CME cracks down on booze at WA mine sites

The state’s peak resources body is cracking down on alcohol consumption at mining camps, introducing a four-drink limit as part of sweeping industry-wide restrictions designed to “raise standards”.

The Industry Alcohol Guideline, released by the Chamber of Minerals and Energy today, will result in a four-drink daily limit, a blanket ban on shots and educational training for all on-site residents.

The guide, produced by the CME’s Safe and Respectful Behaviours Working Group, outlines management and education requirements for how alcohol consumption is to be treated, building on current industry-wide drug and alcohol policies.

It follows the introduction of similar policies by major miners BHP, Woodside and Rio Tinto, which committed to a cultural overhaul in the wake of a string of sexual assault allegations that prompted a parliamentary inquiry last year.

Former CME chief executive Paul Everingham flagged the development of an alcohol standard when he fronted the inquiry eight months ago, acknowledging that alcohol was a significant risk factor which had become a critical focus for industry.

The guide, which is being rolled out for its 75 member companies running mining operations over the coming months, also encourages more food operations and beverages of varying strengths.

CME policy and advocacy director Rob Carruthers said the guide represented a significant milestone in the sector’s work to be as safe as possible and commitment to best practice for both physical and psychological safety.

“Over the past couple of years, several CME member companies have implemented their own alcohol limits,” he said.

“But it’s also very important that there is industry-wide guidance that can be used at any operation, driving healthy behaviours that encourage a culture of moderation. 

“Events over the past 18 months, including the ongoing Parliamentary Inquiry into sexual harassment against women in the FIFO mining industry have strengthened our resolve to provide safe and inclusive workspaces for all of the sector’s 156,000-plus employees. 

“This industry guideline is another step in a process that revolves around continual improvement.

“The guideline will take a period of time to achieve broadscale implementation, however it demonstrates a clear industry-wide commitment to raise standards.

“The ultimate aim for the guideline is that it helps WA mining and resources achieve positive safety and inclusion objectives, and we will happily share it and the research behind it with other advocacy groups in the sector.”

Last year’s inquiry heard more than 250 cases of sexual harassment and assault, with testimonies detailing inappropriate power dynamics and delved into the challenges of a sector that features close working and living arrangements, isolation, long hours and a heavy male dominance.

But it also discussed the role alcohol played in the perpetuation of poor workplace culture.

The inquiry’s report is due to be handed down in parliament in June.