492 Mining and Health
Safety at Mine Sites
Mining companies are responsible for making mines operate safely.
Governments, miners, and their unions are responsible for making sure the
companies do that. Unfortunately, many governments do not enforce health,
safety, and environmental regulations. (For information about how laws
protect the human and environmental rights of miners, see Appendix B.)
Workers and communities need the right to protect themselves from
harm, information, and equipment and training to reduce exposure to
harmful materials. Miners and communities often form safety committees
to make sure conditions are as safe as possible. Safety committees can also
prepare for emergencies with plans to transport hurt workers and evacuate
anyone in danger.
Mine operators should provide protective equipment for all workers and
maintain it in good condition. Mine operators should also make sure every
mine operation has first aid supplies, and that all workers have access to
them (see Appendix A). Most importantly, all workers should be trained about
mining dangers, such as chemicals, using explosives, and landslides.
To make sure mining does as little harm as possible to the environment,
communities and their allies should monitor water and air near mine sites for
signs of pollution. People who may be exposed to toxic chemicals, excessive
dust, or other dangers should be tested by health workers on an ongoing
basis, and be given treatment at the first signs of health problems.
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012