Journey

Set up a coal mining operation

A step-by-step path through the regulations for coal and lignite extraction in Great Britain. Start by identifying which rules apply, work through the universal workplace duties (including the heavy COSHH, PUWER and manual handling obligations), then cover the mining-specific licensing, safety and environmental regimes, and finish with the compliance checklist.

Mining & Resources Starting Updated 22 October 2026

This learning path takes you through every regulatory obligation for a coal or lignite mining operation in order. Each step links to a guide that covers one part of your obligations. Follow them in sequence to build a complete picture.

Step 1 — Find out which rules apply

Identify the full set of workplace, licensing, safety and environmental obligations that apply to your mining operation.

Step 2 — Set up a safe operation

Meet the universal workplace duties — health and safety, COSHH (coal dust and silica), work equipment, manual handling, fire safety, employers' liability insurance, equality and data protection.

Step 3 — Meet your mining regulatory duties

Comply with the coal-mining operation licence, the mines or quarries safety regime, explosives authorisations and environmental permits for waste and discharges.

Step 4 — Confirm compliance

Work through the compliance checklist to verify every obligation is met before you start or continue operating.