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From the expansive oil sands of Alberta to the vast potash operations in Saskatchewan, mining sites in Canada can pose extreme, often dangerous working environments.
The latest data from the National Work Injury / Disease Statistics Program reports 50 fatalities in the mining industry in 2023, representing 4.7% of all workplace fatalities. According to the Government of Canada, direct employment (420,000) and indirect employment (274,000) in the mining industry account for only 3.5% of the total workforce.
Harsh weather, complex machinery, and changing work conditions demand robust safety protocols. To protect workers, companies must prioritize fall protection and safe access in mining operations, notably, compliant guardrails, work platforms, fall arrest systems, and comprehensive safety training programs.
Fall hazards are not always obvious. Icy surfaces, unstable ground, open edges, unguarded machinery, and corroded structures can lead to unexpected falls or injuries. Before any work begins, conduct detailed risk assessments to uncover these hidden dangers. Incorporating regular inspections helps maintain the integrity of mining fall protection equipment.
Fall protection for mining sites starts with physical barriers. Pipe-fitted guardrails constructed of aluminum or galvanized steel offer strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Featuring a modular, adaptable design, these safety railing systems provide mining fall protection throughout the site:
Buildings used for power generation, processing, water treatment, warehousing, maintenance, labs and testing, accommodations, and administration often house HVAC units, solar panels, or other building services equipment on the rooftops. These systems require regular inspections and maintenance, but accessing rooftops is hazardous, especially in icy or windy conditions.
Freestanding, modular guardrail systems for flat or low-sloped roofs can adapt to virtually any rooftop perimeter layout and will provide regulatory-compliant fall protection. The aluminum or galvanized steel safety railings are easy to install—no welding or drilling needed—and do not penetrate the roof. A self-closing safety gate will provide protection at the openings for access points, such as ladders and roof hatches.
Modular work platforms for mining can meet a wide range of applications to access elevated workstations, equipment, and hard-to-reach areas. Compared to ladders and scaffolds, they are more stable, comfortable, and accommodating for using tools and equipment – a boon to productivity.
They feature anti-slip, self-draining treads for steps and platform decks set in aluminum or galvanized steel frames and reinforced with compliant guardrails. They are easy to install and reconfigure to adapt to evolving worksite needs. Types of safe access platforms include:
Servicing equipment from above is hazardous, especially in confined spaces underground or inside buildings. Specialized fall protection equipment, such as a modular rigid rail track or an overhead horizontal lifeline, will help protect workers during their tasks.
These fall arrest systems offer various mounting options, allow freedom of movement, and stop a fall with a shorter drop. Modular rigid rail is a track-and-trolley system that is easy to install and reconfigure. An overhead horizontal lifeline can support up to two users. Both systems feature durable, corrosion-resistant components.
A safe mining worksite requires more than fall protection equipment. Workers must be trained to use and inspect equipment properly, recognize hazards, and speak up about unsafe conditions. Certified training courses recommended include:
With the number of documented fatalities and other severe injuries, fall protection for mining sites across Canada is essential. Installing guardrails throughout the area, work platforms at critical workstations, and fall arrest systems for overhead access will help reduce accidents and improve worker confidence and productivity. Combined with certified training, companies can create a safer working environment for their employees.
Ensuring mining safety requires proper mining safety equipment. To avoid hazards, the mine manager must set up the workplace to prevent employees from falling, slipping, and tripping on the site.