Shadow Mineral resources development minister David Ridgway made the claim after the Olympic Dam images were made public this week.

He said the event showcased a desperate shortfall in resourcing within the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

Mr Ridgway said a lack of radiation experts in the state is concerning.

“The Environmental Protection Authority must be resourced to recruit more radiation experts to ensure the safety and security of the mining industry within South Ausrtalia.”

The opposition said they obtained documents under the Freedom of Information act which revealed only three radiation experts were employed to monitor South Australian mining and the environment during 2008.

Mr Ridgway said these shortages were ignored despite warnings from EPA’s chief executive officer Paul Vogel in 2007.

“Mr Vogel warned the Rann Government that there was a chronic shortage of radiation experts at the EPA,” he said.

“Mr Vogel’s warning has fallen on deaf ears.”

Member for Giles Lyn Breuer said the opposition was “scaremongering”.

She was “satisfied every possible action has been taken” to ensure safety.

“An issue as important as this would not be neglected,” she said.

“The EPA very aware of the role they need to play to ensure that the environment is safe for workers and residents alike.

“They are not likely to neglect their obligations through a lack of resources or otherwise in this important issue.”