Ergonomics as a practice for safe and healthy mining in South African mines

Abstract

Reducing occupational injuries and ill health is a strategic objective of all the stakeholders in the South African mining industry. In order to achieve this objective, it is necessary to provide the safest and healthiest work environment possible for all mine workers, men as well as women. It is generally accepted that the application of sound ergonomics principles in the design of mining tasks and the human-machine interface will minimize design-induced human error, and will also eliminate significant occupational health and safety risks. In short, the application of ergonomics has the potential to promote the maintenance of health, efficiency and well-being among mine workers.