A routine survey conducted at an Underground site in the Newcastle Region of NSW resulted in NES Technicians identifying a potential fire hazard, which could have resulted in catastrophic outcomes for the site.

During the survey of the underground coal mining facility, our technicians identified a tracking end at the tail end of one of the conveyor belts, with the belt rubbing against the guard. This friction resulted in the belt generating a thermal reading of 207°C/404°F. This reading alerted technicians to immediately identify the appropriate site staff, noting that temperatures in excess of >150°C are considered a major hazard as coal dust can be ignited beyond this temperature.

Should ignition occur, burning coal can reach temperatures of up to 2500°C, which can cause catastrophic damage, serious injury, and potentially loss of life.

The operation of the belt was immediately stopped. Staff retracked the belt to the appropriate clearance to eliminate rubbing. The area was hosed down, decreasing the temperature to an acceptable 44.6°C, and the area was monitored to ensure the retracking issue did not continue to occur.