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Representing Zambia's artisanal and small-scale minersLusaka, Zambia

Safety Toolkit

Practical tools and checklists to help small-scale miners prevent accidents, protect workers and build a strong safety culture.

Safety Starts Before Work Begins

A safe mine is planned, inspected and managed every day.

Daily Safety Checklist

  • Check PPE before work
  • Inspect tools and equipment
  • Identify site hazards
  • Confirm safe access routes
  • Brief workers before starting

PPE Toolkit

  • Safety helmet
  • Safety boots
  • Reflective clothing
  • Gloves
  • Eye and dust protection

Hazard Awareness

  • Unstable ground
  • Open pits and shafts
  • Moving machinery
  • Dust and noise exposure
  • Unsafe electrical connections

Equipment Safety

  • Use trained operators
  • Inspect machines daily
  • Keep people away from moving parts
  • Report faults immediately
  • Switch off before maintenance

Health Protection

  • Control dust exposure
  • Provide drinking water
  • Manage fatigue
  • Use hearing protection
  • Keep first aid available

Incident Reporting

  • Report all accidents
  • Record near misses
  • Investigate causes
  • Correct unsafe conditions
  • Share lessons learned

Pre-Shift Safety Checklist

Use this before daily mining activities begin.

✓ Workers have correct PPE
✓ Equipment has been inspected
✓ Site hazards have been identified
✓ Emergency contacts are available
✓ First aid kit is accessible
✓ Unsafe areas are marked
✓ Workers understand the day's task
✓ Supervisor has approved start of work

Emergency Preparedness

Every mine site should have a simple emergency plan understood by all workers.

  • Keep emergency contact numbers visible.
  • Identify safe assembly points.
  • Train workers on what to do during an accident.
  • Keep first aid supplies available and accessible.
  • Report serious incidents to the appropriate authorities.

Build a Safer Mining Operation

SSMAZ supports members with safety awareness, training opportunities and practical guidance for safer small-scale mining.

Become a Member