Innovative WA projects excel

The resource sector showcased their commitment to innovation and new technologies last week at the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety Awards for Excellence Ceremony.

Five WA projects were recognised for their use of innovative thinking and new technologies, with two Pilbara mining giants coming away with wins.

Rio Tinto was awarded the engineering category for its rail-mounted working at heights platform, which addresses falling from heights, one of the top risks in the resources sector.

Fortescue Metals Group won the safety representatives category with the Safety Barometer, a means of understanding the impact of attitude and distraction on safety.

Department director-general David Smith said the awards provided the DMIRS with the opportunity to celebrate the world-class work that resources companies do with-in the industry and broader community.

“One of our key goals in holding these awards is to raise awareness of the high standards in health, safety, environmental management and community partnerships the Western Australian resources sector achieves,” he said.

“The finalists have demonstrated outstanding work in leading the industry with innovative excellence and they are a credit to the minerals and energy sector.”

The safety and health sector awards were presented for the first time this year, with two of the three category winners focusing on the mental health and wellbeing of their workers

While the prestigious Golden Gecko Award went to Hanson Construction Materials and Kings Park and Botanic Gardens for their restoration guide, Rio Tinto’s Venturi Reverse Circulation Drilling Waste Removal System received a certificate of merit in the category.

The Wiluna Martu Ranger Program of Tarlka Matuwa Piarku Aboriginal Corporation and Northern Star Resources were awarded a certificate of merit under the Community Partnership Resources Sector Award category.

More information about the awards and the winners can be found at dmp.wa.gov.au/awardsforexcellence.