Labour unions have called for stricter safety protocols, real-time monitoring, and improved training to prevent further mining fatalities, following the deaths of five workers at Harmony Gold’s mines in South Africa.
Despite a 24% reduction in mining-related fatalities from the previous year, unions argue that more must be done to achieve zero harm. The latest incidents, which occurred on Tuesday at Harmony Gold’s Doornkop Mine in Soweto and Joel Mine in the Free State, have reignited concerns over worker safety.
National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) general secretary Jim Irvin described the incidents as a tragedy, noting that they occurred almost simultaneously at two different mines.
While acknowledging Harmony Gold’s strong health and safety initiatives, he insisted that a thorough investigation was necessary to determine the causes of the incidents.
Numsa has secured a long-term wage agreement with Harmony Gold, which Irvin said should provide the company with the stability needed to focus on improving health and safety measures.
Another labour union, Solidarity, also expressed concern, with its occupational health and safety head, Johan Boning, stating that the 42 mining deaths reported in 2024 remained unacceptable.
He acknowledged that Harmony Gold encourages workers to report potential hazards, but stressed that the industry must enforce stricter compliance with explosive handling and safety protocols.
Harmony Gold CEO Beyers Nel reaffirmed the company’s commitment to preventing safety incidents through proactive risk management and fostering a safety-driven culture.
Despite the tragic incidents, Harmony Gold’s stock remained resilient, rising 0.52% to R222.93 in afternoon trade, buoyed by strong gold prices amid geopolitical uncertainties.
