ASM Ventilation Challenges to be Discussed at Mine Ventilation AGM
The upcoming Mine Ventilation Society of Zimbabwe (MVSZ) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Symposium 2024 will address the critical issue of ventilation challenges, particularly in the Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM) sector.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
The event, themed “Ventilation Engineering Solutions for Solid Safety Performance,” will take place from October 31 to November 1, 2024.
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe, MVSZ Chairman Joshua Tigere identified gassing as the greatest ventilation challenge facing Zimbabwe’s mining industry.
He stated that this issue has been particularly problematic for artisanal and small-scale miners, who often lack knowledge about the sources, properties, and effects of dangerous gases encountered during mining. Without a proper understanding of these gases, miners are unable to manage the risks effectively, leaving them vulnerable to fatal incidents.
Tigere emphasized that the lack of knowledge about gases and their occurrence in mining environments poses a serious safety hazard. Many small-scale miners are unaware of the dangers lurking underground, which increases the likelihood of fatal accidents.
“The greatest challenge facing ventilation engineering in Zimbabwe is the loss of life due to gassing in the small-scale mining sector,” he stated.
To address this issue, Tigere announced that the MVSZ, in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development, will conduct workshops across the country aimed at raising awareness among small-scale miners. These workshops will equip miners with the knowledge necessary to identify, manage, and mitigate the risks associated with gas exposure during mining operations. This initiative forms a crucial part of the MVSZ’s broader strategy to improve safety and reduce fatalities in the mining sector.
Additionally, Tigere cited the lack of monitoring equipment in small-scale mines as another major challenge. Many mines are unable to acquire the necessary tools to test for airflow and gas concentrations after blasting. This results in miners re-entering sites without verifying environmental safety, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. The symposium will offer solutions and insights into affordable ventilation monitoring technologies that can help these smaller operations improve safety.
The upcoming MVSZ AGM and Symposium will play a pivotal role in addressing these critical challenges. Through presentations, exhibitions, and interactive discussions, the event will provide a platform for mining professionals to share innovations in ventilation engineering and safety practices that could transform Zimbabwe’s mining industry for the better.