Improving worker safety through corrective action plans in Rwanda’s 3T mining sector

Introduction

The CAP process is one of the most impactful ways that the SLR Better Mining program can create a positive impact for artisanal miners. As well as assigning corrective actions to all incidents that are recorded, we collaborate with local stakeholders to address the underlying causes of the incidents.

Challenges

For a 3T mining operator in Rwanda, facing worker safety issues, our CAPs not only reinforced safety awareness and employee vigilance – they also inspired the mining operator to implement preventive measures through close dialogue and collaboration with workers. During 2023, the mining operator faced various issues around worker safety and structural integrity. As a result, workers suffered from injuries, caused by falling stones in tunnels, ground collapsing and incorrect use of equipment during mineral processing. We observed and recorded poor infrastructure, inadequate use of appropriate PPE, and the lack of health and safety guidelines.

Impact

By the end of 2023, the mining operator was upgrading all safety equipment and infrastructure to meet stringent standards. Further actions that significantly improved workplace safety included provision of new PPE, enforcing PPE usage, providing improved structural reinforcements in the tunnels and installing new lights for better visibility. The mining operator has also installed suggestion boxes at all sites and at its head office to gather ideas on further improving OHS. Their commitment to implementing safety protocols and adhering to regulations has improved the mine’s activities, promoting a safer and more sustainable mining environment.

Solution

We assigned corrective actions to create clear protocols for investigating the cause of incidents and outlining mitigation strategies. We also held regular safety induction sessions for workers, and provided incident case studies to reinforce safety awareness, promote employee vigilance and reduce incidents. After implementing the corrective actions, the mining operator was able to identify and address the underlying causes of incidents and put corrective and preventive measures in place. This was demonstrated when a mining wagon filled with tailings lost control and injured a worker. Immediate action was taken to prevent similar incidents. The mine operator installed rails at the site within a week. The General Manager implemented daily safety meetings with the subcontractors, safety teams, and tramming teams. The Health and Safety officer trained all tunnel captains in occupational health and safety and doubled the frequency of regular training. Finally, clear signage was installed by every tunnel enforcing rules around operating the wagons. To further improve OHS when incidents do happen, the mining operator partnered with hospitals to ensure injured workers receive immediate and high-quality medical care.