Toronto-based mining giant First Quantum Minerals has temporarily suspended operations at its Kansanshi copper mine in Zambia following a fatal accident on Sunday. The incident involved a tracked dozer and a light vehicle, resulting in the death of one employee.
An internal investigation has been launched, and operations in the affected area will only resume once safety conditions are met.
This tragic event is not an isolated incident for First Quantum’s Zambia operations. Last November, two contractors lost their lives in separate accidents, highlighting persistent safety concerns.
The Kansanshi mine is a critical revenue source for First Quantum, producing 134,827 tonnes of copper and 68,970 ounces of gold last year. The mine’s significance has grown since the company’s Cobre Panama mine was shut down in December.
First Quantum’s shares dipped 0.6% on the Toronto Stock Exchange following the news.
What Could Have Been Done: Essential Safety Measures to Prevent Future Accidents
Safety experts have emphasized that several precautionary measures could have prevented this tragic accident, ensuring safer operations across First Quantum’s mining sites:
- Segregation of Vehicles: Implementing clear separation zones between heavy equipment like dozers and lighter vehicles would drastically reduce the risk of collisions. Dedicated traffic routes for different types of machinery and vehicles could create safer operational environments.
- Proximity Detection and Collision Avoidance Systems: Installing advanced proximity detection systems on both heavy and light vehicles can alert drivers to potential hazards before a collision occurs. These systems provide real-time feedback and prevent accidents by automatically slowing down or stopping vehicles when they are too close to one another.
- Comprehensive Driver Training: All drivers and operators should undergo rigorous training that includes the handling of heavy machinery and understanding site-specific risks. Continuous refresher courses would help reinforce these safety practices.
- Regular Risk Assessments: Conducting frequent and thorough risk assessments ensures that any potential safety hazards are identified and addressed before they lead to accidents. This would also involve reviewing existing protocols to adapt to changing conditions in the work environment.
By integrating these preventive measures, mining operations like Kansanshi can better protect their workers and reduce the likelihood of future fatalities. Addressing safety shortcomings must become a top priority to prevent further loss of life and ensure safer workplaces for all employees.
