An independent audit of Tasmanian mine safety says inspectors are over-worked and under-payed, among other issues.

The probe of safety systems in Tasmania’s resource sector uncovered a number of critical gaps in mine regulations.

Professor Michael Quinlan from the University of New South Wales undertook the audit, saying serious deficiencies should be reviewed immediately.

Alarmingly, Professor Quinlan said there is only “one mine-engineering qualified inspector available on a full-time basis to carry out regular inspections”.

This is a serious lack of coverage, especially after the coronial inquest following the 2006 Beaconsfield mine collapse recommended the Tasmanian Mines Inspectorate employ six inspectors.

“It’s imperative critical gaps in existing rules be addressed because most, if not all, are pivotal to preventing fatal accidents,” the report said.

The study says mining companies should wear the cost of appointing more safety inspectors, suggesting a qualified coal mine inspector visit on rotation from interstate every six months.

Tasmanian Upper House MP Ruth Forrest says safety is compromised by the massive workloads and low pay for inspectors.

She said the same suggestions were made after a parliamentary inquiry into mining regulations five years ago.

“Whilst the areas of concern were identified as under resourcing in the inspectorate, the need to perhaps use expertise from other jurisdictions where we didn't have the expertise in the state or couldn't afford to have those people on staff all the time, that appears not to have been actioned,” she said.

The audit comes just weeks after three workers died at the Mount Lyell mine on the state’s west coast, killed in separate incidents.

The full report is available in PDF form from WorkSafe Tasmania.