Miners showcase safety skills

By PISAI GUMAR
PAPUA NEW GUINEA aspires to be one of the countries that practise a high standard of health and safety in mining in terms of loss time and fatal injuries.
The Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) is planning to review the Mining Safety Act 1977.
To pave way for this, MRA initiated the first ever national mining emergency response challenge for seven mining companies.
It was hosted by the Morobe Mining Joint Venture (MMJV) and other industry partners in Lae over the weekend.
At the event launching at Lae International Hotel last Friday, first secretary for mines Sam Talepakali, who spoke on behalf of minister John Pundari, said having the required knowledge and skills would ensure best health and safety practices were maintained during emergencies.
Emergency and res­ponse units from seven operating mining companies came together to share and learn from each other the technical aspects to enhance their ability to respond when emergencies and disasters occurred.
“It is understood that the mining sector has played a vital part in the economic and social well-being of people over the years contributing over 60% of the total annual export reve­nue,” Talepakali said.
He said after the Bougainville copper mine after independence the number of mining companies had increased.
Meanwhile, new explorations were progressing at different sites at various stages.
Between these mines, there are significant variations in minerals and mineralisation, mining technology and methods based on geographical locations.
He added that the number of people and communities impacted also in­creased significantly providing employment opportunities to thousands of people.
Talepakali said, with de­termination, it was hoped the mining industry continued to maintain and exceed these safety standards, taking into consideration the Mining Act and mining safety review to
strengthen the progress so far.
Participants at the meet that showcased workplace health and safety skills and procedures included Barrick, Ok Tedi, Lihir, Porgera Joint Venture, MMJV, Simberi, Tolukuma and Niuminco.