Our safety performance

In 2004 we achieved major reductions in our injury rates across the Group with our total recordable injury frequency rate (TRIFR) reducing by 30% and our lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) reducing by 33%. In particular, the safety performance of the coal, copper and zinc operations in Queensland acquired from MIM in 2003 showed a dramatic improvement. This was the result of the safety programmes put in place as part of the integration and subsequent transformation programmes to improve productivity and efficiency at these operations. Xstrata's business model of devolving responsibility and authority to the sites and of taking safety officers out of corporate offices and basing them at the operations has also been a key factor in the improvement of these businesses. The safety performance of each of our businesses is outlined in the table and graphs below.

Xstrata Coal Queensland's safety improvements have been secured via a change in management practices as well as significant investment in gas drainage and re-engineering of longwall equipment. Also, Cook Colliery has been nominated for the 2005 most improved safety management in Queensland central west region award for its improved safety management.

Some operations brought under Xstrata Alloy's management during 2004 required intensive efforts to improve their safety performance to Xstrata's standards. These businesses have impacted on Xstrata Alloys' overall safety performance in 2004. Specific improvement programmes are in place to address these issues.