Lives will depend on the way our surface mines handle the return to 100% productivity following the COVID-19 lockdown period, according to the industry's association, ASPASA.
Every effort should, therefore, be made to prevent the transmission of the disease and to arrest, or at least slow its progression, to give the medical fraternity time to prepare an effective response. The association has called upon its members and the industry at large to adhere to COVID-19 regulations in all ways including social distancing, PPE and hygiene.
“However, managers need to take the time to study the requirements and how they apply to their operation to avoid unnecessary complications and expenses. It is already clear that a large number of mine inspectors are not fully aware of requirements and are trying to insist on certain obligations and constraints that do not apply to our industry.
“For example, transport is only compulsory when an operation brings back workers from the outlying areas, not for daily attendance to work. Once the workers are back, they need to sort out their transport as it was before the lockdown. In terms of screening, it is a requirement for all employees returning to work to be screened, and only when they show signs, then they need to be tested. Screening should be done frequently, some daily but not longer than five days between screening.
“Although Minister of Minerals and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, has visited a number of mines and indicated that he is reasonably happy with the handling of precautionary measures so far, we expect that there will be disputes from time-to-time. As a result, we are encouraging members to contact the association where there are disputes with inspectors so that we can contact the director-general and the Minerals Council to find resolutions,” says Pienaar.
He says the industry needs to work together to share ideas and best practices and to build a trust relationship with Government in order to overcome future challenges. Small operations must check what is available in their area, know where the doctors, clinics and hospitals are that can help. Also, to check bigger mines for systems or capacity to assist in responding better if problems do arise.
