Mpumelelo Ncube

Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC)

Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC) oversees research in OHS based on the sector performance as well as current and future needs. Against the commitments made by the tripartite leadership in 2011 OHS Tripartite Summit commitments the MHSC has focussed the resources to: the implementation of a culture transformation framework; the long term implementation of TB and HIV/AIDS programmes, as well as to significantly improve the quality of living conditions and working environment of mine workers and also the communities affected by mining activities. The MHSC continues to provide advice to the Minister via the submissions of advisory notes on Occupational Health and Safety issues. The MHSC has nine thrust areas ranging from: Rock Engineering, Rockbursts, Human Behaviour, Machinery& Transportation, Fires & Explosion, Physical Hazards, Airborne Pollutants, Noise and Special Projects. The adoption of appropriate best practice and necessary technologies is critical for the future of the sector. In this regard the Mine Health and Safety Council will continue to focus on the promotion of best practice, research and technology transfer.