Safety concerns have pushed Fortescue Metals (FMG) to take over iron ore processing at its sites in the Pilbara.

A WA Department of Mines and Petroleum review of safety at FMG mines seems to be a strong motivating factor in the decision.

The iron miner’s processing facilities at the Solomon Hub mines have been operated by Leighton Contractors, but to recently fatal accidents and another in which a man lost his leg have prompted the actual owner to step in and run its asset.

The incidents also triggered the Department of Mines’ safety review and an independent review by consultants brought in by FMG.

Several teams of inspectors visited FMG's four mines during January and February this year, with a number of safety notices issued.

Some of the mine inspectors spent over three months conducting their audits.

The WA state department says FMG has since met all requirements imposed as a result.

But the company now wants to enhance its safety even further, Fortescue chief executive Nev Power says.

“We will develop in-house operational expertise to run those plants in the absolute maximum efficiency that we can,” he said in a press conference call.

“Safety is always a consideration in everything we do and we have looked to ensure we have the safest, most productive, most cost-effective operations.”

The company says the safety review will continue, aimed particularly at its legion of contractors. FMG claims the 6,000 people involved in the business are all looking for more safety improvements.