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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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SULLIVAN MINE CODE AMENDMENTS ENSURE MINE WORKER
SAFETY |
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VICTORIA – Investigations by the chief inspector of mines, as well as inquest recommendations following the tragic accident at the Sullivan Mine in Kimberley, have resulted in revisions to the Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in British Columbia, said Kevin Krueger, Minister of State for Mining.
“The accident at Sullivan Mine forever changed the way we operate mines and mine reclamation sites in the province,” said Krueger. “The code amendments set new standards to further ensure the protection of workers and the public.”
In the fall of 2007, a code review committee, chaired by the chief inspector of mines, was formed to review the recommendations of the Sullivan inquest jury and to provide recommendations for changes to the code.
“The regulatory changes represent a giant
step forward in how we protect British Columbians and manage our natural
resources,” said Douglas Sweeney, chief inspector of mines for B.C.
“Working collaboratively with industry and the unions, we remain committed to
ensuring that mining remains one of the safest heavy industries in the province.”
All of the inquest recommendations
have been addressed and most have been incorporated in the revised Health,
Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in British Columbia. The amendments
include adopting new reporting requirements for mine managers in the
event of an accident or dangerous occurrence and creating
consistency with WorkSafeBC standards.
The code is the primary vehicle for regulation of the Province’s mining industry from exploration through to mine development, closure and reclamation. The code sets standards and requirements to ensure the protection of workers and the public in activities at mines, as well as standards for the protection of the environment.
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Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources 250 952-0628 250 213-6934 (cell) |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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