Statutory Mechanical Engineering Services for NSW Coal Mines
Pardus Consulting provides statutory mechanical engineering services specifically tailored for open cut coal mines in New South Wales. Our experienced team delivers practical, site-ready engineering support to help your operation maintain full compliance with the NSW WHS (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2022 while keeping your workforce safe and your operations running efficiently.
Need immediate statutory coverage? Our certified mechanical engineers are available for short-term fill-ins, extended leave coverage, or ongoing support arrangements across NSW coal operations. Use the contact form below to get in touch.
Statutory Mechanical Engineer Services
Under Schedule 10 of the WHS (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2022, coal mines other than underground mines must nominate a qualified person to exercise the statutory function of mechanical engineer. Our team holds the required practising certificates and brings substantial open cut coal mining experience to every engagement.
Core Engineering Services
• Statutory Mechanical Engineer Fill-In Coverage – Short-term and long-term arrangements for annual leave, sick leave, vacancy coverage, or project-based support
• Mechanical Engineering Control Plans (MECP) – Development, review, and implementation of MECPs aligned with NSW regulatory requirements and industry best practice
• Compliance Audits & Gap Analysis – Independent assessment of mechanical systems, plant maintenance programs, and regulatory compliance
• Risk Assessments – Comprehensive mechanical hazard identification and risk management aligned with WHS legislation
• Safety Management System Support – Development and review of mechanical engineering standards, procedures, and management plans
• Incident Investigation – Root cause analysis and investigation support for mechanical plant incidents
• Plant Lifecycle Management – Oversight of installation, commissioning, maintenance, and repair of mechanical plant and equipment
NSW Mining Regulatory Expertise
The NSW Resources Regulator requires mine operators to nominate a qualified mechanical engineer to exercise statutory functions at coal mines. This isn't just a box-ticking exercise—it's a critical safety role that demands hands-on experience with open cut mining operations, mobile plant, fixed plant, and the unique hazards of coal extraction.
Our Compliance Focus Areas
• WHS (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013 and associated regulations
• Schedule 10 Statutory Functions – Mechanical engineer requirements for coal mines other than underground mines
• Principal Hazard Management Plans – Mechanical aspects of ground control, fire and explosion, and other principal hazards
• NSW Mine Design Guidelines (MDGs) – Application of relevant mechanical engineering standards
• Standards of Engineering Practice – Development and maintenance of site-specific mechanical engineering documentation
• Critical Control Verification – Ensuring mechanical controls remain effective for managing material unwanted events (MUEs)
Why Choose Pardus Consulting
• Certified & Qualified – Our engineers hold current NSW Mechanical Engineer Practising Certificates for coal mines other than underground mines or Professional Engineer’s registrations with the required Coal Mining experience as per the legislation.
• Open Cut Specialists – Deep experience specifically in surface coal mining operations, draglines, excavators, haul trucks, and processing plant
• Practical & Pragmatic – We deliver solutions that work on-site, not just on paper. Our approach balances compliance with operational reality
• Rapid Response – Available at short notice for urgent statutory coverage needs across NSW
• Flexible Engagement Models – From single-day fill-ins to extended coverage arrangements—we structure our services around your operational requirements
Statutory Position Coverage Options
Mine operators must ensure statutory functions are continuously filled—the regulation stipulates that no mining activities shall be undertaken if a key statutory function has been vacant for 7 days or more. Pardus provides flexible coverage solutions to ensure you never face compliance gaps.
Short-Term Coverage
• Annual leave and sick leave cover
• Training and professional development periods
• Emergency vacancy support
• Roster gap coverage
Extended Coverage
• Long service leave and parental leave coverage
• Recruitment period support while filling permanent roles
• Project-based statutory support
• Mine start-up and transition periods
How We Work With You
1. Initial Consultation – We discuss your specific requirements, site characteristics, and coverage timeline
2. Site Familiarisation – Our engineer completes site induction and familiarises with your safety management system, MECP, and key personnel
3. Seamless Handover – Coordinated transition with your existing team to maintain continuity of statutory oversight
4. Active Engagement – Full exercise of statutory functions including plant oversight, document review, and compliance activities
5. Comprehensive Handback – Documented summary of activities, observations, and any recommendations for your team
Open Cut Coal Mining Operations We Support
Our statutory mechanical engineering services extend across NSW's major coal mining regions:
• Hunter Valley – Supporting operations from Singleton to Muswellbrook and surrounding areas
• Gunnedah Basin – Coverage for operations in the Narrabri and Gunnedah regions
• Western Coalfields – Supporting Lithgow and Mudgee area operations
• Newcastle Region – Servicing Lake Macquarie and surrounding coal operations
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do your statutory mechanical engineers hold?
Our engineers hold current NSW Mechanical Engineer Practising Certificates (Coal Mines Other Than Underground Mines) issued by the NSW Resources Regulator, as required under Schedule 10 of the WHS (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Regulation 2022 or hold professional Engineering registrations on the NER with the required Open Cut Coal Mining experience.
How quickly can you provide statutory coverage?
We understand that coverage gaps can arise unexpectedly. Depending on availability, we can often mobilise within 24-48 hours for urgent requirements. For planned leave coverage, we recommend engaging us at least 2-4 weeks in advance to ensure seamless transition.
What is a Mechanical Engineering Control Plan (MECP)?
An MECP is a documented plan that manages the mechanical engineering aspects of plant and structures at a mine. It addresses the life cycle of mechanical plant from design and acquisition through operation, maintenance, and disposal. The MECP must be developed by a competent person and reviewed periodically as required by NSW mining legislation.
Do you work with mines outside NSW?
Our primary focus is NSW coal operations where we hold the relevant statutory qualifications. For Queensland or other jurisdictions, please contact us to discuss your requirements—we may be able to assist.
What is the difference between short-term and long-term coverage?
Short-term coverage typically spans a few days to several weeks (e.g., annual leave cover), while long-term arrangements may extend for months (e.g., recruitment periods, parental leave). We offer flexible engagement structures for both scenarios.
Ready to Secure Your Statutory Mechanical Engineering Coverage?
Don't let compliance gaps put your operation at risk. Whether you're planning ahead for scheduled leave or facing an unexpected vacancy, Pardus Consulting is here to provide immediate, qualified statutory mechanical engineering support for your NSW open cut coal mine.
Take the next step:
Complete the form below and one of our certified statutory mechanical engineers will be in touch within 24 hours to discuss your requirements. Tell us about your site, your coverage needs, and your timeline—we'll tailor a solution that keeps your operation running safely and compliantly.