CENTENNIAL Coal has confirmed a COVID-19 case among the workforce at its Mandalong underground mine near Morisset.
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The Newcastle Herald understands the man worked afternoon shift at the mine.
Dozens of workers at the mine were sent home on Thursday night after news of the man's result came through.
It is understood most workers impacted are considered casual contacts.
They have been advised to get tested and await their result in isolation at home.
Centennial spokesperson Katie Brasil said this morning that an employee had tested positive for COVID.
"Mandalong immediately identified colleagues deemed to be 'close contacts' and they were advised to undertake a COVID test and to isolate for 14 days," Ms Brasil said.
"Any exposed areas of the site underwent a deep clean overnight.
"As a result of the well-established COVID safe practices at Mandalong, including the segregation of shifts and the responsible actions of our COVID positive employee, Mandalong continues to operate."
Mandalong began operations in 2005.
The longwall underground mine has a workforce of more than 400.
It produces up to five million tonnes a year of thermal coal for power stations.
The NSW Minerals Council did not want to comment specifically on the situation at Mandalong, but a spokesperson said there was "nothing more important than the health and safety of our mine workers, their families and mining communities".
"Since early 2020, miners all over NSW have implemented new protocols and procedures including increased health monitoring, cleaning and sanitation, physical distancing, travel and shift changes, alternative work arrangements and more," he said of the sector, generally.
"In addition, our mining members are actively encouraging all their employees to get vaccinated as soon as possible, with many offering incentives for workers who roll up their sleeves, get the jab and do their part to keep their workplace and their community safe."
The Newcastle Herald reported last week that BHP's Mount Arthur site had been administering rapid antigen tests for employees and contractors to screen for COVID-19, with 5000 tests conducted in four weeks.
Ian Kirkwood
Reporting journalist at the Newcastle Herald since 1987. Editorial writer, general reporter, industrial relations, industry and coal.
Reporting journalist at the Newcastle Herald since 1987. Editorial writer, general reporter, industrial relations, industry and coal.
