The nascent WA Lithium industry: the mining regulators perspective

Mineralisation for lithium in Western Australia is frequently accompanied by low levels of the naturally occurring radionuclides – uranium and thorium, and the products of their radioactive decay. Collectively these radioisotopes are known as naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM). The Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 and Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 outline specific provisions in relation to worker safety. Importantly the Act emphasises the requirement to identify hazards and the manner in which they will be managed. This forms part of the formal Project Management Plan (PMP), which must be approved by the Department before operations can commence. Radiation doses arising from exposure to NORM is a hazard which is expected to be identified as part of the PMP process. Part 16, Division 2 of the Regulations apply broadly to the management of radiation exposures resulting from NORM and in many cases will apply to lithium exploration, mining, and processing activities, unless demonstrated otherwise. The requirements of Part 16, Division 2 place an obligation to implement a systemic management approach to identifying, assessing, monitoring and reducing radiation doses, and minimising the potential impact on the environment. The presentation will provide an outline of the expectations for compliance with the legislation, and highlight some of the challenges posed. (author)