Taking responsibility for the safety of you and your workmates
Brant ‘Bugsey’North knows we have come along way with technology and safety since he started in the mining industry in 1990 and this recent article in Coalface highlights why Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd do what we do. We need to look after each other so everyone gets to go home safe at the end of the day.
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Strengthen the safety of workplaces that process crystalline silica substances (CSS)
Winston Churchill once said, “Success is not final, Failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts” and James Clear, author of the book Atomic Habits, has said many things about continuous effort, including that it is a daily battle and that small improvements add up over time.
Maintaining safety habits demands ongoing effort to safeguard the workforce by staying compliant with changes in safety regulations.
You may be aware or not aware but as of September 1, 2024, new regulations came into effect to strengthen the safety of workplaces that process crystalline silica substances (CSS). These regulations apply to all materials that contain at least 1% crystalline silica, including engineered stone.
What are the new regulations?
- Businesses must assess if processing CSS will be high risk.
- If processing is high risk, businesses must put in place additional controls and a risk control plan.
- Businesses may need to monitor air quality and/or health of workers.
- Businesses must notify the regulator if they process legacy engineered stone.
Why are these regulations important?
Breathing in crystalline silica dust can cause silicosis, a disease that can be disabling or fatal. The build-up of scar tissue eventually reduces the exchange of oxygen in the lungs and causes shortness of breath that progressively worsens.
Other symptoms of silicosis can include chest pain and a harsh, dry cough that may produce blood. There is no cure for silicosis.
What can businesses do to comply?
- Assess the risk of silica dust in their workplace.
- Implement control measures to reduce exposure to silica dust.
- Monitor air quality if there is a risk of silica dust.
- Train workers about the risks of silica dust and how to stay safe.
- Monitor the health of workers who are exposed to silica dust.
What are some high-risk activities that involve silica dust?
- Cutting, grinding, or polishing natural and engineered stone
- Excavation, earth moving, and drilling
- Clay and stone processing
- Paving and surfacing
- Mining, quarrying, and mineral ore treating
Stay Compliant with Mandatory Silica Education
With the enforcement of stricter regulations on crystalline silica in Australia, it’s imperative for professionals in construction and related industries to obtain appropriate training. At Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd (RTO 41033), we provide comprehensive courses designed to meet these regulatory requirements and enhance workplace safety.
Our Specialized Silica Training Courses (Face to Face or MS Teams online):
1. Silica Awareness Training:
- Course Overview: This course educates participants on the health hazards associated with crystalline silica exposure and the necessary precautions to mitigate these risks.
Key Topics:
- Identification of materials containing silica
- Health effects of silica dust
- Implementation of control measures
- Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Who Should Attend: Workers and supervisors involved in tasks that may expose them to silica dust, such as cutting, grinding, or drilling materials like concrete, bricks, or stone.
2. CPCSIL3001 – Work with Products and Materials Containing Crystalline Silica:
- Course Overview: This unit provides participants with the skills and knowledge required to work safely with products and materials containing crystalline silica.
Key Topics:
- Planning and preparing for work with silica-containing materials
- Selecting and using appropriate tools and equipment
- Applying safe work practices to minimize exposure
- Conducting clean-up and decontamination procedures
- Who Should Attend: Tradespeople and construction workers who handle materials such as engineered stone, concrete, or tiles.
3. CPCSIL4001 – Supervise and manage work with products and materials generating respirable crystalline silica
- Course Overview:
Key Topics:
- Plan and prepare for work.
- Conduct workplace briefings and consultations.
- Implement safety requirements.
- Manage worksite operations.
- Oversee compliant clean-up, maintenance and storage
operations. - Review workplace operations.
- Who Should Attend: The unit is suitable for persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), employers, supervisors
and managers responsible for ensuring the health and safety of employees, contractors and subcontractors
and suppliers when working with products and materials containing CS.
Why Choose Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd?
- Expert Trainers: Our instructors possess extensive industry experience and are well-versed in current regulations and best practices.
- Flexible Delivery: We offer training sessions at our state-of-the-art facilities in Beresfield, NSW, or can arrange on-site training to accommodate your team’s needs. We can deliver online via MS Teams which can assist delivery for multiple and remote sites.
- National Accreditation: As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 41033), our courses meet national standards, ensuring you receive recognized and respected certifications.
Enrol Today:
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ensure your team is trained, compliant, and safe. Contact us at 1300 356 686 or email enquiries@newcastlerescue.com.au to register for our upcoming courses.
Stay ahead of regulatory changes and prioritize safety with Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd.
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Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd: Training, Safety, and Expertise at Your Fingertips!
Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd: Training, Safety, and Expertise at Your Fingertips!
📍 Location:
Located in the heart of Newcastle, NSW, Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd provides world-class training and rescue services to industries across Australia and Internationally. Our centrally located facility is easily accessible, offering both convenience and the highest standard of safety training.
🏗️ State-of-the-Art Training Facilities:
At Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy, we pride ourselves on our cutting-edge training facilities designed to prepare individuals and teams for real-world emergencies. Our specialized simulators ensure you’re trained in the most realistic, controlled environments. Our practical training area is fitted with a confined space simulator with both horizontal and vertical access points, platforms used for heights training, low voltage rescue lock out simulators and open areas for the hands-on component of our fire extinguisher training.
• Heights & Confined Space Simulator:
Our advanced simulator for height and confined space training replicates the most challenging environments. Participants gain hands-on experience with equipment, procedures, and emergency response techniques in a safe but realistic setting. Perfect for industries where worker safety in complex environments is crucial.
• Asbestos Practical Training Simulator (SafeWork Approved):
Asbestos safety is a top priority in many industries, and our SafeWork-approved Asbestos Practical Training Simulator ensures participants learn how to handle asbestos safely and effectively. With real-life scenarios and expert instructors, we train you to mitigate risks and comply with all safety standards.
• Silica Safety Training:
Silica dust exposure is a significant health hazard in industries like construction, mining, and manufacturing. Our Silica Safety Training is designed to equip workers with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves from silica dust exposure. Through practical demonstrations and risk assessment techniques, we cover everything from correct use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to engineering controls and hygiene practices. Our course ensures you meet industry standards and work towards a safer, healthier workplace.
⚙️ Equipment and Consumables:
Our facility is fully stocked with all the latest equipment and consumables, so you’re always ready for the next challenge. From rescue gear to protective equipment and consumables for practical training, we ensure that each training session is as authentic as possible.
🔧 Why Choose Us?
• Highly skilled, accredited trainers with years of experience in relevant industry.
• Real-world, hands-on experience in rescue, safety, and emergency scenarios.
• Comprehensive, industry-recognised certifications.
• A dedicated, modern training environment designed for maximum learning and safety.
Ready to enhance your skills and ensure workplace safety? Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy is your go-to provider for industry-leading training.
Contact us today to book your next training session or to learn more about our offerings!
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How deadly dust from gold, coal, asbestos and silica plagues Australia
…In October the NSW government increased the maximum prison sentence to ten years for employers who fail to deal adequately with deadly silica dust, and increased the maximum fine from $798,000 to $2.2 million…
….Inhaling microscopic, invisible asbestos fibres can cause, among other diseases, a fatal cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen called mesothelioma. Its symptoms can emerge up to 50 years after exposure.
Australia still has one of the highest death rates from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses…
It’s estimated that last year alone, 761 people died in Australia from mesothelioma.
Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd offer Silica Training Courses to provide education around the specific skills and knowledge required to supervise and manage those working with products and materials that generate respirable crystalline silica (RCS).
This includes preparing for and identifying tools and equipment, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) to be used while working with products and materials containing CS.
We offer awareness training courses for both Asbestos and Silica.
Also the Remove Non-Friable Asbestos, Friable Asbestos and Supervise Asbestos Training courses for specific training around awareness and management. When asbestos containing materials (ACM) are present, or even suspected of being present in the workplace, where only qualified personnel are able to safely manage or remove it.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-25/asbestos-coal-gold-silica-mining-and-deadly-dust/102968642
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𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮!🌟 Hear her inspiring journey and experiences during her employment at Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy




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Prepare Your Workplace for Fire Season
Prepare Your Workplace for Fire Season: Face-to-Face Fire Training with Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy
As we enter another challenging fire season here in New South Wales, the importance of preparedness has never been clearer. Fire safety training isn’t just a regulatory requirement – it’s a critical measure that can make a life-saving difference in an emergency. At Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd, we’re proud to be on the front lines, offering face-to-face fire safety training to workplaces across NSW. Our trainers have emergency services backgrounds. Our courses, including Fire Warden, Chief Fire Warden, and Fire Extinguisher Training, equip individuals, organisations, and communities with the skills they need to stay safe and resilient in the face of fire hazards.
Why Fire Training Matters
Fire emergencies don’t just threaten property; they endanger lives. Having trained fire wardens and safety-conscious employees in your workplace can dramatically improve response times and increase the effectiveness of your emergency procedures. By investing in fire training, you’re not only meeting safety standards but actively protecting the well-being of your team and safeguarding your business assets.
Our Training Offerings
- Fire Warden Training: This course teaches employees how to effectively respond to emergencies, including evacuation procedures, hazard identification, and teamwork in crisis situations. Fire wardens play a crucial role in managing safe evacuations and are often the first line of defense in a fire emergency.
- Chief Fire Warden Training: A step up from fire warden training, this course is for individuals who will lead the emergency response. Chief Fire Wardens have a higher level of responsibility and need the skills to coordinate responses, manage communication with emergency services, and lead post-incident evaluations.
- Fire Extinguisher Training: Quick, effective action with a fire extinguisher can mean the difference between a small mishap and a large-scale disaster. Our training covers the proper use of fire extinguishers for different types of fires, ensuring your team knows exactly what to do if a fire starts.
The Benefits of Face-to-Face Training
While online courses provide convenience, nothing replaces the effectiveness of hands-on, face-to-face training. Our trainers bring real-life experience and practical insights, making our courses interactive, engaging, and tailored to your workplace environment. This approach helps build confidence and muscle memory, allowing participants to act decisively under pressure.
Book Your Fire Safety Training Today
At Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy, we’re committed to building safer workplaces and empowering individuals with essential fire safety skills. Contact us today to book fire warden, chief fire warden, or fire extinguisher training. Equip your team with the knowledge they need, and take proactive steps to safeguard your workplace this fire season.
For bookings and inquiries, visit our website or call our team today.
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Mastering the Heights: The Importance of Safety in Working at Heights
Our recent travel to a Southeast Asia city working and experiencing people and cultures led to a conversation with a hospitality worker in Chiang Mai, the largest city in mountainous Northern Thailand. What came of discussions about what to see, do and taste was the next day travelling to the highest spot in Thailand in the Doi Inthanon National Park which is over 2,500 above sea level. Travel was a few hours by car each way, stopping at villages on the way there and back with coffee and fresh fruit and nuts in abundance. The drop in temperature was surprising with cold intense winds and nestled within the clouds making me wish I had dressed warmer. I am a confident curious traveller and very experienced with heights in many scenarios throughout my career. I do find when exploring new destinations travellers all around the world myself included seek the highest point to feel awe and to remind ourselves in a place of a world much bigger than ourselves.
Working at heights is a fundamental aspect of many industries, ranging from mining, oil & gas, construction and maintenance to telecommunications and emergency services. At Newcastle Rescue and Consultancy RTO 41033, we specialize in equipping workers with the skills, knowledge and practical application needed to safely navigate and operate in these elevated environments.
Types of Heights Workers Encounter
Workers in various industries often find themselves needing to climb significant heights. Some common examples include:
- Construction Sites: Scaffolding and tall buildings can often require workers to operate hundreds of feet above ground.
- Telecommunications: Technicians regularly climb cell towers, which can be over 1,000 feet tall.
- Wind Energy: Wind turbine technicians need to scale turbines that are often more than 300 feet high.
- Industrial Maintenance: Facilities with large machinery and infrastructure, such as factories and warehouses, frequently have elevated platforms and catwalks.
- Emergency Services: Firefighters and rescue teams often need to ascend ladders and other structures to save lives and manage emergencies.
Understanding the heights of some of the world’s most notable landmarks can provide perspective on the challenges faced by workers at heights:
- Burj Khalifa, UAE is at 828 metres, this is the tallest building in the world.
- Aoraki / Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Its height, as of 2014, is listed as 3,724 metres.
- One World Trade Centre, USA: This iconic building is 541 metres tall.
- Mount Wilhelm is the highest mountain in Papua New Guinea at 4,509 metres.
- Eiffel Tower, France: While not the tallest, it is a recognizable landmark at 324 metres).
Each country boasts its own architectural marvels and natural high points, all of which present unique challenges and awe-inspiring views.
The Importance of Safety
Safety is paramount when working at heights. Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. Proper training, use of safety equipment, and adherence to safety protocols are crucial to mitigating these risks. At Newcastle Rescue and Consultancy, our training programs emphasize:
Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards before beginning the work.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensuring all workers are equipped with the necessary gear, such as harnesses and helmets.
Emergency Preparedness: Training for potential accidents and ensuring all workers know the emergency procedures.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Keeping all equipment in optimal condition to prevent failures.
From Skills to Adventure
The skills you acquire through our training programs not only enhance your safety and efficiency at work but also open the door to exhilarating adventures. Imagine applying your height safety expertise to:
- Mountain Climbing: Tackling some of the world’s highest peaks.
- Skydiving: Experiencing the thrill of freefall with confidence in your safety equipment.
- Bungee Jumping: Enjoying an adrenaline rush, knowing you are well-prepared and safe.
At Newcastle Rescue and Consultancy RTO 41033, we believe that the skills you learn today in heights training can lead to the adventures you take tomorrow. Whether you are ascending a skyscraper or exploring the world’s tallest landmarks, our training ensures you are prepared for the challenges ahead.
Working at heights is an integral part of many professions, and the importance of professional training and safety measures cannot be overstated. At Newcastle Rescue and Consultancy, we are committed to providing comprehensive quality training that not only keeps you safe at work but also equips you with skills that can transform your professional and personal life. Join us and reach new heights with confidence and prepare you for your next adventure.
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Glencore Coal’s 2025 Apprenticeship Program Open
Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy Pty Ltd RTO: 41033 provides safety training courses developing theory and practical skills required for Industry and contributing to lifelong good safety habits. Make a commitment to education and safety. Become the type of person to value safety and upskill now or refresh current competencies to be industry ready for opportunities that arise such as apprenticeship programs . Find a course such as LVRCPR, Confined space, First Aid, Heights, Safety Access the rail corridor and more.
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Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy: Your Trusted Partner in Safety, Registered with NSW Government
At Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy, safety is not just a priority; it’s our passion. We’ve been serving top-tier businesses and organizations Nationally and Internationally with safety solutions for years. And now, we’re excited to announce a significant milestone: we are officially registered suppliers for the NSW Government through the Buy.nsw supplier hub.
Why Choose Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy ?
- Trusted Expertise: With years of experience in the safety and high-risk industry, our team brings unparalleled expertise to every project. From risk assessments to emergency response training, we’re committed to keeping your workplace safe and secure.
- Comprehensive Solutions: Whether you’re in construction, healthcare, mining or any other industry, we offer a wide range of safety services tailored to your specific needs. From safety consulting to specialised rescue teams, we have the resources to address any safety challenge.
- Government Endorsement: Being registered suppliers for the NSW Government is more than just a badge; it’s a testament to our commitment to excellence. It means that government agencies across the state trust us to deliver reliable safety solutions that meet their rigorous standards.
Our Partnership with Government Agencies: Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy, a local Hunter Region business is proud to already work with many government agencies, helping them enhance safety protocols and mitigate risks. Now, as registered suppliers, we’re even better positioned to support government initiatives and contribute to the safety and well-being of communities across NSW. Safety training deliveries to date to many of our NSW local government council clients include Confined Space, Asbestos (Mon Friable, Friable & Supervision of Asbestos), Silica, LV Rescue/CPR, Breathing Apparatus, Working Safely at Heights, Tower Rescue, First Aid Safely Access the Rail Corridor, Fire training, Manual Handling……. the list goes on.
How to Get Started: Whether you’re a government agency looking for trusted safety partners or a business seeking to elevate your safety standards, Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy is here to help. Get in touch with us today to discuss your safety needs and explore how we can support you.
At Newcastle Rescue & Consultancy, safety is more than just a business—it’s our mission. With our proven track record, comprehensive solutions, and now, official recognition from the NSW Government, we’re ready to take safety to new heights to ensure everyone goes home safely. Join us in making workplaces across NSW safer, one partnership at a time.
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