National Union of Mineworkers Sept, 01 2010 Submission: Geoscience Amendment Bill [B12 – 2010] Sibusiso Mimi

Introduction The mining sector in South Africa is experiencing unique problems related to health and safety The NUM continues to actively engage relevant stakeholders on the best acceptable models to alleviate the Occupational Health and Safety problems in the mining sector

Safety in mines The NUM national congress, May 2009 resolved the following: “Through the Mine Health and Safety Council force the mining industry to develop more advanced geophones technology capacity for earlier signs of possible seismic events” Seismic events in mines are amongst the most contributors to fatal accidents in mines

DME, 2010 – www.dmr.gov.za

Safety in mines Between January and July a total number of 74 mineworkers died on duty 32 (or 43%) of these workers died due to fall of ground accident In July alone 13 mineworkers died on duty and 8 of these workers died due to fall of ground

Safety in mines.

Comments on the Bill The Council is central to safety in mines – the available expertise must be used to ensure no worker dies in the mines again Funding is key in ensuring that the Council achieves its set of objectives – this Bill must provide for such The Council must be provided with powers to force the mining industry to invest in safety technology that can detect seismic events early

Comments on the Bill cont Council must improve its relations with Mintek, MHSC and the State-Owned Mining Company The Council must complement the State-Mining Company – strengthen the role of the State in exploration activities

Recommendations Adequate funding is key for the effective Council – this Bill must provide for this There needs to be better coordination between the Council, MHSC, Mintek and State-Owned Mining Company The Council must work with relevant stakeholders in developing technologies to detect seismic events in the mining sector

Thank You Any Questions Tel: 021 461 7049