Culture Transformation on OHS to Attain ZERO HARM in the South African Mining Sector

Introduction:   The exploitation of minerals from the ground has been the backbone of the South African economy for many years. At the same time the track record of the South African Mining industry on health and safety has always been in the spotlight of the local and international media. Since 1994, many reforms have been undertaken to improve the health and safety of South African mine employees. Despite this, the attainment of ZERO HARM to all employees  remains a challenge. Increasingly the element of improving the “attitude towards OHS” has come to the fore of stakeholder discussion. Following a survey that showed a negative health and safety culture, the Mine Health and Safety Council, a statutory body, decided to develop a framework for the transformation of the health and safety culture of the South African mining industry.      

Results:  Results showed that the health and safety culture of the industry was negatively impacted by many factors such as but not limited to:  • The prevailing political situation prior to 1994 that was prevalent even in the workplace  • Remuneration and incentive schemes  • A culture of blame.   • Lack of cooperation and trust between management and workers    A framework was developed for transforming the culture of the industry.    

Discussion:  Employees need to be treated fairly and equitably,  with respect and dignity for and towards all. Via the implementation of the Culture Transformation Framework all the stakeholders firmly belief and support that the target of ZERO HARM can be attained.