Hunter miners mark 150 years of worker safety power
In 1876, NSW made worker-elected safety inspectors the law. This marks 150 years of the world's oldest continuous worker-elected safety system.
The Hunter mining community gathers this weekend to mark 150 years of the world's oldest continuous worker-elected safety system. On May 11, 1876, NSW became the second jurisdiction in the world to create worker-elected check inspectors by law.
Worker-elected check inspectors had the power to stop work when conditions were unsafe. Worker-elected check inspectors changed into today's safety and health representatives.
They are highly trained legal officers with powers in inspections, investigations and enforcement. The Jim Comerford Memorial Wall has stood for 30 years.
It records 1,794 names of miners killed across more than two centuries of coal mining in the region. This year's 29th annual memorial service carries extra weight following the death of United Wambo mineworker Paul Phillips on August 3.
The 150-year mark shows a rare long-term victory for worker voice in a dangerous industry.
- May 11, 1876
- Law passed
- 150 years
- Anniversary
- Second jurisdiction in the world
- World rank
- 1794
- Names on memorial wall
Why it mattersThe 150-year mark shows a rare long-term victory for worker voice and safety power in a dangerous industry.
AustraliaAustralia's mining safety standards trace back to NSW's 1876 law; Hunter Valley marks 150 years of worker-elected safety authority this weekend.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 17 h ago
