Mining Safety Courses in NSW

In Australia's vital mining sector, safety isn't just a priority—it's a lifeline. With underground coal operations in New South Wales (NSW) facing unique hazards like confined spaces, gas pockets, and structural instability, comprehensive safety training is essential to protect workers and ensure compliance with strict regulations.

Zokal Safety Services delivers tailored safety training programs designed for the Australian mining industry, helping operators in NSW and beyond meet WHS standards while minimising risks. Whether you're managing a large underground coal mine or surface operations, our courses equip your team with practical skills to handle real-world challenges.

Explore our Confined Space Training and On-Site Safety Training to see how we can support your site's needs.

Mining Safety Statistics in Australia: A Call for Enhanced Training

Australia's mining industry drives economic growth but comes with inherent dangers. Recent data underscores the urgent need for robust safety measures and ongoing training:

In 2024, mining fatalities nearly doubled, rising from 6 deaths in 2023 to 11, according to Safe Work Australia—highlighting a troubling trend that demands proactive intervention.
The NSW Resources Regulator's 2023–24 Mine Safety Performance Report revealed that 76% of mining incidents occurred in the coal sector, with slips, trips, falls, and machinery-related injuries dominating reports.
Early 2025 figures show a global surge in mining deaths, with Australia's gold sector alone reporting 27 fatalities across major companies in 2024—up from 24 the previous year—emphasising the human cost of inadequate preparation.
Preliminary data from Safe Work Australia indicates ongoing fatalities in 2025, with mining remaining a high-risk industry despite regulatory efforts.

These figures aren't just numbers—they represent preventable losses. In NSW, where underground coal mines like those in the Hunter Valley operate under intense conditions, targeted training can reduce incident rates by up to 30%, as supported by industry benchmarks from the NSW Resources Regulator.

Essential Types of Mining Safety & Rescue Courses

NSW's mining landscape, particularly its large underground coal operations, requires specialised training to address site-specific risks. Under the Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2022, operators must implement competency-based training plans. Here's a breakdown of core training types every miner needs, with a focus on coal mine hazards:

1. Confined Space Entry and Rescue

Why it's critical: Underground coal mines feature tunnels, shafts, and vessels with limited entry/exit points, increasing risks of oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, and engulfment. Confined space incidents account for a significant portion of coal sector injuries in NSW.
What it covers: Hazard identification, atmospheric testing, PPE usage, entry permits, and emergency rescue procedures.
Zokal's offering: Our Confined Space Training in Newcastle, NSW, includes hands-on simulations and complies with AS/NZS 2865 standards. Ideal for coal miners working in silos, sumps, or ventilation systems. Click here for more information.

2. Working at Heights

Why it's critical: Elevated work in mine shafts or maintenance platforms leads to falls, a top cause of serious injuries in Australian mining.
What it covers: Harness systems, edge protection, and fall arrest techniques.
Zokal's offering: Integrated into our On-Site Safety Training trailer programs, delivered directly to your NSW mine site for minimal downtime. Click here for more information.

3. Emergency Response and Rescue

Why it's critical: Coal mines in NSW must have rapid response capabilities for fires, explosions, or collapses, as mandated by Coal Services and the NSW Resources Regulator.
What it covers: Firefighting, first aid, evacuation drills, and breathing apparatus use.
Zokal's offering: We partner with certified providers for Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue, tailored for underground environments. Check out our Underground Mining Safety Equipment for complementary CABA (Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus) servicing. Click here for more information.

4. Fire Fighting Training

Why it's critical: fire safety is not a luxury, it's a legal and practical necessity, particularly in high-risk environments.
What it covers: How to use fire extinguishers and hoses, executing evacuation procedures and assuming warden responsibilities.
Zokal's offering: Custom modules within our safety training suite, ensuring compliance with Safe Work Australia's mining guidelines. Click here for more information.

Why Choose Zokal Safety Services?

As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 91267) based in Newcastle, Zokal Safety Services brings local expertise to NSW’s mining community. Our mobile training trailers deliver courses on-site, minimising downtime and integrating with your schedule. With over 80 five-star reviews for our confined space courses and a focus on compliance with NSW mining regulations, we’re your partner in building safer workplaces. Book your on-site safety training today and elevate your safety standards.

Why are safety courses important for miners in NSW?

Safety training is critical in NSW due to the high-risk nature of underground coal mining, where hazards like confined spaces, falls, and fires are prevalent.

Zokal Safety Services’ programs help reduce incident rates and ensure compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations, protecting workers in the Hunter Valley and beyond.

Who should attend these training courses?

All miners, supervisors, and site personnel working in NSW’s mining operations, especially underground coal mines, should attend. Zokal Safety Services’ courses are suitable for new entrants, experienced workers needing refreshers, and contractors.

What courses for mining industry does Zokal Safety Training offer?

Zokal Safety Services provides specialised training tailored for the mining industry, including Confined Space Training, Working at Heights Training, Emergency Response Training, and Fire Fighting Course. These courses are designed to meet the unique needs of NSW’s underground coal mines and comply with Australian safety standards.

Where are Mining Safety courses conducted?

Zokal Safety Services offers training at our Newcastle facility or on-site at your NSW mine location, using mobile training trailers to minimise downtime and align with your schedule.

Are Zokal's Safety Courses compliant with NSW mining regulations?

Yes, all Zokal Safety Services’ courses comply with the Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2022 and Australian Standards, ensuring miners meet NSW Resources Regulator requirements.

How often should training be refreshed?

Zokal Safety Services recommends refresher training every 1–2 years or as required by your site’s safety management plan to maintain competency and address evolving risks.

What support does Zokal Safety Training provide after training?

- Zokal Safety Services offers ongoing support, including access to updated safety resources and assistance with compliance documentation, ensuring your team remains prepared.
  
  Ready to enhance your mining safety? Book your course today and trust Zokal to keep your operations safe.

About Zokal Safety Australia

Zokal Safety Training

Standby & Rescue

Mining Safety Courses