August 29, 2025
For Todd Jones, a career in mining wasn’t always the plan—but it has become a 25-year career. Now serving as an Industry Safety and Health Representative (ISHR) for the MEU’s South West District, Jones oversees coal mines from Lithgow to Mudgee and supports operations in the Illawarra. His mission: to ensure the safety of workers in one of Australia’s most demanding industries.
Jones began his mining journey in 2000 at Springvale Underground near Lithgow, starting as a mechanical apprentice. Over the years, he rose through the ranks—first as a fitter, then a step-up operator, and eventually an underground deputy. By 2013, he was stepping in as a relief ISHR, covering for full-time inspectors. In November 2024, he stepped into the full-time ISHR role, meaning he spends his time investigating incidents and conducting regular site inspections.
A typical day for Todd is anything but typical. He reviews incident reports, catalogues investigations, and hits the road—logging over 38,000 kilometres in his work vehicle since November. “People would be surprised how much driving we do,” he says.
The best part of the job? “The variety of places I go and the people I meet,” he says. “Coming from underground, it’s eye-opening to see how things are done at open cuts. And nothing beats improving safety for other workers.”
But the role comes with emotional weight. “The worst part is getting that call in the middle of the night. You’re just hoping no one got hurt.”
Jones admits that mastering safety legislation “you have to know it back to front” and public speaking are challenging parts of the job. Still, he’s passionate about mentoring the next generation.
His advice to newcomers: “Listen to the experienced workers on your crew and keep an eye out for each other. We’ve lost a bit of that over the years, when I started the crew looked out for you and gave you most of your safety advice. It could seem like they’re having a go sometimes, but they’re just looking out for your health and safety. I always tell new starters that there’s no such thing as a stupid question, if you don’t know something don’t be afraid to ask.”
ISHRs – also known as check inspectors – are a statutory role unique to the coal industry that have been in place for almost 150 years. They are elected positions employed by the Union who have powers to investigate incidents on coal mines and halt production if considered necessary for safety.
Find out more about check inspectors and what they do in this episode of the MEU podcast.