Fatality on surface of underground coal mine at Wongawilli Colliery on 1 June 2017
Overview
On 1 June 2017, a worker, aged 48, and contractors were conducting soil sampling and clean-up works around the Wongawilli No.1 ventilation shaft as part of the rehabilitation of the disused mine surface infrastructure.
The worker told contractors he felt unwell and left the work site alone in a light vehicle to seek medical attention. The worker was later found by the contractors lying on the ground near the light vehicle on the access road about 1.5 kilometres from the ventilation shaft.
The NSW Ambulance Service responded to the emergency call and determined that the worker was deceased.
Investigation outcome
The NSW Resources Regulator has conducted a detailed investigation into the circumstances of the worker’s death. The regulator does not consider the worker’s death to be workplace-related. The NSW Coroner has dispensed with holding an inquest.
