Following a targeted stakeholder consultation process in June, we have now published a new Technical reference guide (TRG): Escape breathing apparatus for underground mining applications (Standards for design and ongoing monitoring) (PDF, 671.99 KB) This new TRG supersedes MDG 3609.
Under the new TRG, in-service testing of self-rescuers can be carried out up until the manufacturer’s recommended service life, whereas under MDG 3609 units had to be discarded in years 8 or 10 depending on the type of apparatus. This change aligns with the United States approach where a service-life plan - reviewed and certified by the Mine Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health - must be provided to the purchaser specifying the maximum number of years the unit may remain in use.
A new escape breathing apparatus design order, which references the new TRG, was published in the NSW Government Gazette of 9 October 2020.
We have also published a fact sheet (PDF, 277.99 KB) that provides information about a mine operator’s obligations to ensure breathing apparatus is maintained in good working order to minimise risk to the user and how this requirement can be met through maintenance, examination, and testing of in-service breathing apparatus.
