BHP Billiton’s Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation may soon be transporting sulphuric acid to Mt Keith via Esperance, according to BHP Principal Advisor Communications Peter Knight.

Mr Knight said while the route and dates had not yet been finalised, it was expected to take place soon, with the acid to be used for nickel processing at the Mt Keith Nickel Operation until normal supplies from the Kalgoorlie Nickel Smelter resume.

The product will travel to Mt Keith on trucks with BIS, the contractors currently involved with the Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation.

Mr Knight said the road transportation will be undertaken safely in accordance with BHP Billiton’s zero harm policy.

Initially the transport will require two trucks per day, however it will increase to four trucks per day, seven days a week as the process ramps up.

Esperance Police Senior Sergeant, Paul Humphries, said the Esperance Police had contacted BHP Billiton requesting further details so the Esperance Police could identify any areas of risk in the plans and be adequately prepared to respond to any accidents.