AFTER THE BELL: Taming the torrent — global standard to prevent deadly mine mud rushes is overdue
There are many ways to die underground in a mine, but few can be as terrible as being caught in a mud rush.
A mud rush at a mine can be a terrifying and deadly event, with water, ore, and mud surging through a mine, engulfing everything in its path. Recent deaths in Indonesia and South Africa have put the issue on the radar of investors and insurers, prompting calls for national or global guidelines to prevent such catastrophic events.
Dr Kym Morton, a leading expert, argues that water inflows and mud events can be predictable and mitigated using modern automated monitoring methods and a better understanding of the role of water. South Africa, with its improving mine safety record and technical expertise, is in a strong position to lead the way. The Church of England and other investors are also examining the issue, and the International Council on Mining and Metals is exploring the development of a global standard to prevent mud rushes.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
