Mining fatalities in South Africa have reached an unprecedented low, with 41 deaths recorded in 2025, a remarkable 91% decrease from the 484 fatalities in 1994. This achievement is a testament to the mining industry's unwavering commitment to its 'zero harm' objective. However, a concerning trend has emerged with a 25% increase in fall-of-ground fatalities from 12 in 2024 to 15 in 2025, marking a setback in safety improvements. Despite this, the overall safety trend remains on a downward trajectory, with serious injuries decreasing by 12% and a 78% reduction in fall-of-ground deaths over the past two decades. The Minerals Council South Africa is revisiting its fall-of-ground action plan with member companies to understand the reasons for the setback. Health indicators have also shown significant improvements, with a 55% decline in noise-induced hearing loss cases and a 7.6% reduction in occupational diseases reported by mines in 2024. The mining industry's progress is a result of collaborative efforts, including mandatory entry examinations, daily making-safe procedures, and the widespread adoption of netting and bolting of tunnel roofs and walls. However, the industry faces challenges in maintaining these safety standards, particularly in managing the safety of deep and old gold mines. The Minerals Council emphasizes the importance of collaboration with the Mines Inspectorate and organized labor to further progress. Mining CEOs meet monthly to share lessons from incidents, analyze root causes, and agree on corrective actions. Despite the progress, the industry must remain vigilant and continue to prioritize safety to prevent further fatalities and injuries.
