Ridge, who is currently a director of mines safety, will take on the role of executive director for safety.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore said the appointment of Ridge was “very fitting” as he had been a central figure at the WA Department of Mines and Petroleum for the past 16 years.

“While Mr Russell was instrumental in driving resources safety reform in WA and establishing the RADARS strategy in 2009, Mr Ridge has been involved alongside him throughout the implementation process,” Moore said.

“Now he’ll be able to expand his focus to this new position covering minerals and petroleum.”

Ridge, who received a national award for driving safety changes in the state’s mining industry in June, will continue in the role of state mining engineer while he heads up the resources safety division.