The national safety audits have inspected over 50 mines since it began its work in December, according to Department of Minerals and Energy's (DME) Chief Inspector of Mines, Thabo Gazi.

Mr Gazi told Mining Weekly Online that the mines have been inspected under the legal component and a safety review would now start in May.

He said that mines should expect to receive some feedback within two or three days after his department had compiled the reports.

Speaking at a safety-in-mining conference in Johannesburg, Edward Nathan Sonnenbergs Attorney, Adam Gunn, explained the legal audit would involve mine design, maintenance, legal appointments and health and safety policy.

Explosives control and water management were also investigated by the legal stage audit.

The technical audit will concentrate on analysis of the shafts and the infrastructure of the mines as well as rockfalls and rockbursts and rail bound and trackless motor equipment.

Thabo Mbeki, the president, initiated the audit of the mines following growing numbers of casualties in South African mines, particularly platinum and gold mines which operate at deep levels.

Source:

Mine safety audits progressing - DME, 30/01/08 11:30
http://www.miningweekly.co.za/article.php?a_id=125666

Ÿ Adfero Ltd