Mine Workers Union Raises Concerns Over Safety Risks

The Ghana Mine Workers Union (GMWU) has raised concerns over what it describes as growing safety risks at some mining operations owned by Chinese investors, accusing certain operators of failing to comply with industry regulations.

The warning comes at a time when Ghana’s mining sector has recorded significant improvements in occupational health and safety through technological advancements and stronger regulatory oversight. However, the Union says some operators continue to disregard established safety standards in pursuit of profit, threatening gains made by the industry over the years.

According to the General Secretary of the GMWU, Abdul-Moomin Gbana, the concerns are not directed at all Chinese-owned mining companies but rather a number of operators who consistently fail to comply with the law.

“I am not referring to all Chinese investments. There are a number of recalcitrant Chinese investors operating in the industry who do not comply with the law,” he stated.

Mr. Gbana noted that while foreign investment remains important to Ghana’s economic growth, some non-compliant operators are creating unsafe working environments that endanger both mine workers and nearby communities.

The Union warned that failure to observe occupational health and safety regulations exposes workers to significant dangers, including mine collapses, machinery-related accidents and improper handling of explosives.

According to industry experts, inadequate safety measures can result in fatal incidents as well as long-term health complications arising from exposure to silica dust and other hazardous substances commonly associated with mining activities.

The Union further noted that workers operating without the required protective equipment remain vulnerable to workplace injuries and occupational diseases.

Mr. Gbana also pointed to concerns relating to outsourced security services within the mining industry. He indicated that inadequate oversight of third-party security personnel has, in some cases, left workers exposed to criminal attacks and violent confrontations, resulting in serious injuries and permanent trauma.

Beyond workplace safety, the Union expressed concern over the environmental impact of unregulated mining practices.

According to the GMWU, some non-compliant operators engage in improper disposal of mining waste, leading to the contamination of rivers and other water bodies with hazardous substances such as mercury, arsenic and cyanide.

The Union warned that such pollutants can enter the food chain and pose long-term health risks to communities that depend on these natural resources for drinking water, farming and fishing.

It also highlighted the effects of uncontrolled excavation, including deforestation, soil erosion and the destruction of agricultural lands. These activities, the Union said, increase the risk of flooding and undermine the livelihoods of residents in mining communities.

The GMWU is therefore calling on government and regulatory agencies, particularly the Minerals Commission, to intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts across the mining sector.

Mr. Gbana disclosed that the Union has repeatedly reported its concerns to the Minerals Commission and has petitioned both the sector minister and the National Labour Commission for intervention.

According to the Union, regular inspections and strict enforcement of the Minerals and Mining Act are necessary to prevent avoidable accidents and ensure that all mining companies operate within the law.

The GMWU believes stronger regulatory oversight will not only protect mine workers from preventable injuries but also safeguard communities and preserve Ghana’s natural environment for future generations.