Barring

Barring is a critical daily safety practice in South African mines, forming the first line of defence against fall-of-ground accidents. Conducted alongside gas detection, it ensures the stability of hanging walls, roofs and sidewalls before and after tasks such as blasting and support installation.

Research shows that many barring accidents stem from deviations from safety standards, inadequate training and insufficient leadership presence underground. Risky habits and unsafe behaviours also contribute significantly.

Improvement focus areas

Stronger leadership visibility underground
Behaviour-based safety training
Culture change initiatives
Innovative training tools such as virtual reality
Leading practices in risk assessment, skills development, leadership, human behaviour and communication

By adopting these practices, mines can create safer environments, reduce accidents and promote a culture of safety across the industry.

Intergrating the barring research outcome into mine standards practices