Department of Mines (DOM) Engagement on Mines, Quarries, Works $ Machinery Act (MQWMA) Regulation 12: Inspection by Officials & Competent Persons

On the 11th of July 2024, the Department of Mines (DOM) engaged with Morupule Coal Mine (MCM) legal appointees as part of the Mines, Quarries, Works & Machinery Act (MQWMA) Regulation 12 campaign. This engagement was a critical component of a national initiative aimed at sensitising employees on the requirements of Regulation 12: Inspection by Officials & Competent Persons. The engagement focused on addressing gaps identified within the industry.

The inspectors emphasised the importance of all managers appointed under Regulation 9 and competent persons appointed under the regulation adhering to the following key points:

Inspection by Officials and Competent Persons

(1) Each part of a mine, quarry, or works, along with all the machinery used in or about these sites, must be inspected by the manager or by some person appointed under these Regulations to assist the manager in their supervision.

(2) A person inspecting for the purposes outlined in sub regulation (1) must certify in a logbook kept for this purpose that the inspection has been made. This entry should specify the findings, including the precautions, repairs, or alterations required to ensure greater safety in the working of the mine, quarry, or works.

(3) If such an entry as referred to in sub regulation (2) is made by someone other than the manager, the manager or any person appointed under Regulation 9 must peruse and countersign it within seven days of the entry being made.

The inspectors informed the team that adhering to these regulations is crucial for ensuring that the Manager (6.1) can make informed decisions regarding the safety and operational efficiency of the mine. This initiative is part of DOM's ongoing efforts to enhance safety standards and compliance across the mining industry.