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Discover the Occupational Safety Document in Uranium Ore Mining: The Secret Behind the World’s Important Energy Source. Learn about safety measures and potential risks in the uranium ore mining process, ensuring this energy source brings benefits without harming health and the environment.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN THE URANIUM ORE MINING INDUSTRY

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some Occupational Accidents in Uranium Ore Mines

Some occupational accidents in uranium ore mines

Accident at Ranger Mine, Australia
- In 2013, a water pump explosion in the Ranger 3 mine in Kakadu, Australia, caused a series of occupational safety issues.
- As a result, one worker was injured, and subsequent investigations indicated that safety procedures were inadequate or not properly followed.
Accident at Cigar Lake Mine, Canada
- In a serious incident in 2006, a large amount of water entered the mine, causing a landslide and threatening the health and safety of the workers.
- This accident led to a significant review and improvement of safety procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Accident at Wismut Mine, Germany
- In the 1950s and 1960s, when East Germany was recognized as a world-leading uranium producer, many accidents occurred.
- Several explosions and exposure to toxic substances caused many losses to workers and the environment.
Incident at Rožná Mine, Czech Republic
- In 1985, a serious explosion occurred at a uranium mine in the Czech Republic, injuring and leaving many workers missing.
- This accident put pressure on the government and industry to improve the occupational safety system and risk management.

Accidents in uranium ore mines not only cause loss of life and property but also pose great challenges in ensuring occupational safety and protecting the environment during the ore mining process.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH IN URANIUM ORE MINING

I. Occupational safety and health for drilling and blasting personnel

1. Job characteristics of drilling and blasting

The work of drilling and blasting is an important part of the uranium ore mining process in a mine environment. Drillers play a major role in preparing the surface for blasting. This work involves using drilling equipment to create drill holes on the ground or in uranium rock, preparing for the placement of drill rods or explosives inside.

After the drill holes have been prepared, the blasters continue the process by using explosives to destroy and separate the uranium rock from the surrounding soil layer. This usually requires care and professional skill to ensure that the blasting is carried out safely and effectively. At the same time, safety measures must be strictly adhered to to ensure the safety of the entire work team and the surrounding environment.

The work of drilling and blasting not only requires professionalism and technique, but also requires meticulousness and patience to perform the steps accurately and safely. This is one of the important jobs for the uranium ore mining process and contributes to ensuring a stable supply of uranium ore for the nuclear industry.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the drilling and blasting process

Explosion or electric discharge
- The use of explosives in a mine environment carries a high risk of explosion or electric discharge.
- If safety procedures are not followed or errors occur during the preparation or execution of the blast, an explosion can occur, causing injury or even death to workers near the blast area.
Landslide or rockslide
- Drilling and blasting can cause landslides or rockslides, especially in areas with unstable soil or rock that is prone to breaking.
- Landslides or rockslides can threaten the safety of workers near the blast area.
Problems with explosive control
- Failure to strictly control the use and transportation of explosives can lead to unwanted accidents.
- Incidents in the storage, transportation, or use of explosives can cause unwanted explosions and injure surrounding workers.
Health risks from exposure to toxic substances
- Workers in the drilling and blasting process may be exposed to toxic substances such as rock dust or explosive vapors.
- Inhaling toxic dust or exposure to explosive vapors can cause health problems such as respiratory problems or skin problems.

3. Causes of occupational accidents during drilling and blasting

There are several main causes of occupational accidents during drilling and blasting in a uranium ore mining environment. One of the main causes is a lack of understanding or non-compliance with safety procedures. Failure to apply safety rules and procedures correctly can lead to serious consequences, including unwanted explosions or landslides.

Second, the working environment is sometimes not properly prepared or controlled. The drilling and blasting area can often face hazardous factors such as high slopes, unstable rock and soil, or an unsafe working environment. Lack of preparation or control of the work area can create a high risk of occupational accidents.

In addition, the use and handling of explosives is also a major cause of occupational accidents. Carelessness in the transportation, storage, or use of explosives can lead to unwanted explosions or safety problems during the blasting process.

4. Preventive measures against occupational accidents during drilling and blasting

Regular occupational safety training
- All workers involved in the drilling and blasting process should be fully trained on safety procedures, protective equipment, and emergency response.
- Regular training helps to update knowledge and skills, as well as to remind workers of potential hazards and preventive measures.
Ensure preparation and control of the work area
- Before starting work, a thorough inspection of the work environment must be carried out, especially in the areas where drilling and blasting are planned.
- Ensure that all materials and equipment used are safe and meet occupational safety standards.
Management of explosives and hazardous materials
- It is necessary to establish clear and safe procedures for the storage, transportation, and use of explosives and other hazardous materials.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling explosives and other hazardous materials.
Risk monitoring and assessment
- Conduct regular inspections and risk assessments to identify and minimize potential hazards in the work process.
- Ensure that all workers comply with safety regulations and implement preventive measures.

5. Occupational safety regulations for drilling and blasting

Thorough preparation must be made before performing the work
- Before starting drilling and blasting activities, the work environment must be thoroughly inspected and prepared.
- Ensure that all equipment and materials used are up to standard and safe.
Use full personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Workers involved in the drilling and blasting process must wear full PPE such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes.
- PPE helps protect workers from potential hazards such as falling materials or unwanted explosions.
Comply with safety procedures when operating equipment
- Drillers and blasters must strictly adhere to safety procedures when operating drilling and blasting equipment.
- Following the correct procedures helps to minimize the risk of accidents and protect everyone around.
Use explosives according to regulations
- Only use approved and safe explosives.
- It is necessary to establish clear and safe procedures for the transportation, storage, and use of explosives.
Perform regular inspection and maintenance
- It is necessary to perform regular inspections and maintenance for equipment and machinery to ensure they operate correctly and safely.
- Regular maintenance helps to minimize the risk of accidents due to machine failure.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when drilling and blasting

Protect the safety of everyone
- As soon as an accident is detected, it is necessary to notify all other workers in the area and instruct them to move out of the danger zone.
- Activate the warning and protection system to prevent unwanted contact with the accident area.
Request rescue and medical assistance
- Immediately contact the rescue and medical team to request immediate assistance.
- In case of injury, it is necessary to provide first aid and on-site care to them.
Isolate and control the accident area
- Take measures to isolate and control the accident area to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.
- Prevent traffic in and out of the accident area to avoid potential hazards and to facilitate rescue operations.
Record and report the incident
- Record all details related to the accident, including the time, location, description of the incident, and a list of those affected.
- Report the incident to the management agencies and conduct an investigation to determine the cause and propose improvement measures.

II. Occupational safety and health for ore transport workers

1. Job characteristics of ore transport

The job of transporting uranium ore is an important part of the supply chain of the nuclear industry. Transport workers are often tasked with transporting ore from mining areas to processing facilities or delivery points. This requires expertise and skill to move the ore safely and effectively.

The characteristics of the ore transport job include the use of lifting machinery or special transport vehicles to move the ore. For uranium ore, ensuring safety during transport is very important due to the special and hazardous nature of this material.

Transport workers need to be thoroughly trained in the use of lifting equipment and special transport vehicles. They also need to have a clear understanding of the safety measures when operating this equipment to ensure their own safety and that of those around them.

In addition, planning and situation management during transport is also an important part of the job. Transport workers need to be able to assess risks and take preventive measures to ensure the transport process is smooth and safe.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the process of ore transportation

Accidents due to transportation incidents
- Accidents can occur due to technical problems or malfunctions of transport vehicles, such as engine failure, brake system, or tires.
- Transportation incidents can lead to collisions, rollovers, or loss of control of the vehicle, endangering transport workers and those around them.
Accidents when using lifting machinery
- The use of lifting machinery to move ore can cause accidents if not performed with proper technique or a lack of understanding of machine operation.
- Accidents can include falling heavy objects from heights, collisions with fixed objects, or other hazards during operation.
Risks from the working environment
- Transport workers often have to work in confined spaces, high or low temperatures, or harsh weather conditions.
- A harsh working environment can create health risks such as slips and falls, the risk of toxic contamination, or work stress.
Accidents due to unsafe procedures
- Failure to follow safe procedures during transportation, such as overloading the vehicle, not using proper protective equipment, or not regularly inspecting and maintaining the vehicles, can lead to unwanted accidents.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when transporting ore

Technical problems of the transport vehicle: Accidents can occur due to technical problems of the transport vehicles, including engine failure, brake system, or tires. This incident can lead to collisions, rollovers, or loss of control of the vehicle.
Non-compliance with safety procedures: Failure to follow safety procedures during transportation, such as overloading the vehicle, not using proper protective equipment, or not regularly inspecting and maintaining the vehicles, can create unwanted accident risks.
Employees not having enough training and skills: Accidents can occur when employees are not fully trained on the operation of transport vehicles or do not have enough skills to handle emergency situations.
Harsh working environment: Transport workers often have to work in confined spaces, high or low temperatures, or harsh weather conditions. A harsh working environment can create health risks such as slips and falls or the risk of toxic contamination.
Time pressure and schedule: Pressure from the transport schedule and production requirements can also contribute to occupational accidents. When production pressure is high, it can lead to the neglect or reduction of safety measures to save time and money.

4. Preventive measures against occupational accidents when transporting ore

Risk assessment and safety planning: Before carrying out any ore transportation activity, a detailed risk assessment must be conducted to identify potential hazards and create an appropriate safety plan.
Training and coaching: All employees involved in the ore transportation process need to be trained on safety measures, work procedures, and the use of personal protective equipment.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Transport vehicles and lifting machinery must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they operate correctly and safely.
Compliance with safety procedures: All safety procedures must be strictly adhered to, including vehicle operating procedures, ore lifting and moving procedures, as well as accident prevention measures.
Monitoring and evaluation: Occupational environmental monitoring and implementation of monitoring measures to ensure that safety measures are being implemented correctly and to ensure the safety of all participating employees.
Feedback and continuous improvement: Implement feedback and continuous improvement measures based on the results of occupational environmental monitoring and practical experience to improve the effectiveness of accident prevention measures.

5. Occupational safety regulations for ore transport

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE): Transport workers should be fully equipped with PPE such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and explosion-proof shoes to protect against potential hazards during transport.
Compliance with safe operating procedures: All employees involved in the ore transport process must strictly adhere to safe operating procedures, including procedures for lifting, securing ore on the transport vehicle, and performing safety checks before departure.
Training and coaching: Transport workers should be fully trained and coached on the use of transport equipment and vehicles, as well as on safety and emergency measures in case of an incident.
Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment: Transport vehicles and lifting machinery must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they operate correctly and safely.
Feedback and incident reporting: Any incident or issue related to occupational safety should be reported and recorded, and feedback measures should be implemented to prevent recurrence and improve the work process.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when transporting ore

Protect the lives and health of employees: The top priority is to ensure the safety of all employees by moving them out of the hazardous area and providing emergency medical care if necessary.
Notify and report the incident: As soon as an accident occurs, immediately notify management and the relevant authorities so they can provide support and investigate the cause of the incident.
Implement rescue and recovery measures: Trained employees should implement rescue and recovery measures such as first aid, moving the victim out of the hazardous area, and providing support to them until the rescue team arrives.
Preserve the accident scene: After ensuring the safety of everyone, it is necessary to preserve the accident scene to retain clues and relevant information to support the investigation later.
Re-evaluate procedures and safety measures: After the accident, a comprehensive evaluation of the work process and safety measures should be conducted to identify the cause and propose improvement measures.

III. Occupational safety and health for ore processing workers

1. Job characteristics of ore processing

Ore grinding: Raw uranium ore is usually ground into a fine powder to create a material that is easy to handle in subsequent processes.
Sorting and washing: After grinding, the ore is sorted to separate the ore particles from various impurities. A washing process can be performed to remove any remaining impurities on the ore surface.
Extraction: Extraction methods are used to separate uranium ore from other impurities and additives. Separating agents are used to absorb and remove uranium from the solution or other mixture.
Auxiliary processing: In addition to the main ore processing, auxiliary tasks such as waste treatment, equipment maintenance, and environmental control are also an important part of the ore processing process.
Compliance with safety and environmental procedures: In every step of the ore processing process, compliance with occupational safety and environmental protection procedures is extremely important to ensure the safety of employees and protect the environment.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the process of ore processing

Chemical accidents: The use of chemicals in the extraction and ore processing process can cause accidents due to direct or unwanted contact with toxic chemicals.
Machinery and equipment accidents: Grinding machines, sorting machines, and ore processing equipment can cause accidents if not used or maintained correctly.

– Workplace environment accidents: Workplace environmental factors such as pressure, temperature, and humidity can create hazardous working conditions and cause accidents for employees.
– Accidents due to foreign objects: During ore processing, accidents can occur due to foreign objects such as rocks falling from conveyor belts or other materials entering the workspace.
– Occupational safety accidents: Failure to comply with occupational safety procedures and use of personal protective equipment can lead to accidents such as impacts, slips, and injuries.

3. Causes of occupational accidents during ore processing

Lack of training and understanding: Employees who are not fully trained on work processes, safety measures, and hazard identification may perform their work unsafely.
Unsafe or faulty equipment: Using equipment improperly, faulty equipment, or equipment that does not meet safety standards can cause occupational accidents.
Hazardous work environment: An unsafe work environment with factors such as high pressure, extreme temperatures, or toxic gases can pose a risk to employees.

– Errors in work procedures: Failure to follow correct work procedures or performing unsafe procedures can lead to accidents.
– Hazardous materials and chemicals: Using hazardous materials and chemicals without following proper procedures and safety measures can cause accidents for employees.

4. Preventive measures against occupational accidents during ore processing

Training and education: Provide comprehensive training on work processes, safety measures, and hazard identification to enhance the understanding and safety awareness of employees.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Perform regular inspection and maintenance of equipment to ensure it operates correctly and safely for employees.

– Compliance with procedures and safety measures: Ensure that all employees follow correct work procedures and use safety measures such as wearing personal protective equipment.
– Waste and chemical management: Handle and store waste and chemicals safely, complying with regulations on the handling and disposal of hazardous waste.
– Control of the working environment: Ensure that the working environment is safe with factors such as pressure, temperature, and humidity.
– Implement monitoring and risk assessment: Implement monitoring and assessment of potential risks to identify and minimize the risk of occupational accidents.

5. Occupational safety regulations for ore processing

Training and guidance: Provide comprehensive training on occupational safety and work procedures for all new and existing employees involved in ore processing processes. Perform tests at occupational safety training centers to obtain a certificate of occupational safety training. From there, workers will have a clear understanding of safety knowledge as well as valid certification for their work.
Use of personal protective equipment: Require all employees to use full personal protective equipment such as protective masks, gloves, poison-resistant clothing, and safety glasses when working with toxic chemicals and hazardous equipment.

– Risk control: Assess and control potential risks, including using preventive measures and risk management.
– Environmental protection: Comply with regulations on handling waste and chemicals safely to protect the environment and the health of employees.
– Equipment maintenance: Perform regular maintenance for equipment and machinery to ensure they operate correctly and safely.
– Safety inspection: Perform regular occupational safety inspections and implement improvement measures when necessary to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when processing ore

Stop work and ensure safety: When an accident is detected, all employees should stop work immediately and protect themselves and their colleagues from any potential hazards.
Report immediately: Workers should immediately report the accident to the manager or occupational safety department for timely handling.

– Medical first aid: If someone is injured, medical first aid should be provided immediately. Employees should provide first aid if possible and call for an ambulance.
– Preserve the scene: It is necessary to preserve the relevant information and artifacts of the accident carefully to serve the investigation and determination of the cause later.
– Participate in the investigation and analysis of the cause: All employees should cooperate closely with the manager and the occupational safety department to investigate the cause of the accident and propose preventive measures to avoid recurrence.

IV. Occupational safety and health for equipment maintenance and repair workers

1. Job characteristics of equipment maintenance and repair

Regular maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks to inspect, clean, and maintain equipment, ensuring it operates stably and minimizing the risk of breakdowns.
Emergency repair: Facing emergency situations when equipment malfunctions, maintenance and repair workers quickly and accurately troubleshoot and ensure the continuity of the work process.
Component replacement: Replace old, damaged components with new ones to improve the efficiency and reliability of the equipment.
Safety inspection: Ensure that the equipment after being maintained or repaired fully meets safety standards and has been thoroughly inspected before being put into operation.
Record and report: Pay attention to recording and reporting the maintenance and repair work performed to create a clear and convenient record for equipment management and tracking.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the process of equipment maintenance and repair

Risk of equipment failure: Maintenance and repair workers may be at risk from working with faulty or unstable equipment, which can lead to accidents.
Risk of chemicals and toxic substances: Exposure to chemicals and toxic substances during maintenance and repair can cause accidents or affect the health of employees.

– Accidents due to operating equipment: During testing or restarting equipment after maintenance, there is a risk of accidents due to unexpected or improper operation of the equipment.
– Risk of foreign objects and physical injury: Maintenance and repair workers may be at risk from working with sharp or heavy repair tools, which can lead to physical injury.
– Risk of electricity and heat: Working with electrical and thermal systems during maintenance and repair can create the risk of electric shock or burns.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when maintaining and repairing equipment

Lack of training and understanding: Lack of knowledge and understanding of maintenance and repair procedures can lead to unsafe or incorrect actions from workers.
Unsafe equipment: Using equipment improperly or unsafe equipment can cause accidents or injuries to employees.

– Time pressure and work overload: Time pressure and having to complete work in a short period of time can cause workers to be in a stressful state, easily leading to errors and accidents.
– Human error: Small errors in the maintenance and repair process can lead to major consequences, especially when precision and care are required.
– Lack of procedures and risk control: The lack of safety procedures and risk control in the work process can create an unsafe working environment and easily lead to accidents.

4. Preventive measures against occupational accidents when maintaining and repairing equipment

Training and guidance: Ensure that all employees involved in the maintenance and repair process are fully trained on occupational safety, work procedures, and how to handle emergency situations. Complete occupational safety training to be issued a occupational safety card by the occupational safety training center to strengthen the record as required when working.
Use of safe equipment: Ensure that all equipment and tools used in the work process are safe and meet safety standards.
Energy control: Always control and disconnect electricity or other energy sources before proceeding with equipment maintenance or repair to avoid electrical accidents.
Use of personal protective equipment: Provide and require all employees to use personal protective equipment, including helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate safety shoes.
Compliance with safety procedures: Comply with specific safety procedures established for each type of equipment and work process, including inspection, maintenance, and repair.
Ensure occupational hygiene: Ensure that the working environment is clean and organized to minimize the risk of collision and injury.
Risk assessment and feedback: Conduct periodic risk assessments and take necessary measures to minimize the risk of occupational accidents.

5. Occupational safety regulations for equipment maintenance and repair

Training and guidance: All employees involved in the maintenance and repair process must be trained on safety procedures, the use of protective equipment, and handling emergency situations.
Energy control: Before proceeding with maintenance or repair, employees must ensure that all energy sources have been disconnected and locked out.

– Use of personal protective equipment: Maintenance and repair workers must always use full and correct personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, and gloves.
– Compliance with safety procedures: Maintenance and repair procedures must be performed in accordance with regulations and specific safety standards for each type of equipment.
– Reporting and feedback: Employees should immediately report any safety or risk issues that arise during the work process and participate in proposing preventive measures.
– Assessment and continuous improvement: Conduct periodic risk assessments and continuously improve the work process to ensure the safety and efficiency of the operation.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when maintaining and repairing equipment

Ensure the safety of yourself and others: As soon as an accident occurs, workers should ensure their own safety and that of others around by moving out of the danger zone and providing assistance if necessary.
Report immediately: Workers should immediately notify the manager or occupational safety department of the accident for timely handling.

– Medical first aid: If someone is injured, medical first aid should be provided immediately. Workers should provide first aid if possible and call for an ambulance.
– Preserve the scene: The relevant artifacts and information of the accident should be carefully preserved to serve the investigation and determination of the cause later.
– Participate in the investigation and analysis of the cause: Workers should cooperate closely with the manager and the occupational safety department to investigate the cause of the accident and propose preventive measures to avoid recurrence.