understand why these structures are being
implemented. It’s about everyone being
comfortable in the workplace.”
The industry also needs to understand
that women are vulnerable, adds Van
den Berg.
“Being vulnerable is a challenge. Why
doesn’t the workplace accept that women
are vulnerable? How will the industry
adjust to that vulnerability? However,
it doesn’t mean women should stand
back in their technical ability. Standing
up in front of a group of men takes a lot
of courage, self-confidence. What I’ve
learned is to know your product, know
your process, know your commodity and,
lastly, know your audience. Respect goes
a long way; the definition of respect is: ‘a
feeling of deep admiration for someone
or something elicited by their abilities,
qualities or achievements’. That rule is for
any audience, it’s not a male or female
thing,” she says.
Van den Berg adds that the working
environment in mining is dirty and harsh.
“You get dirty, you get challenged, you
get asked questions that are not easy to
answer. You get may get harassed, so be
prepared, it’s not easy. It’s up to women
to acquire the knowledge to command
16_QUARRY SA| JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019
BUSINESS
Research analysis reveals that women in surface mining operations seek improved ablution facilities.
respect from their male colleagues. It’s
important that they not only understand
their role and what they are doing, but
also understand the bigger picture in
mining, so that when they interact in this
male-dominated environment they can
talk alongside their male counterparts
about technical aspects, for example.”
MHSC aimed to go through 1 090
more responses before the end of last year.
The ultimate goal of the research is to have
a proper risk evaluation process that
can deal with all the issues that are
uncovered.