What's Happening?
Menar, a diversified mining group, is enhancing its Women in Mining (WiM) structures across its operations to improve safety and inclusion. The initiative, led by group health and safety manager Ricardo
van Rooi, integrates gender-specific design, leadership accountability, and workplace culture into mine safety performance. Active WiM committees at Khanye Colliery and Kangra are central to this approach, addressing challenges such as PPE design, transport safety, and harassment prevention. Outcomes from these meetings are escalated to senior management to ensure gender-related safety improvements are prioritized. Recent measures include implementing guidelines for mandatory codes of practice impacting WiM, targeting gender-based violence, PPE, and safety at operations.
Why It's Important?
The integration of WiM structures into Menar's safety management systems is significant as it drives measurable change in the mining industry, traditionally male-dominated. By focusing on gender-specific safety concerns, Menar is setting a precedent for other mining companies to follow, potentially leading to broader industry-wide improvements in safety and inclusion. This initiative not only enhances operational performance but also supports career development and retention of women in mining, contributing to a more diverse and equitable workforce.
What's Next?
Menar plans to continue its efforts in integrating WiM structures into its operations, with a focus on leadership accountability and workplace culture. The company aims to further improve safety metrics and career development opportunities for women, ensuring that safety and inclusion drive long-term operational performance. Menar's experience demonstrates that health and safety innovation cannot be separated from diversity and equity, and the company is committed to building an inclusive mining sector for everyone.
Beyond the Headlines
Menar's initiatives highlight the ethical and cultural dimensions of safety and inclusion in the mining industry. By prioritizing gender-specific safety concerns, Menar is addressing long-standing issues of gender inequality and harassment in the workplace. This approach not only improves safety but also fosters a culture of respect and empowerment, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable industry.
