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The safety and health of employees at Palabora Mining Company is of utmost importance and is a key principle in an efficient and profitable operation. It is therefore that we firmly believe that all injuries, occupational illnesses and incidents are preventable. This is also stated in our Safety and Health Policy.
Occupational diseases are defined as those diseases that are primarily caused by exposure to physical, chemical and psychological agencies in the workplace. Typical diseases include diseases of the lung (asbestosis, silicosis), diseases of the skin (dermatitis), diseases of the musculo-skeletal system (back problems) diseases of the ear (mainly hearing loss), as well as less tangible diseases such as work-related stress conditions.
Potential occupational health risks are monitored continuously by a team of trained Occupational Health Officers. Measurements are regularly taken and include temperature, ventilation, noise, illumination, dust, hazardous substances, gases and radiation. When occupational health risks are encountered they are effectively controlled by application of the risk control hierarchy.
All employees and contractors undergo entrance and exit medical examinations when joining and leaving the company. During their course of employment they are subject to routine medical examinations. Routine examinations are risk based and provide a comprehensive health profile of each employee.
A Code of Practice on Fitness for Work has been developed which recognises different physical requirements for particular roles. These roles include, but are not limited to, working in hot conditions, working with hazardous substances, operating large equipment in confined spaces etc.
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