Mining and Minerals Today July 2023 | Page 17

Safety

HEALTHY APPROACH

Minimizing risk of injury in one of the world ’ s most dangerous industries By Natalie Henley

Despite the incredible progress that has been made in the last few decades to improve safety standards , mining is still considered one of the most demanding and dangerous work environments in the world . With the third highest fatality rate of any industry , mining organizations still find themselves under immense pressure to provide reassurance to both workers and potential recruits that they have minimized the risk of injury where possible .

Mining locations are inherently dangerous and isolated , which demands investment in robust medical care for personnel . Providing comprehensive onsite medical care in complex locations ensures employees benefit from a higher level of care , reducing the risk of injury and minimizing potential downtime . For an organization , this can bring enhanced savings and increased operational efficiency .
Each project presents its own unique set of obstacles and threats , and requires a tailored approach based on specific circumstances . The most effective medical solution for each mining operation depends on various factors , including the quality of the roads , local medical regulations , and the type of work performed - as often , local emergency services are unable to reach injured employees due to the hazardous
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