The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) says it is deeply saddened by the death of miner and dredge owner Donald Gouveia, called Danny, on Monday, June 13, 2022, as he was working in a pit at Micobie Backdam, Region 8.
The association, while recognising that the mining sector is a high-risk, hazardous industry, is urging miners to follow good occupation health and safety practices.
It was keen to note that based on the results of various Commissions of Inquiry into mining incidents, many of the incidents that resulted in fatalities could have been avoided with better planning.
“The GGDMA, therefore, urges the adaptation of practices and technology that not only increases the productivity but also the safety and health of workers. The GGDMA once again emphasizes that miners must pay particular attention to operating standards and safety procedures in all phases of mining. We call upon our members and miners to take all necessary precautions to ensure safety standards are followed,” it said.
The association also noted it commitment to working with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), the Ministry of Labour and the miners to reduce accidents in the mining sector while reiterating its appeal to all miners to recognize the fundamental importance of implementing good safety practices.
