BMA speaks out about claims linked to Peak Downs mine blast delay

A mining giant has hit out against claims two workers were stood down for engaging in inappropriate conduct after a delayed blast at one of its Bowen Basin mines.

An aerial image of the Peak Downs mine. Pic: State of Queensland 2023

A mining giant has hit out against claims two workers were stood down for engaging in inappropriate conduct and delaying a scheduled blast at one of its flagship Bowen Basin mines.

BMA have denied the claims stating the blast was delayed because of “normal operational processes”.

Allegations were aired earlier this month that two “blast guards” at Peak Downs mine were stood down after another worker found the pair engaging in inappropriate conduct onsite, delaying a scheduled blast and causing a 2km traffic back up on the Peak Downs mine road.

However BMA have said the allegations were not accurate.

It is understood no one had been stood down and no misconduct was reported.

The discovery of personnel in the exclusion zone delayed the blast on September 12, which it is understood was not unusual.

A BMA spokesman said “the blast on 12 September was delayed due to normal operational processes”.