Amendments to the Mine Health and Safety Regulations
On 28 March 2025, the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources published several amendments to the Mine Health and Safety Regulations (GNR 93/1997) (“the Regulations”). These amendments introduce critical changes aimed at improving safety, occupational health and emergency preparedness in the mining sector.
Changes to the Regulations
1. New Provisions for Shafts and Winders in Underground Mines
Chapter 8 of the Regulations has been amended to provide for safety measures relating to shafts and winders, which repeals Chapter 16 of the Regulations under the Minerals Act (GNR 992/1970). It follows that mining operations must henceforth ensure compliance with the updated safety provisions for underground transport systems.
2. Updated Occupational Exposure Limits for Airborne Pollutants
Chapter 22 of the Regulations has been amended to update the table specifying Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) for airborne pollutants. This change ensures that exposure limits align with the latest occupational health standards, to further mitigate risks associated with hazardous airborne substances in mining environments.
3. Comprehensive Overhaul of Rescue, First Aid, and Emergency Preparedness Regulations
Chapter 16, which governs emergency response and preparedness, has been completely revised. The new provisions introduce, amongst other things:
Mandatory reporting of incidents that could lead to emergencies.
Enhanced requirements for emergency medical care in mines.
Issuing and deployment of self-contained self-rescuers for underground and certain surface mining operations.
Strengthened regulations for mine rescue teams refuge bays, and implementation of a missing person locator systems.
What this means for mining operations
These amendments impose additional compliance obligations on mining companies. Employers must ensure that their operations align with the updated safety and occupational health standards to avoid potential penalties and, more importantly, to safeguard their workforce.
The timelines are tight, and compliance is critical. If your business is affected, now is the time to act. Get in touch with our team for expert guidance on aligning your operations with the new regulations.