Anglo American Platinum (Amplats) is to halt all productions at its mines in South Africa today (November 3rd) to highlight the emphasis it is placing on worker safety.

The world's primary producer of platinum group metals, which accounts for about 40 per cent of newly mined platinum, said the stoppage is to remember the 12 people killed at its operations this year.

While it is concerned about the number of fatalities, the miner is confident that it is on the road to improving the situation.

"I believe zero harm is achievable," said Anglo American chief executive Cynthia Carroll.

Stoppages caused by accidents have resulted in loss of production for the company. Dow Jones reports that the day-long halt today will mean 25,000 troy ounces of platinum are lost.

In addition to the operational halt, the miner is launching a new campaign, called Real Safety Begins with Me, which it hopes will reduce accidents.

"As we pay our respects to our deceased colleagues, today also marks the start of a programme towards making zero harm possible. Each employee is asked to pledge and recognise that Real Safety Begins with each one of us," Amplats chief executive officer Neville Nicolau said, according to South African newspaper the Sunday Tribune.

Sources:

Anglo American To Halt S Africa Platinum Mines For Safety Day (03/11/11)


AngloPlat highlights safety (03/11/11) 

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