Union Update March 2026
An Update from the MEU South Western District and Appin Lodge Executive
Appin Lodge
Delegate and Crew Contacts Meeting were held on 19 and 20 March. During these meetings several Work Health and Safety (WHS) issues were raised.
Issues Raised:
- Mould in the West area at the old bathhouse
- Heat concerns in the Simpson Panel
Updates and Outcomes:
Mould in Bathhouse: This issue has already been raised with management through the HSEC and is currently being addressed. We will continue to monitor the situation to ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and resolved. If the issue persists over the next couple of weeks, please notify one of your Officials or your on-site check inspector.
Heat in Simpson Panel: Our Industry Health and Safety Representative (ISHR), Stephen Barrett, has inspected the work area underground. Importantly there is a TARP in place to manage the risks around this hazard, we strong recommended that we work to this TARP. Steve spoke with deupties who confirmed that a cool tube is in place to assist with heat management. Breaks are also being taken in accordance with the T.A.R.P.
Subject: Working in Heat and Heat Mitigation in Simpson Panel
At the start of Summer 2025 information was provided regarding working in heat in Simpson Main. Work has continued since then to mitigate this heat, while temperatures remain elevated it is important we continue to follow our existing controls and manage this heat.
Information on System Improvements –
- Larger capacity auxiliary fan has been introduced to improve air velocity at the face.
- Crib room move was completed along with intake roadways restricted to increase air velocities in roadways where people are working and normally located.
- Additional pump station has been setup in 18c/t with temporary dam outbye to better manage water which should help humidity and working conditions.
- Panel quantity has been increased by approximately 40% which has improved air velocity.
- Ventilation changes are planned to establish Simpson E Hdg on intake, and establish Simpson A Hdg on return, which will lower incoming air temperatures (≈1-2oC) and again increase air velocities.
Information on Heat Management Controls – various items are available to manage heat locally:
- Cool tubes – have been provided and are available in the panel. In consultation with your deputy, setup a local ‘cool zone’ for use during job rotation or crib.
- Panel Esky’s – have been provided and are available to keep drinking water cool.
- PPE / Lightweight Clothing/Ice Vests – are available (see Aaron Bowler/Mitch Noble).
- Ice/Frozen Pre-Mixed Sqwincher – available to take underground from ice chest at Appin West.
Work to Heat TARP
All work areas are inspected by a deputy to confirm effective temperature and any job rotation requirements.