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MHSA

Mine Health and Safety Act

Act 29 of 1996 governs health and safety in all South African mining operations, from exploration to closure.

Authority
Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)
Applicability
All mining operations (surface and underground)
Penalties
Fines up to R3 million and/or imprisonment up to 5 years
Last Updated
2024

Key Requirements

1

Mandatory Code of Practice (Section 9)

Develop and implement a comprehensive Code of Practice addressing all hazards and risks at the mine.

2

Health and Safety Policy

Establish written policy stating mine's commitment to health and safety with clear responsibilities.

3

Tripartite Health and Safety Committees

Establish committees with representation from management, employees, and health and safety representatives.

4

Health and Safety Representatives

Appoint full-time health and safety representatives based on mine size and risk profile.

5

Risk Assessment and Management

Conduct continuous risk assessments and implement controls according to hierarchy of controls.

6

Medical Surveillance

Implement medical surveillance programs for employees exposed to health hazards.

Reporting Requirements

Report TypeDeadlineForm/Document
Fatal AccidentsImmediately + DMR 7 within 7 daysDMR 7
Serious InjuriesWithin 7 daysDMR 7
Dangerous OccurrencesWithin 7 daysDMR 7
Reportable AccidentsWithin 30 daysDMR 8
Annual Safety StatsBy February 28 annuallyDMR 9
Occupational DiseasesWithin 14 days of diagnosisDMR 10

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