A collision at a New South Wales open cut coal mine has been investigated by the state’s safety watchdog, with important lessons on offer for the broader industry.

The incident occurred when a dozer collided with the position six tyre of a loaded haul truck that was operating on an active dump.

According to findings from the the NSW Resources Regulator, the dozer operator expected the truck operator to dump on the left-hand side of the tip face.

The truck operator went to the right-hand side of the tip face following a previous truck dump position.

The Regulator said there was no communication between the operators on the correct dump position for the truck, even though the dozer operator was aware the truck was on the dump.

This led to the dozer colliding with the haul truck’s tyre, which caused it to blow out.

“The consequences of vehicle operators not establishing positive communications with other vehicle operators can, and has been, fatal,” the Regulator said.

“Despite the prevalence of site procedures, operator training and the introduction of driver assistance systems, many operators continue to ignore the importance of following basic procedures.”

According to the Regulator, visual aids and segregation measures should be implemented on site before relying on procedural controls.

“Operators have a responsibility to establish positive communications every time they interact with another vehicle,” the Regulator said.

“Other plant operating nearby should be sighted and visual contact should be maintained where possible while manoeuvring at the tip face.”