P-287 Occupational Safety and Health in Small Scale Mining: A Case of Informal Artisanal Miners in Mount Darwin, Zimbabwe

Abstract Introduction Artisanal and small scale mining (ASSM) contributes 2.6% to Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Despite the significant contribution to economic growth and development, ASSM workers remain exposed to numerous work related health and safety hazards. The objectives of the study were to identify the hazards and risks in ASSM, review the arrangements for managing health and safety risks, and to assess the effectiveness of the controls in place so as to produce justified, proportionate recommendations to improve health and safety performance. Methods The study used a mixed method approach which included qualitative and quantitative research design with study participants being sampled using the random and purposive sampling methods. Data collection tools used included questionnaires, direct observations and interviews. The collected data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results The occupational health and safety hazards associated with ASSM operations were dominated by physical hazards (50,34%), chemical (20,41%) ergonomic (19,73%), biological hazards (4,76%) and psychosocial hazards (4,76%) with potential to cause illnesses, injuries and death. These hazards were present from ore extraction to amalgamation and gold smelting processes. Lack of training on occupational safety and health was identified as a risk factor, as was established by a Chi-square test of association between training and risk exposure encountered (p=0.000.005). Conclusion Training of workers is also recommended for them to be competent in identifying hazards, assessing risks and opportunities inherent to their operations. This will ensure adaption of controls that guarantees amelioration of the workplace hazards.