AI illustrationIndustries - Mining (surface)
Sun safety for surface mining
Open pits, haul roads and altitude: some of the highest UV doses at work. Surface mining crews, haul-road teams, plant maintenance and exploration staff work long shifts in direct sun, often at altitude and near light ground. UV belongs in the mine risk assessment beside heat stress.
Where the exposure comes from
- Long outdoor shifts on open pits, stockpiles and haul roads
- Reflection from light ground, water and metal
- Heat stress that discourages long sleeves
- Remote sites with limited shade
Controls that work, in order
- UV in the risk assessment under the Mine Health and Safety Act 29 of 1996
- Hard-hat brims and neck flaps as standard issue
- Shade and rest points on haul roads and at plant
- Sun Stations at change houses, lamp rooms and vehicles
- Supervisor checks in pre-shift meetings
Sunscreen supports shade and clothing; it does not replace them.
Recommended for this sector
Full Compliance Site Pack: R 8,450 a month per 25 workers
All-day exposure at altitude: full-day coverage. R 9,717.50 incl. 15% VAT. Everything in Standard with 18 L a month (about 34 ml per worker-day) and the annual Sun-Safe Workplace programme mark. 12-month term.
AI illustration- Sun Station wall dispenser installed free on loan
- Scheduled SPF 50 broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) refills
- Posters, toolbox talk and quarterly audit visit
- Free download for this sector: UV-index wall chart and toolbox talk
SPF 50
broad spectrum (UVA/UVB)
Batch + expiry
on every pack, checkable online
Made in SA
for Health Brands SA (Pty) Ltd
Sun Stations
installed free on loan with a Site Pack
Questions from this sector
Does the Mine Health and Safety Act cover UV exposure?
The Act does not name UV specifically, but it requires employers to identify hazards and assess and control the risks to health. Solar UV is a recognised occupational hazard, so it belongs in that process for surface work.
How do we balance UV clothing with heat stress?
Specify light-coloured, breathable UPF-rated fabrics, add shade and work-rest cycles during peak hours and provide cooling options. The two risks are managed together in the same plan.
Is sun protection a legal duty?
Section 8 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 requires employers to provide a working environment that is safe and without risk to health, as far as reasonably practicable. Solar UV is a recognised occupational hazard, so it belongs in the risk assessment. This is general information, not legal advice.
Protect your outdoor team this week
Start with a free UV risk assessment: about five minutes, an instant score, ranked actions and a branded PDF for your safety file.