Authors: Johanna Kennerley, Partner & Gemma Sweeney, Solicitor
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Government has implemented (and is continuing to implement) a number of measures intent on slowing down the transmission of the virus in order to prevent our healthcare system from being overwhelmed.
These measures are, however, coming at a great economic cost and are having a devastating effect on a range of industries. Fortunately, in what is an indication of its economic importance, the mining industry in Queensland has so far been exempt from certain restrictions. For example, exemptions are currently available for mine workers in relation to domestic travel bans so that typical fly in fly out or drive in drive out workforces in Queensland are able to continue to commute.
It is clear that the Federal Government is aiming to ensure that mining companies can continue to operate normally for as long as possible but it is important to understand that the COVID-19 pandemic will still raise a number of important considerations for mining and petroleum operations, particularly in the event that a camp or a contractor workforce is struck by the virus.
It is important that all resources companies ensure that they audit their operations and consider how to manage compliance during this pandemic. Particular areas of risk are:
- Environmental compliance;
- Work health and safety; and
- Governance and management
