worn during the loading operation ie: Broadbrim soft hats during hot weather. 26. Cartridge explosives shall not be forcibly pressed into any hole. The shotfirer shall satisfy himself/herself that for all holes, there is a clearance of at least 15% over the diameter of the cartridge being used and the wall of the hole. Loading Requirements 27. The shotfirer, prior to loading operations shall ensure no obstructions are in the blast hole(s), which could affect the charging of the blast hole. 28. All holes shall be stemmed, with drill cuttings or other material approved by an inspector, as soon as practicable after loading. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 4 of 4

27 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. 29. Blast holes are to be charged in sequence so that in the event of unforeseen circumstances necessitating early firing, the charged holes can be squared off and initiated where practicable. 30. Any spillage of explosive will be cleaned up by the Shotfirer prior to the vehicle conveying bulk explosive leaving the blast area. 31. All explosive not used or not secured in a blast hole will be returned to the magazine or removed from the mine at the end of shift. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 5 of 5

28 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. Initiation Requirements 32. Blast Clearance Management Protocols are in force. [See PREPARATION FOR FIRING] 33. All shots shall be initiated as soon as practicable after loading is completed 34. No more holes shall be charged than is intended to be blasted in the one initiation location. Tie-In Requirements 35. Connection of the down line to the trunk lines will only be carried out on the day of firing unless approved by the Mine Manager. 36. Downlines shall be connected to the trunk lines in accordance with the shot design. Sleeping Shots 37. Shots may not be ( slept ) for more than seven (7) days without the permission of the Mine Manager. Electric Detonator Specific Requirements 38. The minimum distance between an energised cable or electric machine and an electric detonator being used on blasting operations is ten (10) metres. 39. The minimum distance to be maintained between an electric detonator being used in blasting operations and a sub-station, sub-station earthmat and/or an overhead electrical power transmission line is one hundred (100) metres. 40. Radio transmitters must be switched off and not used when within forty (40) metres of a place where electric detonators are being used. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 6 of 6

29 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. PREPARATION FOR FIRING Safe Clearance Distance & Zone Management 1. The danger zone is the area surrounding the blast area, which must be cleared of all personnel prior to the shot being fired. Generally, the clearance distance is to be four hundred (400) metres from the blast area. Areas along the subcrop/surface expression of the coal seam are a special case. This is due to the increased risk posed by interconnections from the shot area to exploration boreholes along the crop line. This area is restricted along the length of the subcropping zone. (a) high column loads are known of or expected (b) the blast holes are not stemmed as designed (c) the shot is a misfire being reinitiated (d) A free face is exposed, which could blow out flyrock. (e) Persons within known location of old bore log holes 2. The shotfirer is responsible for ensuring that all personnel are not exposed to dust and health affecting gases from blast 3. Adequate notice shall be given to neighboring properties surrounding the mine, of the date and time of each blast. This notice will be given by Gloucester Coal. 4. Before firing a shot, sentries will be posted at strategic positions around the danger zone as determined by the OCE and Shotfirer to ensure no person can enter unknowingly. 5. The shotfirer and sentries are to check for low flying aircraft as a part of their check sequence, as there is a low flying zone for aircraft above the mine area. On being satisfied that the blast area and danger zone are cleared of personnel, the shotfirer will commence firing procedures [see FIRING]. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 7 of 7

30 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. Blasting Within 200m of Main Northern Rail Line & Culverts Robert Foot and Douglas Elphick of the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) will be notified prior to blasting. ARTC is notified of blast and blasting distances from rail infastructure in advance -as part of the standard notfication distribution list. The distribution list is shown in Attachment 1. Notice will include information of blast location and distance to the Main Northern Railway track. Blast monitoring results of ARTC infrastructure will be provided by Gloucester Coal and forwarded to ARTC on completion. Where blasting is within 200m of the Main Northern Railway Track, procedures outlined in the Duralie Blast Management Plan will be implemented. This includes advanced notification to ARTC as per Attachment 2. - Duralie Mine Blast Management Plan. Evaluation of Conditions under which Blasting is not to proceed 1. Blasting shall not be carried out during periods of adverse weather without approval from the Mine Manager or Environmental Officer. Examples of adverse weather are: (a) 100% low cloud cover (i.e. the top of the ridge to the east of the mine cannot be seen) (b) Constant rain. (c) Electrical storm (Thunder and lightning) (d) Strong wind (over 10m/s) which may carry blasting noise towards nearby residences. 2. Blasting shall not be undertaken when wind speed and direction is likely to carry dust/gases into properties or populated areas. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 8 of 8

31 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. FIRING 1. Shotfirers Countdown Sequence (a) Call for radio silence then; (b) Sound an audible warning signal via 2-way radio for a two (2) minute period (c) Commence count-down to 1 from 10 following audible signal (d) >> Call specific sentries for CLEAR signal as required (dependent on blast location with respect to rail line) (e) Fire shot immediately following warning signal (or CLEAR as above). Radio silence will continue while the shot is being fired and until the shotfirer advises otherwise. 2. Using Non Electric Starter (a) The shotfirer will place the tube into the port of the non-electric starter. (b) During the final sequence of the pre shot time, insert the shot shell primer into the starter. (c) When the recognised firing signal is given (i.e. blast countdown), initiate the shot. (d) Remove the primer cartridge and tube from the starter. 3 After the shot has been fired, the shotfirer will announce the end of radio silence. The shotfirer will wait until all dust and fumes have dispersed before inspecting the blast area. All sentries will remain in place until the shotfirer has given the all clear and the three (3) short blasts on the siren have been sounded. 4 In the event of a misfire the rules relating to a misfire will apply. Misfire procedures are invoked by the following conditions (a) when electric initiation fails (b) when non electric initiation fails (c) being discovered during the post shot examination (d) being discovered during the removal of rock or coal Electric Initiation The shotfirer will proceed to blast as per the Coal Mines Regulation (Shotfiring and Explosives) Regulation Open Cut Mines Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 9 of 9

32 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. MISFIRE PROCEDURE If a shot fails to explode the shotfirer will make a further attempt at firing the shot if possible. If this is not successful the shotfirer shall commence the following procedure. Non-Electric Starter When using a non-electric starter and a shot fails to explode, the shotfirer shall: 1) Attempt to fire the shot again. 2) Recut the tubing, replace the shot shell primer and attempt to fire the shot again. 3) If initiation is still unsuccessful the shotfirer shall; (a) Remove shot shell primer and the tubing from the starter. (b) Wait ten (10) minutes (c) Replace the lead line (d) Attempt to fire the shot again. 4) During the misfire procedure, Blast Sentries will remain in position and the countdown sequence will be invoked for each attempt at refiring. 5) The shotfirer will remain in control of the clearance area and misfired shot area until such times as he is satisfied that the area is safe, or secured. The handover of supervision will follow only after the shotfirer conferring with the Shift Supervisor. 6) If there are known misfires following refiring procedure or discovered during mining - the Surveyor and/or Drill & Blast Engineer will be notified and be available on-site to locate the position of misfired holes with survey control as soon as possible. Electric Firing 1) Disconnect from the exploder the removable handle or key and the shotfiring cable and twist together the ends of the cable. 2) Wait ten (10) minutes. 3) Examine the cable and connections for any defect and remedy any found, and attempt to fire the shot again. 4) If the shot still does not explode, again disconnect the removable handle/key from the exploder and twist together the ends of the shotfiring cable. 5) Wait ten (10) minutes. 6) If the cable and connections are still free from defects and have been retested for continuity and resistance by an approved testing device, the shot should be refired by the use of another approved and tested exploder following the normal procedure. 7) If the cable conditions are still free from defect and resistivity test does not prove satisfactory a new detonator is to be coupled to the shotfiring cable and the shot fired following the normal procedures. 8) If the cable has been damaged another shotfiring cable should then be used and firing attempted following the normal procedures. 7) During the misfire procedure, Blast Sentries will remain in position and the countdown sequence will be invoked for each attempt at refiring. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 10 of 10

33 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. 8) The shotfirer will remain in control of the clearance area and misfired shot area until such times as he is satisfied that the area is safe, or secured. The handover of supervision will follow only after the shotfirer conferring with the Shift Supervisor. 9) If there are known misfires following refiring procedure or discovered during mining - the Surveyor and/or Drill & Blast Engineer will be notified and be available on-site to locate the position of misfired holes with survey control as soon as possible. Misfire discovered during the post shot inspection 1) The Shotfirer and senior mine official to determine if it is safe to refire the misfired blast hole(s) immediately. This must take into account the factors of overpressure and flyrock potential. 2) If considered safe, the shotfirer will continue with the normal shotfiring procedures and refire the shot. 3) If considered unsafe to fire the shot, the shotfirer will take remedial actions considered necessary. During this time sentries are to remain posted around the danger zone. Misfire discovered during overburden or coal extraction. On discovery of any explosive or suspected explosive, the personnel concerned must: 1) Immediately cease excavating in the vicinity of the suspected misfire. 2) Notify the open cut examiner/shotfirer or mine official The open cut examiner/shotfirer or mine official shall carry out an inspection of the suspected misfire area and: 1) Mark out and barricade the area and place warning signs 2) Move any equipment which may interfere with treatment of the area. Remedial measures are to be approved by the Mine Manager or Mining Official and may include: (a) Firing of the misfire. (b) Clear the blast hole of explosives by flushing (c) Further exposure, by the use of earth moving equipment, then flushing. (d) Any other appropriate action determined or approved by the Mine Manager or Mine Official. Notice of Misfire Where the remedial action includes leaving the misfire beyond the shift on which it was discovered a prominent notice will be placed on the shift notice board specifying the location of the misfire, precautions to be observed and any other pertinent instructions or information. All misfires must be reported to the Shift Supervisor/Open Cut Examiner who will then notify the next most senior Mining Official of the occurrence. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 11 of 11

34 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. NON-EL STARTER Examination, Cleaning and Maintenance of Non-El Starter 1) The starter shall be visually examined prior to each shot for structural soundness and to ensure the air vent port is clean. 2) At a frequency not exceeding one month, the starter shall be cleaned by spraying a gun solvent through the ports followed by the use of a pipe cleaner or air, to clean the chamber. If gun solvent is not available, a similar cleaner/lubricant may be utilized. The port is to be completely dried prior to use. The firing pin is to be inspected to determine that the pin is not blunt and the outside of the post is to be smeared with a light machine oil. A report of each cleaning shall be made covering: (a) The unit number (b) Date (inspected) (c) Condition of the starter Damage to a non electric starter that may affect the operation of the starter is to be reported to the Shift Supervisor, Superintendent, Engineer or the Mine Manager and under no circumstances is such a starter to be used to fire shots. Non-El Starter Storage When not in use, the starter shall be kept secured in the shotfirer s vehicle, which is kept locked when not in use. The shot shell primers shall be stored in the packet in which it is supplied, and that packet placed in the locked cabinet on the vehicle. There is no limit to the amount of Class 1.4 (S) explosives that may be stored but, in practical terms, no more shotshell primers should be obtained that can easily be stored in the lockable steel cabinet in which the starter is stored. Following detonation of the blast, the shotfirer shall remove from the starter, and discard, the spent shotshell primer and the fired signal blast. The shotfirer shall replace the starter in its container before inspecting the blast. If the starter becomes wet at any time, it shall forthwith be cleaned in accordance with Clause 2 above. The Shotfirer is responsible for control of explosive magazine stock. The Shotfirer shall conduct regular stocktakes to ensure stock is being accurately tracked by the magazine stock book. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 12 of 12

35 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. RULES FOR THE CONVEYANCE OF EXPLOSIVES The following rules apply to the conveyance of explosives on the mine site, and between Stratford and Duralie Mine sites. Transport will be by: (a) (b) nominated shotfiring vehicle explosive delivery trucks 1. All vehicles used for the delivery of bulk explosives will be equipped with suitable earthing device. Before entering the mine site the driver/operator of any explosive delivery vehicle will be familiar with: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) the mine transport rules local operating condition site infrastructure and mining areas the necessary safety equipment required shotfiring procedures and rules the site required for the delivery and operations in the vicinity of the site 2. Explosive vehicle operators are to contact the Open Cut Examiner/Shotfirer upon arrival to site, prior to entering the workings of the open cut. 3. The shotfirer/open cut examiners shall ensure that the explosive truck is able to travel safely to its place of work and shall give directions regarding the route to be taken and parking arrangements. 4. The shotfirer is to ensure explosives are kept at a safe location during charging operations. 5. The operations connected with the explosives truck are the responsibility of the shotfirer. 6. The shotfirer is to ensure the safe storage of any excess explosive from the shot. 7. Bulk explosive trucks whilst conveying explosive shall not travel within fifteen (15) metres of a working place except for the purpose of charging a blast hole. RULES FOR THE CONVEYANCE OF BLASTING ACCESSORIES (Initiatives Explosive Systems) 1. Persons transporting detonators and boosters from the magazine at Stratford to Duralie must be qualified under the Dangerous Goods Act as a competent person to handle dangerous goods. Current certification issued by WorkCover will be required by these employees. Persons must have an unsupervised handling licence and be included on the licence to transport explosives 2. The transport of blasting accessories will be done after notifying the Senior Mining officer at Duralie site of an estimated time of arrival of the product. This notification shall be made before leaving the Stratford Site. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 13 of 13

36 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. BLAST SENTRY PROCEDURE Blast sentry positions will be determined by the OCE and shotfirers on the morning of the blast. The intention of posting sentries for each shot is to prevent unauthorised persons or machinery from entering the blast danger zone. The Managers rules defines the blast danger zone as being 400m from the site of the blast. All roads where persons may enter this zone must either: 1) Barricaded off to prevent entry, with a sign to indicate blasting is occurring within the barrier or 2) have a sentry posted to prevent persons entering the area. Each sentry shall possess a 2 way radio to allow continuous contact with the shotfirer and OCE. Blast sentries must be in position for the blast 10 min before the expected firing time for the shot. Once in position noone shall pass this sentry point without permission from the shotfirer. It is essential for all sentries to know the blasting procedures, ensure they understand messages and give clear messages themselves. Ensure you speak clearly on the 2-way. If there is any doubt as to the message given ask to repeat it. During this period before the blast, the blast clearance procedures will be carried out. 1) The shotfirer will contact each sentry and ask if you are in position and all clear. Check that there is no unauthorised persons within the blast zone once more, before replying In position and all clear. Be sure to halt any approaching persons or vehicles. If the sentry has any doubts about the safety of persons or property raise the issue with the shotfirer at this point. 2) Once all sentry positions have been checked, the shotfirer will advise that A blast is to be fired in the pit, radio silence is to be maintained until further advice is broadcast. A two minute siren will be sounded on the radio. Every 30 seconds this transmission is broken to allow emergency calls to be transmitted. 3) After two minutes, the shotfirer will again contact each sentry to confirm they are all clear. If the area is clear, reply All clear 4) After a 2 second pause to allow emergency calls to be transmitted, the shotfirer will give a three second countdown before firing the shot. 5) The shotfirer will advise that The shot in the pit has been fired, radio silence is no longer required, sentries to remain in position until further advise is broadcast. 6) The shotfirer will wait until all dust and fumes have dispersed before inspecting the blast. 7) If there is any indication that material from the blast has been ejected in the direction of the rail line; and the potential exist for blast material to be on the rail line, the shotfirer will notify the shift supervisor to phone ARTC immediately on (04) (Robert Foot) or if not available Douglas Elphick on (04) After the shot has been inspected, if no misfires are found the shotfirer will advise The shot has been inspected and found satisfactory, work may resume in the area. Sentries are no longer required. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 14 of 14

37 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. The shotfirer will then give three blasts of the siren to indicate the area is clear. Sentries and all vehicles are clear to proceed. 8) After the shot has been inspected, if a misfire is found the shotfirer will advise A misfire has been found during the inspection. Sentries are to remain in position until further notice. The shotfirer and Shift Supervisor will determine the next course of action, following the rules for misfires in the managers rules. If the shot is to be refired, the procedure will begin again. AUDITS AND PERIODIC REVIEWS The Drill and Blast Engineer shall be responsible for reviewing all blast records to ensure that proper entries are being made in the Statutory Shotfirer record book and the site blast record folder. The Drill and Blast Engineer shall also review blasting plans prepared by the Drill & Blast Coordinator and Mine Surveyor. An audit of the Explosives and Shotfiring System will be undertaken annually. This audit will be performed by appropriately qualified and experienced Company personnel. The audit will be conducted in accordance with the Company s Safety and Health Audit Surface Operations. This Audit will assess the following aspects of the Explosives and Shotfiring System: Magazine; Handling and Transport; Charging; General Firing. The results of the audit shall be presented in a formal audit report. The Mine Manager has the responsibility for correction of any deficiencies identified in the audit report. In addition to the annual audit, an inspection of the Explosives and Shotfiring System will be undertaken on a quarterly basis. The results of this inspection will be recorded. Any deficiencies identified during such inspections will be addressed by the Drill and Blast Engineer. Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 15 of 15

38 Shotfiring & Explosives Systems Site Specific Duralie Open Pit Coal Mine. ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1 Blast Notification and Distribution List (Example) Attachment 2: DURALIE MINE BLAST MANAGEMENT PLAN Blasting in the Vicinity of Existing Railway Track Prepared By: Drill & Blast Engineer Date: 14/11/06 Document Number: PM Approved By: Mine Manager Date: 14/11/06 Date Implemented: TBA Electronic File & Path: Q/Duralie/Procedures Page 16 of 16

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41 Duralie Coal Pty Ltd APPENDIX D INDEPENDENT DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCESS G:ENVIRONMENTAL\DURALIE\MANAGEMENT PLANS\BLAST MONITORING PLAN VERSION C APRIL 2007

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