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How to Write a Principal Control Plan

PostedFebruary 23, 2025
UpdatedFebruary 26, 2025
ByNathan Owen

What is a Principal Control Plan?

A Principal Control Plan is a vital element of a Mining Safety Management System.

Similar to Principal Mining Hazard Management Plans, a Principal Control Plan outlines procedures for how to manage a certain aspect of the mines operations. There are strict legal requirements for which Principal Control Plans a mine site will need, as well as requirements for what needs to be covered within the plans. Some typical Principal Control Plans include:

  • Mechanical Engineering,
  • Electrical Engineering,
  • Health,
  • Explosives, and
  • Emergency.

Principal Control Plan

Principal Control Plan Contents

These plans outline how the mine manages these vial aspects of work. There are legal requirements for the mechanical & electrical engineering, health and explosives control plans set out in the regulations. Similarly,
there are specific requirements for the emergency control plan as well.

Mechanical Engineering Control Plan

This plan outlines the key mechanical risks associated with the mining operations and establishes a framework for managing and mitigating those risks. This Principal Control Plan with typically include:

  • Responsibilities
  • Typical Plant / Equipment and Competencies
  • Mechanical Engineering Safety Controls
  • Safety Devices and Controls
  • Specific Risk Management Strategies, including:
    • Guarding,
    • Use of Plant,
    • Refueling, and
    • Installation, Alterations and Decommissioning.

Electrical Engineering Control Plan

This plan manages and mitigates risks associated with electrical hazards, ensuring the safety of workers, the reliability of electrical systems, and compliance with relevant regulations. This Principal Control Plan with typically include:

  • Competencies and Supervision,
  • Managing Electrical Plant and Installations,
  • Overhead and Underground Power Lines,
  • Inadvertent Operation,
  • De-Energization and Lockout / Tagout, and
  • Managing Ignition Risks.

Health Control Plan

This plan is designed to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all personnel and stakeholders involved in the operations and management of the mine. This Principal Control Plan with typically include:

  • Dust and Other Airborne Contaminants,
  • Noise,
  • Hazardous Substances,
  • Ultraviolet Radiation and Ionizing Radiation,
  • Vibration, and
  • Worker Impairment.

Explosives Control Plan

This plan manages any explosives and blasting operations on site. This Principal Control Plan with typically include:

  • Responsibilities,
  • Blast Planning,
  • Licensing and Competencies,
  • Transportation and Storage of Explosives, and
  • Exclusion Zones, Blast Guards and Misfire Procedure.

Emergency Control Plan

This plan is designed to provide a structured and efficient approach to address unforeseen incidents and hazards in the mine, ensuring the safety and well-being of all personnel and minimizing potential damage to assets and the environment. This Principal Control Plan with typically include:

Emergency Contact List

  • Emergency Response Personnel,
  • Responsibilities,
  • Resources and Equipment,
  • Withdrawal Conditions and Procedures,
  • General Emergency Procedures for:
    • Fires and Evacuation ,
    • Personal Injury and Medical,
    • Electric Shock ,
    • Strata or Ground Failure,
    • Hazardous Substances, Spills and Uncontrolled Release,
    • Explosives Incident, and
    • Natural Disaster / Weather Event.

FAQs

What hazards exist in mining?

Many hazards exist in mining operations, for example:

  • Cave ins,
  • Plant and equipment operation,
  • Electrical hazards,
  • Dust and hazardous chemicals, and
  • Manual handling.

How can miners protect themselves from these hazards?
Miners can protect themselves by following safety protocols, using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, gloves, and respirators, and participating in regular safety training and drills.

Do you all mines need a Mine Safety Management System?

In most Australian states, mines are legally required to have a Mine Safety Management System.

Did You Know

One of the most pivotal moments occurred in December 1907, known as the “Month of Horrors,” when a series of coal mine explosions in the United States claimed over 600 lives. This disaster led to the establishment of the U.S. Bureau of Mines in 1910, which aimed to improve mine safety and reduce fatalities.

In the early days of mining, safety measures were virtually non-existent. Miners relied on basic tools and their instincts to avoid accidents. However, as mining operations expanded and the dangers became more apparent, the industry began to adopt more systematic safety protocols. For example, the introduction of ventilation systems in the 19th century helped reduce the build-up of toxic gases, significantly lowering the risk of explosions.

The industrial revolution brought about technological advancements that further enhanced safety. The development of remote-operated machinery and real-time health monitoring systems has drastically reduced the number of accidents and improved overall working conditions.

Articles Sources and Further Reading

 

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