Underground Crusher Access Works

Site: Cadia

Client: Newmont

Service: Scaffolding

Capability: Maintenance

Industry: Mining and Resources

Scope of Works

Our team was engaged to deliver a specialised access and asset protection solution within a high-risk, confined underground chamber. The scope of works included the design and installation of an engineered scaffolding system to protect critical infrastructure, including the underground crusher and rock breaker, while enabling safe access for planned remediation and ground reinforcement activities.

The works were underpinned by a comprehensive risk management process developed in close collaboration with the client, addressing restricted access conditions, ground stability considerations, working-at-height hazards, and emergency response requirements. All control measures, safety systems, and rescue arrangements were established prior to mobilisation, with the methodology for both installation and dismantling phases formally reviewed and endorsed by the client.

Key of Activities

• Identification and management of high-risk underground hazards, including geotechnical instability, seismic activity, blasting impacts, and restricted access and egress.
• Implementation of blasting and firing controls, including full withdrawal of personnel and minimum six (6) hour post-firing stand-down periods.
• Seismic event management, including personnel withdrawal and controlled re-entry following geotechnical assessment and formal clearance.
• Coordination with Newmont’s Geotechnical team to support ongoing 30-minute ground condition monitoring.
• Establishment of emergency response arrangements, including refuge chamber placement and man cage availability for emergency extraction.
• Implementation of exclusion zones, access controls, permit systems, emergency response plans, and induction and competency requirements.