Mineral Resources Minister Mr Gwede Mantashe has called for increased vigilance on health and safety in the sector. This follows three fatalities which have been reported at mines this week.

The fatalities bring to 22 the total number of fatalities recorded in the first quarter of 2018.

Health and safety is among the Minister’s key focus areas and immediate priorities since assuming office. In this regard the Minister urges employers and labour to continue to work with the Department in finding solutions to health and safety matters at the mines, through established structures including the Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC).

In 2017, fatalities increased for the first time in ten years, where 88 mineworkers lost their lives, compared to 73 in 2016.

Turning the tide on fatalities in the sector is the responsibility of all social partners – Government, labour and business - and is critical for the sustainability of the mining industry in the long term.

Issued by the Department of Mineral Resources