s p r i n g 2 0 1 4
43
such as monitoring speed and a system
of journey management to track crews
in the field. "If something happens or
someone gets stuck in the snow, we know
where they are or can find them with
GPS," McElroy says.
McElroy adds that safety programs
go beyond addressing specific risks and
hazards. "We're trying to build a safety
culture and want people to understand
why we place such emphasis on safety.
It's based on the concept of building an
interdependent team where we all look
out for each other."
BHP Billiton draws most of its person-
nel from Alberta and Saskatchewan (most
have oil industry experience) and tries to
keep teams consistent from year to year.
Crews joining for the first time attend
startup meetings to reinforce the safety
culture. These policies help teams apply
lessons learned from previous programs
to the following year, in the spirit of hav-
ing a safe day, every day and every year.
BHP Billiton expects to continue
exploration while it advances the Jansen
project. The company has committed
close to US$3.8 billion for Jansen, with
two mining shafts expected to be com-
pleted in 2016, followed by surface infra-
structure in 2017.
■
Always wear safety glasses when hammering rock!
Safety guidelineS
The fifth edition of AME BC's popular
Safety Guidelines for Mineral Exploration in
Western Canada was released at Mineral
Exploration Roundup 2014. The new, full-
colour, water-resistant edition includes
chapters on emergency response; per-
sonal protective and other equipment;
health, allergies and first aid; camp
life; transportation; traversing; survival;
wildlife; and drilling and underground
workings. The guidelines were previ-
ously updated in 2005; there have now
been significant updates to the wildlife
safety, traversing and drilling sections
in particular.
Copies are available from the
AME BC
office; as with previous editions,
AME BC
members are entitled to one free copy,
with additional copies being $14.95 plus
GST and shipping. Orders can be directed
to Helena Tse at 604.689.5271 ext. 239 or
info@amebc.ca. The guidelines are also
available online at amebc.ca.
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