Mine expert Charles Mulila has described recent fatal mine accidents involving contractors at Mopani Copper Mines as worrisome, calling for urgent action to strengthen occupational health and safety compliance.
Speaking to Flava News, Mr. Mulila said there is an urgent need to ensure that all contractors operating at the mine strictly adhere to established occupational health and safety standards. He questioned how two fatal mine accidents could occur within a span of three weeks, noting that the incidents raise serious concerns about the effectiveness of operational monitoring and safety enforcement.
Mr. Mulila further queried whether Mopani’s safety departments are adequately staffed with qualified personnel or whether there are gaps in capacity building and oversight. He also questioned the continued practice of allowing contractors to undertake critical components of mining operations, particularly mineral extraction, which he said requires high levels of technical expertise and rigorous safety supervision.
He has since called for experienced professionals within the mining sector to conduct an independent assessment of the qualifications and competence of personnel employed as health and safety officers, stressing that professionalism and expertise are essential to safeguarding lives in the mining industry.
Mr. Mulila emphasised that without strict compliance and competent oversight, the use of contractors in high-risk mining operations poses a serious threat to worker safety and the sustainability of the sector.
