Key statutory positions

Notification to the WorkSafe Commissioner is only required for appointments to two of the five key statutory positions:

• Site senior executive
• Exploration

Notifications must be submitted via  Safety Regulation System (SRS).

There is no requirement to notify WorkSafe of appointments to the remaining Schedule 26 key statutory positions:

• Underground manager (non-coal)
• Underground manager (coal)
• Quarry manager

Please note: While notification is not required, mine operators must record all statutory appointments and may choose to use the SRS for this purpose.

An alternate may be appointed when a person holding a key statutory position is unavailable or on leave.

The alternate must meet requirements (mentioned below) of the position and be appointed by the mine operator.

An alternate must be capable of carrying out the functions of the key statutory position and be available to perform those functions when required.

An alternate must also meet the relevant requirements for the key statutory position they are appointed to.

Yes. Alternates must meet the same training and exams requirements as the key statutory position they are appointed to.

There is no limit to the number of alternates who may be appointed to a key statutory position.

Yes. The appointment of an alternate must be notified for:

• Site senior executive
• Exploration manager

Notifications must be submitted through the Safety Regulation System (SRS).

‘In writing’ may include:

• an email
• a signed document, such as a job description
• an acknowledgement letter.

Verbal acceptance alone is not sufficient.

No. Only one person may be appointed to each key statutory position at a mine at any given time.

However, there is no limit to the number of alternates who may be appointed.

Yes. However, approval from the WorkSafe Commissioner is required before a person appointed to a key statutory position can be appointed to a statutory position at another mine.

Yes. A site senior executive must remain appointed while a mine is on ‘care and maintenance’.

Where work is being carried out at the mine, the site senior executive or an alternate must be at or near the mine while workers are present.

Depending on the risks associated with the work being undertaken, the mine operator and mine safety management system may also determine that statutory supervisors are required and appoint them.