Key statutory position
Site Senior Executive
Overall control and management of the mine and its operations, including emergencies.
THE LEGISLATION EXAM IN NUMBERS
- 55questions: 15 mandatory, 20 general, 20 on the SSE role
- 3 hoursin one sitting
- 80%to pass: 44 of 55
- Open bookyour own printed WHS Act and Mines Regulations, tabbed and highlighted within WorkSafe's rules
Published by WorkSafe WA (legislation examinations FAQ). The exam pass is one requirement among several; appointment to the position is a separate step by the mine operator.
APPOINTMENT
Check the role and eligibility.
Generally required for non-exploration mining. Eligibility includes being the most senior executive at or near the mine, ability to perform the functions, the applicable law examination, approved risk training and two years’ mine experience. Check the statutory exceptions and alternate rules.
Check the appointment criteria in the referenced legislation and current WorkSafe guidance; practice results do not establish eligibility.
A qualification, official exam pass and written mine appointment are separate things. Confirm your appointed place, functions and alternate arrangements.
WORKING INTERFACES
Who the role works with.
- Appointed by the mine operator.
- Coordinates the operational managers and specialist interfaces defined by the mine’s management system.
LEGAL FUNCTIONS
What the position is responsible for.
- Control and manage mine operations.
- Manage emergencies.
- Carry out specified supervisor or quarry-manager functions where those separate appointments are not required.
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PRACTICAL SHIFT ROUTINE
Daily prompts to adapt to your site.
- Check appointment coverage and the operational handover.
- Review critical risks, changes, overdue actions and resource constraints.
- Confirm emergency readiness and record decisions and escalations.
PQM suggested workflow — adapt to site arrangements. Inspection timing is risk-based; these prompts are not a universal statutory daily checklist.
WHEN AN INCIDENT OCCURS
Work through the site emergency plan.
Lead the response under the emergency plan and confirm the relevant PCBU or mine operator completes required notifications.
Open incident first actionsSOURCE & REVIEW
Read the controlling source.
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- WorkSafe: statutory positions and eligibility
- WorkSafe: key statutory positions FAQ
- WorkSafe: Mine safety management system code of practice
Overview of the role-specific functions. Other WHS duties and site procedures may also apply. Sources checked 2026-10-05. Editorial summary awaiting independent professional review. Check current law, your written appointment and site procedures.
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