Union flags growing safety concerns after BHP rail site tragedy

The union representing rail workers in WA’s mining industry has called for change after the death of Port Hedland grandfather Jody Byrne at a BHP site in the Pilbara.

Mr Byrne, 51, was killed at the mining giant’s rail yard near Boodarie, on the outskirts of the port town, on Tuesday night.

Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMMEU) rail organiser Warren Johncock said there were growing safety concerns among on-ground staff in Port Hedland.

He said concerns about a lack of experienced personnel were among them.

“It’s been said for a long time that what happened on Tuesday may well be the start of an increase in incidents, unwanted incidents, because of people not being given the proper time to embed their training,” Mr Johncock said.

“It’s all about production.”

Mr Johncock said there was a lack of consultation with workers regarding fatigue management and rostering.

“People have had a gutful of being told what to do, and not having any ability to question those decisions,” he said.

“If you do question those decisions, not every time but a lot of the time, you’re deemed as not being a team player, and it’ll cost you financially when it comes around to the bonus time.”

In a statement to the ABC, a BHP spokesperson said the company would respond to any safety issues identified by authorities.

“We suspended operations for 24 hours for colleagues across [BHP’s WA iron ore operations] to come together, support each other, reflect, and refocus on safety,” the spokesperson said.

“Investigations by BHP and regulators into this tragic incident are underway, and we will act on the findings.”

Miner pays tribute to worker

BHP WA iron ore asset president Brandon Craig said Mr Byrne was a respected and valued member of the team and broader community.

“He will be deeply missed,” he said.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Jody’s family and friends, and we are providing all the support we can to them during this difficult time.”

Mr Craig said support was being extended to members of the rail team who had “lost a colleague in such tragic circumstances”.

Mr Byrne is survived by his wife, Maxine, who he lived with in Port Hedland, three daughters, and four grandchildren.

He joined BHP in 2013 and worked across the company’s Queensland coal and WA iron ore teams.

Death hits community

Port Hedland Mayor Peter Carter said the impact of Mr Byrne’s death was being felt across the tight-knit community in the mining and export town.

He said it was a tragic loss.

“This man goes to work and thinks he’s going to come home, his family thinks he’s going to come home,” Mr Carter said.

“And he’s not going to come home anymore.”

He said it was critical support was provided to Mr Byrne’s family, friends, and colleagues at BHP.

“Because they’re going to need it,” he said.

“You don’t want this to happen in your community, you really don’t. It’s such a tragedy.

“You go to work thinking you’re safe; it’s a sad day for the town.”