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Ontario Government Takes Action to Improve Safety for Mining Workers

The safety of mining workers in Ontario has been a growing concern for many years. The government has recently taken action to address this issue by implementing new rules that will improve ventilation requirements underground and lower exposure to harmful diesel exhaust to the most protective levels in North America, and the rules also will allow for the use of track-mounted robots in the mines..”These specialized machines with a high-definition camera will be controlled by an operator to identify loose rocks, misfired explosives and other safety hazards while keeping workers out of danger.”

The changes come in response to calls from mining unions asking for diesel particulate exposure to be reduced for underground workers, from recommendations from the Mining Health, Safety and Prevention Review and 2022 coroner’s inquests.

“As our government helps companies build more mines, we need to attract the best and brightest to work in this exciting sector. These changes send the message that you can find safe, rewarding careers in Ontario’s mining industry.”

“Effective Sept. 1, the new exposure limit will be a time-weighted average exposure to elemental carbon of not more than 0.12 milligrams per cubic metre of air, instead of 0.4 milligrams per cubic metre of air based on total carbon,” the news release said.

“We also recognize that while the occupational exposure limit for diesel particulate in Ontario is being significantly lowered today, it is not down to the level that Steelworkers have been calling for, at 20 µg/m3;. It is our hope and expectation that the province will get there in the very near future.”

The new level is still six times higher than what Steelworkers have been asking for, as 0.12 milligrams equals 120 micrograms.

“Thank you to Minister McNaughton for his commitment to continuing this progress, and thanks to the USW and CROSH for championing this change.”

The Ontario government has worked closely with mining companies, labour organizations, and other stakeholders to develop these new rules. The government has also provided funding to support the implementation of these rules, including funding for research and development of new technologies that can improve ventilation and reduce diesel emissions.

The mining industry is a vital part of Ontario’s economy, but it is also a dangerous industry. The government’s new rules will help to ensure that mining workers are protected from the risks associated with working underground. By improving ventilation and reducing exposure to diesel exhaust, the government is taking a proactive approach to improving the safety of mining workers in Ontario.

In conclusion, the Ontario government’s action to improve safety for mining workers is a positive step forward for the industry. The new rules will help to protect workers from the risks associated with working underground and will ensure that the mining industry continues to thrive in Ontario. It is important for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that these rules are implemented effectively and that the safety of mining workers remains a top priority.

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