Modern Quarrying July-August 2016

INDUSTRY INSIGHT TRANSFORMATION

Finally, industry participants are sub- jected to a broad legal framework with disparate definitions and targets. This framework, as well as uncertainties created by calls for nationalisation, often leads to a lack of trust between key stakeholders. Conclusions and recommendations This research recognises the transformation initiatives undertaken by mining compa- nies, and challenges the assumption that mining companies are reluctant to trans- form. Although the industry has its laggards, the results from this study suggest that mining companies have bought in and are committed to transformation. Nonetheless, the complexity associated with transform- ing the mining industry requires effective collaboration between government and industry. Open dialogue and trust are key requirements for addressing current chal- lenges and creating solutions to benefit not only individual stakeholders but the country as a whole. It is also imperative to address competency development beyond schooling for HDSAs to improve their knowledge, skills and experience, which are vital for the mining industry. However, a balance on demographic transformation

The current research confirmed the find- ings of Limpitlaw et al. (2005), that employ- ment in the mining industry is not always considered a suitable career choice due to adverse working conditions. Participants emphasised that health and safety con- ditions are at times challenging; female employees are often subjected to gender stereotyping, and that the machinery and equipment used underground are still con- ventional and not designed for women. Initiatives undertaken by mining houses are furthermore compromised by employ- ees’ own choices and behaviour. For exam- ple, when mining companies build houses for mineworkers near the mining operations to conform to government requirements, mineworkers often elect not to make use of such schemes and rather use the allowance to obtain their own accommodation. In many instances, alternative accom- modation arrangements do not comply with government specifications and min- ing companies are blamed for poor living conditions. It was also found that some mineworkers have second families and are at times subjected to garnishee orders or experience poor living conditions because they are unable to support two families.

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Despite Minister Shabangu’s accusations that industry participants are not taking responsibility for the implementation of the transformation agenda, government needs to recognise that it also has a role to play and needs to appreciate and assist in the challenges experienced by the industry.

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MODERN QUARRYING July - August 2016