Zimplats records three lost-time injuries (including one fatality)
Despite making strides in achieving zero harm during the previous quarter, Zimbabwe’s biggest platinum group metal (PGM) producer ZIMPLATS, recorded three lost time injuries (including a fatality) during the quarter that ended 31 December 2022.
Rudairo Mapuranga
Zimplats is subscribed to zero harm and has been working to ensure that its workers’ safety is the number one priority. The company recorded over 5 million fatality-free shifts previously and was considered exemplary in Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) issues.
The group during the previous quarter ended 30 September 2022 recorded no lost time injury, however, it recorded three during the period ending 31 December 2022.
According to Zimplats, the group remains committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all its employees and contractors.
“Zimplats reports a disheartening retracement in safety in the period under review, versus the lost time injury-free prior quarter
On 20 December 2022, Lydia Gore and three other employees were exposing lifters at Bimha Mine in the presence of their Team Leader.
“A wedge measuring 0.6m x 0.4m x 0.35m and weighing approximately 80kg dislodged from the face striking Ms Goreon the leg. She fell, sustaining fractures to her leg and forearm. Regrettably, while admitted in the hospital, Ms Gore’s medical condition deteriorated, and she succumbed to injury-induced complications in Harare on 25 December 2022. Our hearts and prayers are with Ms Gore’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
“Two further lost-time injuries were recorded during the quarter. Zimplats board and management remain committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all employees and contractors. To this end, all three accidents were fully investigated, and remedial action plans were developed and are being implemented.
“Aligned to its values of respect and care, Zimplats carried out a survey on gender-based violence both within and outside the workplace. While the results of the survey are well within global trends, there were opportunities for improvement that were identified. The company shall be pursuing these as part of ongoing efforts to ensure a workplace culture that embraces diversity and all aspects of safety, including psychological safety for all employees,” Zimplats said.