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Discover detailed guidance on occupational safety in the mining of thorium ore, a potential energy source that requires caution. Ensure a comprehensive understanding of the necessary safety measures to protect health and the environment.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN THE THORIUM 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 Thorium Ore Mines

The mining of thorium ore in mines is a controversial issue and poses many risks to workers. Despite its great potential for energy and industrial applications, thorium mining activities often encounter problems related to occupational safety.

In reality, thorium ore mines have recorded many serious accidents. These accidents not only cause human casualties but also have a negative impact on the environment and the health of surrounding communities. Below are some notable accidents:

Landslides:
- During mining, digging deep into the ground can cause landslides that threaten the lives of workers. Landslides can occur due to weak soil structure or lack of geological surveys.
Blasting:
- The process of blasting to mine thorium ore can lead to serious explosions, causing injury or death to workers and damaging infrastructure.
Poisoning:
- Workers may face the risk of thorium poisoning, a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems such as cancer and cell damage.
Equipment accidents:
- During the use and operation of mining equipment, accidents can occur due to a lack of safety or technical failures, causing injury or death to workers.

Accidents in thorium ore mines are not only a direct threat to workers but also pose great challenges in managing safety and protecting the environment in this industry. To minimize risks and protect workers, it is necessary to implement safety measures and quality control.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN MINING THORIUM ORE

I. Occupational Safety and Health for Drilling and Blasting Staff

1. Characteristics of Drilling and Blasting Work

Drilling and blasting are an important part of the work in a thorium ore mine. Miners often participate in these stages to create boreholes in the rock face and then carry out the blasting process to destroy and separate the thorium ore from the rock.

This requires specialized knowledge of safe drilling and blasting methods, as well as the use of appropriate equipment and machinery. Miners need to have a clear understanding of the properties of the rock and thorium ore to choose the most suitable drilling and blasting method. The execution of drilling and blasting requires precision and certainty to ensure the safety of themselves and other workers, while optimizing efficiency in the mining process.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during Drilling and Blasting

During the drilling and blasting process in a thorium ore mine, miners face many risks of occupational accidents. The types of accidents can include landslides due to careless drilling, uncontrolled blasting explosions, or technical failures when using equipment and machinery.

These accidents can cause serious injury or even death to the workers involved. At the same time, the risk of poisoning from chemicals used in the drilling and blasting process is also a concern.

The application of safety measures such as wearing protective gear, complying with safety procedures and regulations, along with providing training and education on occupational safety, is essential to minimize the risk of accidents and protect workers in this process.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents when Drilling and Blasting

Occupational accidents during the drilling and blasting process in a thorium ore mine can have causes from a number of different factors. One of the main causes is the lack of geological surveys, where miners do not properly and thoroughly assess the soil structure before proceeding with drilling and blasting. Weaknesses in safety management can also lead to accidents, when there are no clear safety procedures or when safety regulations are not properly followed.

In addition, technical failures or breakdowns of equipment and machinery are another cause of occupational accidents. Lack of control and supervision during the execution process can also create conditions for incidents to occur. For work environments containing toxic chemicals, the risk of poisoning is also another concerning cause of occupational accidents. To minimize the risk, it is necessary to assess and manage these risks, along with strict adherence to safety procedures and quality control in the drilling and blasting process.

4. Measures to Prevent Occupational Accidents when Drilling and Blasting

To prevent occupational accidents during the drilling and blasting process in a thorium ore mine, the application of safety measures is very important. First, training and occupational safety training are indispensable. All workers involved in the drilling and blasting process should be trained on safety procedures, safety regulations, and the proper use of protective gear.

The assessment and characterization of the work environment are also very important. It is necessary to take measures to ensure the safety of everyone, including controlling dust and toxic gases, ensuring the ventilation of the workspace, and minimizing the risk of landslides.

The use of safe equipment and machinery is also an important measure. The equipment needs to be periodically inspected and maintained to ensure it operates safely and effectively. At the same time, compliance with regulations on the use and operation of equipment is also important.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for Drilling and Blasting

During the drilling and blasting process in a thorium ore mine, it is extremely important to comply with occupational safety regulations to ensure the safety of all participating workers. These regulations include wearing full and proper protective gear, including helmets, safety glasses, nail-proof shoes, and heat-resistant gloves. In addition, workers also need to be trained on how to use equipment and machinery safely, and must comply with the procedures and safety regulations established before starting work.

Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment is also an important part of occupational safety regulations. Workers need to perform thorough checks before using equipment and report immediately if any problems or breakdowns are found. At the same time, supervision and education on occupational safety also need to be carried out periodically to ensure everyone is aware of the risks and accident prevention measures.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents when Drilling and Blasting

In a mining environment, handling emergency occupational accidents when drilling and blasting is an important skill that every miner needs to be trained and prepared for. In the event of an accident, a timely and effective response can minimize losses and save the lives of the victims.

The emergency accident handling procedure often includes protecting oneself and others first. Miners need to know how to mark hazardous areas and move victims out of the danger zone if possible without putting themselves at risk.

Then, calling for emergency services and providing specific information about the location and condition of the victim to the rescue teams is very important. At the same time, providing immediate first aid, including basic first aid such as CPR and advanced first aid if necessary, is also an indispensable part of the emergency accident handling process.

II. Occupational Safety and Health for Machinery and Equipment Operators

1. Characteristics of Machinery and Equipment Operation Work

In a mining environment, operating machinery and equipment is an important part of a miner’s job. Miners are assigned the task of operating the various types of machinery and equipment necessary in the process of mining thorium ore.

One common job is operating drills, which are used to create boreholes in the rock face in preparation for blasting. These drills require precision and control to ensure that drilling is done correctly and safely.

In addition, miners also often participate in operating excavators to proceed with the extraction of thorium ore from the rock face. Operating an excavator requires certainty and control to ensure that the digging process is carried out efficiently and safely.

Equipment such as air compressors is also an important part of the mining process. They are used to supply compressed air to other equipment such as drills and excavators.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during Machinery and Equipment Operation

During the operation of machinery and equipment in a mining environment, miners face many risks of occupational accidents. The types of accidents can include problems related to the use of machinery and equipment, as well as other unforeseen situations.

One of the common risks is accidents due to technical failures of machinery and equipment. Drills, excavators, air compressors, and ore processing equipment can experience sudden breakdowns or technical failures, posing a danger to the operator.

In addition, using machinery without following the proper procedures or safety regulations can also lead to occupational accidents. For example, not wearing enough protective gear or using machinery when it is in a broken state can be dangerous.

Another risk is accidents due to an unsafe work environment, including problems such as landslides, backwardness in managing hazardous areas, or non-compliance with regulations on safe work locations.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents when Operating Machinery and Equipment

Occupational accidents when operating machinery and equipment in a mining environment can stem from many different causes. One of the main causes is technical failure of the machinery and equipment. Drills, excavators, air compressors, and ore processing equipment can experience sudden breakdowns, posing a danger to the operator.

In addition, a lack of understanding and operating skills is also a common cause. When the operator does not have enough knowledge on how to use the machinery safely or does not follow the procedures and regulations, the risk of accidents increases significantly.

Unsafe working conditions also contribute to causing occupational accidents. For example, a poorly ventilated work environment, an unclearly marked work area, or insufficient lighting also create conditions for accidents to occur.

In addition, a lack of supervision and management is also a potential cause. When there is no proper supervision from management or no system for regular equipment inspection, the risk of accidents increases.

4. Measures to Prevent Occupational Accidents when Operating Machinery and Equipment

To prevent occupational accidents when operating machinery and equipment in a mining environment, it is very important to apply preventive measures. First, regular monitoring of the work environment is necessary to assess and monitor hazardous factors such as dust, toxic gases, and lighting. This helps to identify hazardous areas and take appropriate preventive measures.

Second, it is also an important measure to ensure full compliance with safety procedures and operating regulations. All miners need to be trained on how to use machinery and equipment safely, as well as wear enough protective gear and follow safety regulations when working.

Third, regular maintenance and upkeep of the equipment also plays an important role in preventing unwanted technical failures. Ensuring that the machinery and equipment are thoroughly inspected and regularly maintained helps to minimize the risk of breakdowns and incidents during operation.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for Operating Machinery and Equipment

Occupational safety regulations for operating machinery and equipment in a mining environment are very important to ensure the safety of all workers involved in the work process. First, all miners need to be trained and instructed on how to operate machinery and equipment safely and effectively. This training should include safety procedures, operating regulations, and the proper use of protective gear.

In addition, it is also an important part of the occupational safety regulations to ensure that all machinery and equipment are regularly inspected and maintained. These inspections help to detect technical problems early and ensure that the machinery and equipment are operating safely and effectively.

Wearing enough protective gear is also an indispensable element of the occupational safety regulations. All workers must ensure that they wear enough protective gear such as helmets, safety glasses, nail-proof shoes, and ear protection when working near machinery and equipment.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents when Operating Machinery and Equipment

In a mining environment, handling emergency occupational accidents when operating machinery and equipment is an important skill that every miner needs to be trained and prepared for. In the event of an accident, a timely and effective response can minimize losses and save the lives of the victims.

III. Occupational Safety and Health for Equipment Inspection and Maintenance Staff

1. Characteristics of Equipment Inspection and Maintenance Work

Equipment inspection and maintenance is an important part of a miner’s job. They must ensure that the equipment is operating safely and effectively by performing regular inspections and maintenance.

First, equipment inspection work requires care and precision. Miners must inspect every detail of the equipment to determine if there are any problems. The parts to be inspected may include the control system, mechanical parts, electrical system, and other components.

Next, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure that the equipment operates smoothly and effectively. Miners need to perform the regular maintenance steps designated by the manufacturer or according to the procedure established by the mine. These steps may include changing oil, cleaning, lubricating, and replacing necessary parts.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

During the equipment inspection and maintenance process, miners can face many different types of occupational accidents. Although this is an important part of the job, it also brings many risks if not done correctly.

One of the common types of accidents is accidents due to technical failures of the equipment. During the inspection, if technical problems are not recognized or handled in time, it can lead to incidents that cause injury or serious damage to the equipment and the miner.

Accidents can also occur due to a lack of knowledge and skills in occupational safety. If miners are not fully trained on how to perform inspections and maintenance safely, they may be at risk when working with complex equipment.

In addition, accidents can occur due to non-compliance with safety procedures and regulations on personal protection. The lack of use of enough protective gear or non-compliance with safety rules during inspection and maintenance can lead to unwanted accidents.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents during Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

There are many causes of occupational accidents during the equipment inspection and maintenance process in a mining environment. One of the main causes is a lack of understanding and skills in occupational safety. If miners are not fully trained on how to perform inspections and maintenance safely, they may be at risk when working with complex equipment.

In addition, technical failure of the equipment is also a significant cause of accidents. During the inspection, if technical problems are not recognized or handled in time, it can lead to incidents that cause injury or serious damage to the equipment and the miner.

Another cause may be an unsafe work environment. An unclearly marked work area, insufficient lighting, or poor ventilation also create conditions for accidents to occur.

Finally, a lack of supervision and management is also a potential cause. When there is no proper supervision from management or no system for regular equipment inspection, the risk of accidents increases.

4. Measures to Prevent Occupational Accidents during Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

To prevent occupational accidents when inspecting and maintaining equipment in a mining environment, it is very important to apply safety measures strictly. First and foremost, it is essential to ensure that all miners are fully trained in occupational safety and inspection and maintenance procedures. They need to be provided with the necessary knowledge and skills to recognize and handle potential risks.

Second, establishing a proper inspection and maintenance procedure is extremely important. These procedures should be designed to ensure that every inspection and maintenance step is performed safely and effectively. At the same time, personal protection measures should also be established to ensure the safety of miners during their work.

In addition, maintaining a clean and tidy work environment also plays an important role in preventing accidents. Work areas should be carefully maintained to avoid unwanted incidents due to clutter or poorly arranged items.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

Occupational safety regulations for equipment inspection and maintenance in a mining environment play an important role in ensuring a safe and effective work environment for miners. These regulations need to be established and strictly followed to minimize the risk of accidents and protect the health of employees.

First, all miners need to be fully trained on the equipment inspection and maintenance process, including related safety measures. This training not only helps them to recognize and handle potential risks but also helps them to understand the importance of complying with occupational safety regulations.

Second, the inspection and maintenance procedures need to be established in detail and clearly. This includes identifying specific steps to inspect and maintain each type of equipment as well as assigning responsibility for these tasks.

In addition, the proper use of personal protective equipment is also an indispensable part of the occupational safety regulations. Miners need to be fully equipped and use protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and safety glasses when performing inspection and maintenance tasks.

Take tests at occupational safety centers to obtain an occupational safety certificate. From there, the worker will have a clear understanding of safety knowledge as well as valid certification for work.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents during Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

In a mining environment, handling emergency occupational accidents when inspecting and maintaining equipment is an important part of the occupational safety process. When an accident occurs, a quick and effective response can minimize damage and protect the health of employees.

In the event of an accident, an immediate report and a call for medical assistance are top priorities. Miners need to be trained on how to make emergency calls and provide detailed information about the location, the victim’s condition, and any additional risks.

Then, the accident area needs to be cordoned off and made safe before any rescue operations are carried out. This includes stopping other activities around, providing personal protective measures for employees participating in the rescue, and ensuring that there is no risk of further accidents or incidents.

Next, a cause investigation of the accident needs to be conducted to determine the specific cause and propose future preventive measures. This may include inspecting equipment, work processes, and related environmental factors to find weaknesses and improve safety.

IV. Occupational Safety and Health for Ore Handling and Transportation Staff

1. Characteristics of Ore Handling and Transportation Work

The work of handling and transporting ore is an important part of the mining process after the ore has been destroyed and separated from the rock face. Miners must perform many tasks to ensure that the ore is transported to the processing or storage location safely and effectively.

First, this work may include using ore processing equipment such as conveyor belts to move the ore from the mining site to the processing site. The conveyor belts are used to transfer the ore over long distances, saving time and labor for the workers.

Next, the use of trucks to transport the ore from the mining areas to the processing facilities is an important part of this work. Miners need to have safe driving skills and an understanding of how to operate various types of trucks to ensure that the ore is transported efficiently and safely on the road.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during Ore Handling and Transportation

Accidents when operating equipment: The use of ore processing equipment such as conveyor belts and trucks requires high skill and attention from miners. Accidents can occur due to technical failures, loss of control, or lack of experience in operating this equipment.
Traffic accidents: During the transportation of ore by truck, traffic accidents can occur for many reasons such as technical failures, bad road conditions, or driver error. This poses a high risk of injury to miners and the risk of harm to the surrounding environment.
Accidents due to chemical incidents: During the ore processing process, the use of chemicals such as acids, solvents, and other processing agents can cause serious accidents if the correct procedures and safety measures are not followed.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents when Handling and Transporting Ore

Lack of training and experience: A lack of the necessary knowledge and skills in using ore processing equipment and driving trucks can lead to errors and accidents.
Technical failures: The equipment and machinery used in the process of handling and transporting ore may experience technical failures, such as breakdowns or loss of control, leading to accidents.
Lack of safety procedures: Failure to follow proper safety procedures in the work process, including the use of personal protective equipment and safety checks before operating the equipment, can cause accidents.
Unsafe work environment: Unsafe working conditions such as severe weather, mountainous terrain, or a work environment with toxic chemicals can increase the risk of accidents.
Fatigue and lack of concentration: Continuous work and time pressure can cause employees to lose concentration, leading to fatigue and errors, causing accidents.

4. Measures to Prevent Occupational Accidents when Handling and Transporting Ore

Training and education: Provide comprehensive and continuous training on occupational safety for employees involved in the ore handling and transportation process. Ensure they understand the safety regulations and procedures, as well as how to properly use personal protective equipment and work equipment. Take tests at occupational safety centers to obtain an occupational safety card to properly supplement your work records.
Regular inspection and maintenance: Maintain and regularly inspect the equipment and machinery used in the ore handling and transportation process to ensure they operate safely and effectively. Take timely maintenance and repair measures to avoid unwanted incidents.
Compliance with safety procedures: Comply with occupational safety procedures and regulations, including the use of personal protective equipment and safety checks before operating the equipment. Ensure that all employees understand and comply with these regulations every time they work.
Supervision and inspection: Conduct regular supervision and inspection of ore handling and transportation activities to ensure compliance with safety regulations and early detection of any problems that could lead to accidents.
Creating a safe and positive work environment: Create a safe and positive work environment by encouraging the participation and contribution of all employees in improving occupational safety and preventing accidents.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for Handling and Transporting Ore

Compliance with safety procedures: Employees performing ore handling and transportation work must comply with the safety procedures and regulations issued by the management or the mining authority. This includes the use of personal protective equipment and compliance with occupational safety regulations.
Training and education: Provide comprehensive training on occupational safety for all new employees involved in ore handling and transportation activities. Ensure that they are aware of the potential hazards and know how to prevent them.
Equipment inspection and maintenance: Conduct regular inspection and maintenance of ore handling and transportation equipment to ensure they operate safely and effectively. This includes inspecting conveyor belts, trucks, and other equipment to detect and promptly address technical problems.
Use of personal protective equipment: Ensure that all employees use full and proper personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and anti-slip shoes when working near equipment or in a hazardous environment.
Promoting safe communication: Promote a work environment where safe communication is highly valued, including reporting potential hazards, instructing on the use of equipment, and exchanging information related to occupational safety among employees.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents when Handling and Transporting Ore

Report and call for rescue: As soon as an accident occurs, the worker should report the situation to the management or the safety department. At the same time, it is necessary to call for rescue and request assistance from the fire department or medical teams if necessary.
Move employees to safety: In case of a safety risk to employees, it is necessary to move them out of the hazardous area and provide basic first aid if possible. This needs to be done quickly and effectively to ensure the lives and health of everyone.
Cordon off the area: To prevent the spread of danger, it is necessary to cordon off the accident area and prohibit anyone from approaching until the situation is completely under control. This may require assistance from the fire department or security forces to be carried out safely.
Gather information: After the situation is under control, it is necessary to gather detailed information about the cause and scale of the accident. This information will help in analyzing the cause and proposing measures to improve safety in the future.
Evaluate and improve: Finally, after the accident has been handled, it is necessary to re-evaluate the current safety measures and propose improvements to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. This requires cooperation between management and employees to ensure a safe and sustainable work environment.