Mines urged to take first aid training seriously

Vuyisile Mlilo, Sunday News Reporter

MINING institutions have been urged to take safety and first aid seriously and ensure all workers undergo the training as part of efforts to reduce mine mishaps which may lead to fatalities. 

The call comes amid revelations that at least 139 people were killed in different mine accidents last year.

Speaking at the 2023 South Zone Chamber of Mines first aid competitions at How Mine on Friday, the provincial mining director for Matabeleland South, Engineer Khumbulani Mlangeni said first aid knowledge and skills come in handy during emergencies. 

“The event provides an excellent platform for people from various organisations to share and demonstrate their first aid knowledge and skills. First aid is the initial assistance or treatment given to a person, and people should be trained to respond appropriately in an emergency situation,” he said. 

The event was held under the theme: “Know your risk, always be prepared, ACT.” Eng Mlangeni said the competition’s theme this year was befitting in ensuring that in the unfortunate event of an incident, timely and appropriate action was taken. He said with the knowledge and training of first aid, mines would be better equipped to cope with the situations that could arise anytime. 

“With the mining environment, accidents may occur at any work station and as a result, all employees must be better prepared to render the required assistance. I urge those who have not been trained in first aid to sign up for training with the various first aid training bodies around the country.”

Bulawayo Mining Company (BMC) mine manager, Mr Ophir Gwede said as the mining industry they were grateful to the Government which fully appreciated that the safety of mines workforce was a key driver of productivity that feeds directly into the vision of building a US$12 billion mining industry by end of this year.

He said the theme this year served as a reminder to everyone that with the right measures and responsible behaviour, harm in the mining industry could be avoided entirely.

“My gratitude goes out to all the management and staff of the mining houses present at this Chamber of Mines First Aid Day. The efforts that you have made to attend the event emphasise the importance of safety and health in one of the country’s most profitable industries,” added Mr Gwede. 

He said the annual event was a clear indication that safety was a top priority in the mining industry and showcasing the industry’s commitment was critical to motivating everyone who works in the mines to return home safely at the end of each working day. Ten mines from different parts of the country gathered for the event, among them Mimosa, Unki Mine, Zimplats, Blanket Mine, Renco Mine and How Mine.