Minerals Commission advocates safe use of explosives

The Minerals Commission has indicated its resolve to remain tough on mining operators who flout the regulations governing the use of explosives in their operations. This follows the passing of the Minerals and Mining Explosives regulation, LI 2177.

The new LI 2177 is to provide the framework for more control in the storage and usage of explosives to ensure that the safety of workers and the general public is not compromised and the environment is also not unduly affected.

Per the new regulations, any person who intends to buy and use explosives for mining purposes shall apply to the commission for an operating license.

An Inspector of Mines at the Commission, Mr Joseph Frimpong, in an interview with the GRAPHIC BUSINESS, said the commission would not relent in its efforts to deal with recalcitrant operators.

According to him, specific sanctions would be prescribed to defaulters, ranging from fines to imprisonment.

“Unlawful possessions, transportation, manufacture and use of explosives is an offence liable on summary conviction to a fine or a term of imprisonment of not more than four years,” he said.

Again, a person who willfully obstructs or resists an officer in the lawful exercise of a power conferred on that officer by this regulation commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine or imprisonment for a term of not more than two years or both.

Speaking at a workshop on professional handling and the use of explosives organised by the commission in collaboration with WILEB Mining Supplies Limited, Mr Frimpong stressed the need for operators to acquire the appropriate certification from the commission before using explosives in its operations.

“A manager shall ensure that an activity for which that manager is responsible and which involves explosives is carried out only under the supervision of a person who has the required certificate of competency,” he explained.

He, however, added that explosives must be packed in accordance with the latest edition of the transport of dangerous goods, prepared by the United Nation Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods.

By Jessica Acheampong/Graphic Business/Ghana