Regulatory Requirements
Employee exposure to hazardous dust in the South African mining industry has led to the implementation of strict regulatory controls. Key legislation includes the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA), Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA), Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (ODMWA) and Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA). These laws enforce exposure limits, require medical surveillance and provide compensation for occupational diseases such as silicosis and coal workers’ pneumoconiosis.
Tripartite initiatives involving government, labour and industry, such as the Occupational Health and Safety Milestones, aim to eliminate silicosis and reduce dust-related illnesses. Legal reforms and major settlements have further highlighted dust management as both a compliance priority and a critical component of the industry’s Zero Harm strategy.
Key Acts Regulating Dust Exposure
- MHSA (1996): Ensures safe and healthy working environments and empowers employees to refuse unsafe work.
- OHSA (1993): Ensures safe and healthy surface working environments.
- ODMWA (1973): Provides medical surveillance and compensation for dust-related diseases.
- COIDA (1993): Covers compensation for non-mineworkers affected by occupational dust.