During 2001, WMC initiated a company-wide baseline health study to identify potential risks to its people and its business from exposure to workplace materials and other agents. This included an Exposure Monitoring Program targeting aspects of KNR's operations where there is potential for workplace conditions to exceed exposure limits set down in company standards. The objective of the program was to identify and statistically quantify the risks associated with the various hazards at sites.

The baseline survey was completed at the Kwinana Nickel Refinery in April 2004. The main agents of concern at the refinery were nickel, cobalt and ammonia.

Based on the results of the baseline survey, a comprehensive improvement program, involving a combination of engineering, administrative and behavioural change controls, has been developed. The program includes a routine exposure-monitoring program. In addition, a program to determine baseline nickel levels in urine has commenced and was complemented by an education program presented by a medical practitioner.

A number of dust minimisation projects have been identified, with completion expected during 2005-2006 (estimated capital cost of $7M). In addition, replacement of the existing H₂S plant is also proposed for completion by 2006 at an estimated cost of $12.5M. This will significantly reduce H₂S emissions to the atmosphere.

The Kwinana Nickel Refinery runs a site-wide program of drug and alcohol testing of its total workforce. This involves random alcohol testing of up to five people per day and random drug testing of up to 40 people per week. Test results for 2004 indicate that compared to 2003 there was a decrease in the number of positive alcohol tests but no substantial change in the number of positive non-medical drug tests. View 2004 Fitness for Work test results.

WMC employees and contractors recording positive tests have been dealt with in accordance with the WMC Fitness for Work Policy. Relevant contractor managers are involved in the development of a Fitness For Work Management Plan for individual contractors who recorded positive tests. Blanket testing of all employees and contractors on site was conducted in November, which helped establish a renewed base line in relation to fitness for work issues. It is planned to continue this annually.

The Refinery continues to support a Healthy Lifestyle Program to raise awareness amongst employees of the key factors influencing their health. During 2004 this included delivery of a Healthy Lifestyle ‘Take Time, Take Charge’ presentation, ongoing access to on-site professional health advice and support of quit smoking programs, with nicotine patches provided free of charge where appropriate.

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