Key challenges

Heat stress

Heat stress is a risk for employees working at a number of our operations. Xstrata uses a range of methods to alleviate heat stress among its employees, including:

  • heat management protocols (ventilation standards, dehydration testing, air-conditioned cabins and meeting areas);
  • heat tolerance screening;
  • occupational hygiene measurements; and
  • heat stress awareness training.

With the development of the deeper 3500 copper ore body at Mount Isa in 2006, the Working in Heat Committee has been re-established. This committee comprises management representatives, ventilation engineers, union members, safety representatives and the Mines Inspectorate who meet monthly to review monitoring results, heat-related incident reports and to monitor industry advances in managing ventilation systems and heat exposure risks.

Employees in high risk areas are trained in the identification of heat stress signs and symptoms; risk areas are well demarcated with notices displayed to drink ample water; and 'right to know' programmes and campaigns have been used to inform employees on how to manage heat stress.

Photo: Boshoek Smelter, tapping of furnace

Boshoek Smelter, tapping of furnace