CCAA releases new fire ant management guideline to support Qld quarries
Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA) has released a comprehensive Fire Ant Management Guideline to assist the heavy construction materials industry in Queensland to mitigate and address the risks associated with fire ant infestations in quarrying operations.
“This industry-specific guideline provides best practice recommendations for fire ant management and regulatory compliance in Queensland, ensuring a consistent and practical approach to controlling the spread of this invasive pest,” CCAA CEO Michael Kilgariff says.
“Fire ants are an increasing biosecurity challenge for the construction materials industry, particularly in South-East Queensland.
“This new guideline has been developed in collaboration with the National Fire Ant Eradication Program (NFAEP) to provide a clear, industry-focused framework for managing fire ant risks at Queensland quarry sites.”
The guideline covers key areas such as:
- Legislative requirements: Providing clarity on compliance with the Biosecurity Act 2014 (QLD) and Biosecurity Regulation 2016 (QLD).
- Roles and responsibilities: providing clear information to management, site supervisors, employees and contractors/drivers on their roles and responsibilities.
- Onsite management practices: outlining responsibilities and offering protocols for staff, new employees/contractors and visitors in relation to fire ant surveillance, treatment, site management and transport.
- Transport & movement protocols: ensuring safe transportation of quarry products within and across state borders without spreading fire ants.
“We have worked closely with the NFAEP and our members to ensure the guideline is practical, science-based, and aligned with regulatory expectations,” Kilgariff says.
“Our aim is to prevent the further spread of fire ants while ensuring quarry operations remain efficient and compliant.”
Access the Fire Ant Management Guideline here.
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