4 December 2023

WorkSafe has granted an exemption (HS2205) to Todd Petroleum Mining Company Limited from compliance with regulation 17.22(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 in relation to the reduced separation distance between stationary tanks containing methanol and a non-flammable corrosion inhibitor at seven wellsites.

The exemption is granted by WorkSafe in accordance with section 220 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 on the basis that WorkSafe is satisfied that -

• the extent of the exemption is not broader than is reasonably necessary to address the matters that gave rise to the proposed exemption; and
• the exemption is not inconsistent with the purpose of the Act as the use of a water-based corrosion inhibitor and the effects of reduced separation distance in this situation either do not lead to increased health and safety risks to workers and other people or any associated risks can be managed by safety controls at each wellsite; and
• this is a situation where it is necessary and appropriate to exercise discretion to grant an exemption under section 220(1).

The exemption comes into effect 4 December 2023 and expires on 4 December 2028 unless it is replaced sooner or revoked.