Mining in South Africa makes a meaningful contribution to the South African economy. Its effects however, are more visible locally amongst mining communities and in the rural areas of the country. More than ever before the South African industry is deeply conscious of its role in society, its obligations to its host communities and their environment. AMMSA endorses our members’ efforts to work with all stakeholders to understand their concerns, to work towards sustainable solutions, and to generate long-term wealth and well-being among communities.

In line with this, AMMSA co-signed the Mining Sector Occupational Health and Safety Targets and Milestones, and subscribes to the Amended Broad-Based Socio-Economic Empowerment Charter (Mining Charter) for the South African Mining and Minerals Industry.

1. 1. Safety
      Deep-level mines in South Africa present unique challenges in terms of seismicity, heat and ventilation, amongst others. AMMSA endorses the industry’s commitment to reducing injuries in the workplace on the one hand, while it proactively also campaigns for zero fatalities – working towards the elimination of fatalities in the workplace.

 

1. 1. Health
      The key challenges in the industry related to employee health include tuberculosis (TB), silicosis and noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Another major challenge in this area is HIV and AIDS. The Tripartite Forum is also focused on health issues, and the MOSH Task Team has included noise and dust as a key focus area in its Adoption Programme.

 

1. 1. Environment
      AMMSA supports the Mining Charter’s aim of improving the industry’s environmental management and as such focuses on sharing leading practice and arranging technical visits to operations that have excelled in environmental management. This focus area also forms part of the Association’s annual SAMI SHE Conference.

 

1. 1. Communities
      Throughout the year, AMMSA holds various fund-raising initiatives through its District Meetings. These funds are ploughed back into the community. AMMSA is particularly proud of its association with the TEBA Development SCI Project.

 

1. SAMI SHE Conference
   Since its inception in 2009, the South African Mining Industry Safety, Health & Environment Awards Day has established itself as a premier event on the mining industry calendar.The main aim of the SAMI SHE Award Day is to celebrate the achievements of the industry towards Zero Harm in the South African Mining Industry. The day brings together Management, the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR), the Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC), the Minerals Council of South Africa, Unions and health and safety practitioners at all levels of industry to celebrate SHE achievements. During the day delegates can look forward to informative presentations from leaders in the industry, focusing on all issues related to safety, health, and environmental protection.The day is organised by the Association of Mine Managers of South Africa(AMMSA), the Mine Metallurgical Managers Association(MMMA), the South African Colliery Managers Association (SACMA) and The Association of Mine Safety Practitioners of South Africa (AMSPSA),with valuable input from the Department of Mineral Resources, Minerals Council South Africa, The Mine Health and Safety Council, Unions and Industry.Exhibition opportunities are available. Companies wishing to exhibit should contact:Raymond van der BergEmail: raymondvdb@mpas.org.zaTell: (+27) 11 568 2053