South African mining industry promotes Zero Harm initiatives

The Minerals Council South Africa reports a 24% reduction in fatalities in 2024 from the previous year.

As well fatalities dropping from 55 to 42 between 2023 and 2024, the Council reports a 16% reduction in injuries, to 1,841 people. It says there were a lower number of incidents and occupational diseases.

'It is very important that we as CEOs understand that 42 is 42 too many. This is not just a statistic. These are our colleagues we and their family and friends have lost. We must all understand that we must – and can – get to zero,' highlights Japie Fullard, Chair of the Minerals Council’s CEO Zero Harm Forum.

The Council and its members are aiming to achieve Zero Harm and eliminate fatalities, injuries and illnessess through practice sharing and collaboration with key stakeholders.

Members account for 90% of South Africa's annual mineral production by value.

The Council notes significant step changes in the journey to Zero Harm through its interventions, working with members, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and organised labour.

'The more we focus on preventing injuries, the more fatalities will come down. It is not about what we do after events but what we do before the time to make the workplace as safe and healthy as possible,' adds Fullard.

The South African mining industry reports reduced fatalities by 91% from 484 in 1994.

Injuries have also fallen by 78% from 8,347 across the same time.

In the past 15 years, TB and silicosis cases are said to have reduced by more than 80%, with the incidence of TB cases falling to 220 per 100,000 employees, which is half the national average for South Africa.

Cases of noise-induced hearing loss in mining have reduced by 55% in the past 15 years and is a particular focus for the Minerals Council.