Issue Based Risk Assessments
As circumstances and needs arise, separate risk assessment studies need to be conducted. These are normally associated with a system for the management of change. Examples of when an issue based or separate risk assessment needs to be carried out are: –
- A new support element/system is introduced into the underground workings.
- The method or system of work has changed, such as the method and cycle of support installation.
- After an accident or ‘near-miss’ has occurred in which deficiencies were identified at the accident enquiry.
- As new knowledge comes to light on a product or mode of operation which could influence the level of risk to employees or the organization.
These risk assessments are either conducted by the supplier of support products prior to its use in the underground situation or as in the case of operational change or accident will be conducted by the relevant mine personnel.
Continuous Risk Assessments
Probably the most important and most powerful form of risk assessment, which should be conducted as an integral part of day-to-day management. A task that is conducted mainly by front-line supervisors to enable the process to be effective. Examples of continuous risk assessments employed on Barberton Mines Ltd are:
- Audits by means of planned task observations or critical task analysis.
- Use of checklists or logbooks prior to conducting work.
- A discussion on general hazard awareness prior to conducting work.
- Monthly and ad hoc planning meetings to address safety concerns and highlight areas that are experiencing high levels of accident severity.
- The use of the IRMS (International Risk Management System) whereby Safety Dept. personnel conduct visits to working places to identify hazards.
Mine Specific Rock Related Continuous Risk Assessments
Probably the most important and most powerful form of risk assessment, which should be conducted as an integral part of day-to-day management. A task that is conducted mainly by front-line supervisors to enable the process to be effective. Examples of continuous risk assessments employed on Barberton Mines Ltd are
- Audits by means of planned task observations or critical task analysis.
- Use of checklists or logbooks prior to conducting work.
- A discussion on general hazard awareness prior to conducting work.
- Monthly and ad hoc planning meetings to address safety concerns and highlight areas that are experiencing high levels of accident occurrence.
- The use of the IRMS (International Risk Management System) whereby Safety Dept. personnel conduct visits to working places to identify hazards.
- Mine Specific Rock Related Risk Assessment Process – Barberton Mines Ltd.