Safe Mining in Pits and Quarries

• Issued: June 2011
• Content last reviewed: June 2011
• PDF Version [ 386 Kb / 2 pages | Download Adobe Reader ]
• See also: Mining

Disclaimer: This resource has been prepared to help the workplace parties understand some of their obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and regulations. It is not legal advice. It is not intended to replace the OHSA or the regulations. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE SEE FULL DISCLAIMER

The Ministry of Labour is increasing enforcement and promoting awareness of essential safety measures to improve the safety of workers at pits and quarries, particularly during the crushing, screening and conveying of rock and ore.

The biggest hazards at pits and quarries involve equipment such as belt conveyors, rock crushers and vibrating screens.

Eight workers have been killed and 60 workers seriously injured between January 2000 and mid 2011 while working in pits and quarries. Two of the fatal incidents involved rock crushing and conveying.

Inspector focus

Ministry of Labour inspectors may take enforcement action if they find violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations.

Guarding

Inspectors will check for the presence, adequacy, and use of guarding devices to protect workers from rotating parts or other equipment. Guarding must conform to the Regulations for Mines and Mining Plants (Regulation 854).

Written lockout procedures

Inspectors will check if crushing, screening and conveying equipment is being properly maintained and whether there are written lockout procedures.

Dust control

Inspectors will check if measures to control dust from crushing, screening, stacking, conveying and transporting activities are adequate. Hygienists may accompany inspectors as required.

Hearing protection

Inspectors will check if hearing protection devices (HPDs) are available and used at worksites.

Compliance information

• Ontario Ministry of Labour
• Surface Diamond Drilling and Exploration Emergency Preparedness Guideline: call our toll-free line to request this information
• Guide to the Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Health & Safety Ontario
• View CSA standards referenced in occupational health and safety legislation
• Regulations for Mines and Mining Plants

Call toll-free

Call 1-877-202-0008 anytime to report workplace health and safety incidents or for general inquiries about health and safety at the workplace.