Platinum firm Anglo American, the South African Government and Labour Demand have a goal of zero injuries and fatalities in the countries mines.

A conference held on Tuesday committed the Department of Minerals and Energy, the National Union of Mineworkers and Anglo American to a joint goal of zero injuries and fatalities.

Thabo Gazi, Chief Inspector of Mines at the Department of Minerals and Energy, said: "As a collective, we must work towards the attainment of zero injuries and fatalities."

"I want to stress my own commitment as head of Anglo American to helping drive the change in safety," said Chief Executive Officer of Anglo American, Cynthia Carroll.

The firm indicated that it would shut down mines over any safety concerns, iAfrica.com reports.

Ms Carroll also noted a distinct improvement in its safety record in 2008.

She said the number of fatalities had almost been halved compared with the same period last year.

"We need to be united in creating a culture of care, respect, trust and responsibility," she added.

Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica said that a new course of safety measured needed to be introduced with better skills training a possibility.

Source:

No more mining deaths, 30/04/08
http://business.iafrica.com/features/770215.htm

South Africa: Carroll Hails Improvement in Safety Record, 30/04/08
http://allafrica.com/stories/200804300638.html