Mining executives could face up to 20 years in jai, and the companies could be hit with fines of up to $13 million, if found criminally negligent over the death of their workers at a mine or quarry, under tough new laws introduced by the Palaszczuk government on Tuesday.

After eight deaths in the coal-rich state over the past two years, Mining Minister Anthony Lynham finally moved to bring the sector in line with other Queensland workplaces.