Mines Safety Inspector

OFO No:  325707

Other names for Mines Safety Inspector:

• Mine Air Quality Officer
• Mine Radiation Officer
• Mine Risk Control Officer
• Mines Inspector
• Mines Safety Officer

What is a Mines Safety Inspector (MHSI)?

The Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) employs Mines Safety Inspectors.

There are 4 kinds of mine inspectors:

• Inspector of Mines
• Inspector of Machinery
• Inspector of Occupational Hygiene
• Medical Inspector

A Mines Safety Inspector is responsible for the safety and health of the employees and other persons (like sub-contractors, visitors etc) on the mine.

What does a Mines Safety Inspector do?

(this will depend on what kind of inspector you are)

• follows strict safety and hygiene regulations
• advises on the implementation of these rules
• inspects mines
• does research
• makes sure mine is follow the safety and hygiene regulations
• investigates accidents on the mine
• inspects and tests equipment
• inspects confined spaces for ventilation etc
• inspects hazardous materials and waste
• makes sure water, food and environment is safe for people

Are you . . . ?

• interested in mining?
• interested in safety?
• reliable and responsible?
• trustworthy?
• observant?
• compassionate?
• a people’s person?
• methodical?

How do I become a Mines Safety Inspector?

A inspector needs a driver’s license and be computer literate (MS Office)

PATH 1

Inspector of Mines:

• You will need to complete a relevant mining-related degree or diploma
• Or … A Matric with at least 3 years underground mining work experience
• Completion of the Mine Manager’s Government Certificate of Competency (GCC)
• 1 year work experience after completion of the GCC

PATH 2

Inspector of Machinery:

• Completed a Diploma or Degree in Engineering
• 2 years of workplace experience of which at least one must be at a mine
• Complete one of these Mine Engineer Government Certificates of Competency (GCC):

GCC: Electrical Engineer for Mines and Work
GCC: Mechanical Engineer for Mines and Work

• 1 year of workplace experience as a Section Engineer on a mine

PATH 3 

Inspector of Occupational Hygiene:

• Learnership – Occupational Safety, Hygiene and Environmental (Mining and Minerals) at Level 2, 3 and 4
• Relevant work experience – then apply for the job as a MHSI

PATH 4

Medical Inspector:

• Qualify as a medical doctor (GP)
• Complete a post-graduate diploma in Occupational Health
• Workplace experience

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Mining Engineering Technician or Nuclear Power Plant Process Controller

Is becoming a Mines Safety Inspector the right career choice for me?