The efficient extraction of minerals is an essential part of business for any mining company, but just as important, is the health and safety of anyone working in the industry. This is true whether they are supervisors, machinery operators, or mining professionals under the ground.
South Africa has one of the largest mining economies in the world. Although only fifth in the world for gold output, South Africa is the largest producer of chrome, manganese, platinum, and vermiculite. When it comes to coal, South Africa boasts the third largest output by volume.
The safety of miners is driven by policy and legislation at a high level, but safety must also be ensured by taking simple steps with the workforce. Appropriate mining equipment and high quality safety equipment are essential to maintaining safe mining environments.
Visibility is key on any site. High visibility gear ensures that workers can be seen at all times, even in low light conditions. This can be achieved with safety gear that is manufactured using high visibility colors, and reflective wear can also increase visibility in certain conditions.
The material used in safety equipment is also essential. Mining equipment, especially when it comes to apparel, needs to be functional as much as it is protective. Traditional safety materials like leather are not always appropriate in a mining environment. Nylon, kevlar, and cordura are all common materials used that are lightweight, offer a level of breath-ability, and provide superior abrasion protection. Padded safety clothing can be used when personnel are susceptible to falling debris, tools, and other mining equipment.
Perhaps the most important piece of safety equipment, is protective headgear. While some personnel in lower risk environments will be suitably protected by a bump cap with a built in suspension system, some may require heavier duty full brim hardhat protection. Protective headgear should be ISO 3873 compliant, with the ANSI/CSA Type II hard hats providing the best protection from vertical and lateral impacts. Some workers in specialized areas of the mining industry may require Class E or G headgear for dielectric protection ranging from 2200, to 20 000 volts.
If you are an employer, it may be your responsibility to provide adequate protective clothing and safety equipment for your workforce. This does not mean however, that individuals should ignore their responsibility to remain safe.
Kevcor is a leading mining, fire, and safety equipment supplier in South Africa. Supplying everything ranging from high visibility gear, to chemical protection, and even generators and heavier machinery, Kevcor is your trusted supplier for any of your safety and mining equipment needs.
