English Language Requirements for High Risk Duties
Frequently asked questions related to english language requirements for high risk duties in the mining industry in Western Australia.
Underground workers
Following is an extract from the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 (WA) relating to English language requirements to undertake high risk duties in the mining industry in Western Australia.
10.3. Underground workers must read and speak the English language
Each responsible person at an underground mine must ensure that a person does not work underground in the mine unless the person is able:
- To speak the English language readily and intelligibly
- To read and comprehend safety signs and directions in the English language (whether written or printed)
- To understand verbal instructions in the English language.
Penalty: See regulation 17.1.
Employers general duty of care for their employees
In addition to the above, employers have general duty of care for their employees. Section 9(1) (b) of the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 (WA) requires that employers must:
"provide such information, instructions and training to and supervision of employees as is necessary to enable them to perform their work in such a manner that they are not exposed to hazards"
To achieve the above it is important that the language chosen for giving instruction should be clearly understood by employees for their safety. Nearly all instructions are available in English language.
How to obtain a copy of the relevant Act and regulations
The following Act and regulations are available from State Law Publisher:
