In its unwavering commitment to achieving a zero-harm workplace, the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange-listed diversified mining company, RioZim, reported a significant 25% decrease in lost time injuries (LTI) during the financial year 2022 compared to the previous year. The company’s dedication to safety is evident in its efforts to continually enhance protocols and preventative measures.
During this period, RioZim recorded nine LTIs, marking a notable improvement from the 12 incidents reported in the prior year. However, the company did experience two unfortunate fatalities. The first fatality occurred at Cam and Motor Mine in Kadoma, where an employee, involved in a road traffic accident while on duty, sustained injuries that tragically led to their passing. The second incident transpired at Dalny Open Pit when an employee slipped and drowned while working on a dewatering pump.RioZim is actively implementing various safety initiatives, including pre-task risk assessments, health, safety, and environment (HSE) interactions, regular inspections, comprehensive training programs, and the continuous review of safe work procedures. These efforts aim to foster a secure workplace environment, aligning with the company’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.
In a notable highlight from its 2022 financial report, the Renco Mine Rescue Team participated in the South Zone Chamber of Mines Mandatory Training Exercise at Mimosa Mine and the Chamber of Mines National Mine Rescue Competitions at Jena Mines during the review period.
The broader context of safety within Zimbabwe’s mining industry was addressed in the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe’s recent state of the mining industry survey report.
Presented during the 26th edition of the mining, engineering, and transport expo (MineEntra) in Bulawayo by lead researcher Professor Albert Makochekanwa, the report highlighted the challenges faced by the industry.
Large-scale mines, including RioZim, recorded 20 fatalities from 20 accidents, constituting 18% of the total fatalities. Of these incidents, 16 occurred underground, and four on the surface. Small to medium-scale mines reported 60% of the fatalities (72) from 66 accidents, with 62 incidents occurring underground and four on the surface. Illegal operations contributed to 28 fatalities from 24 accidents, with the majority (23) transpiring underground and one on the surface.
The report emphasized that 92% of accidents (101) were recorded underground, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance and improvement in safety measures within the mining industry.
RioZim remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards, recognizing the ongoing challenges faced by the industry and actively contributing to initiatives that promote a secure working environment for all its employees.
