Key statutory position
Underground Manager — non-coal
Direct underground operations under SSE instructions, ensure underground duties are understood and performed, and assist with underground emergencies.
THE LEGISLATION EXAM IN NUMBERS
- 55questions: 15 mandatory, 20 general, 20 on the Underground Manager 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.
The applicable certificate depends on the mine and workforce threshold; check Schedule 26 clause 7. FCMM is a certificate route, not proof of current mine appointment.
The non-coal FCMM pathway includes a qualifying mining-engineering degree or approved equivalent, age and experience criteria, approved risk units, first aid, a legislation exam and character evidence.
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.
- Directs underground operations subject to SSE instructions.
- Allocates supervised areas to Underground Supervisors (non-coal).
LEGAL FUNCTIONS
What the position is responsible for.
- Direct and control underground operations.
- Ensure underground duty holders understand and perform their duties.
- Assist the SSE with underground emergencies.
Schedule 26 clause 7 · Schedule 27 clause 2
PRACTICAL SHIFT ROUTINE
Daily prompts to adapt to your site.
- Review underground handover and restrictions.
- Check supervisor coverage and the required ground, ventilation and services controls.
- Record operating decisions, escalations and actions for the next shift.
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.
Assist the SSE and emergency team in accordance with the underground emergency plan.
Open incident first actionsSOURCE & REVIEW
Read the controlling source.
Schedule 26 clause 7 · Schedule 27 clause 2
- WorkSafe: statutory positions and eligibility
- WorkSafe: first class mine manager’s certificate for non-coal mines
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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