16 April 2007
The Department of Labour's formal inquiry into Manganese poisoning at
Assmang Ltd. in Cato Ridge, Durban has adjourned to 9 to 11 July.
Scores of workers some of them in crutches, union representatives, approved
inspection authorities, and the Department of Labour officials, attended the
first session of the Inquiry on Thursday and Friday last week.
More than 20 witnesses were summoned to testify before the hearing. But only
Assmang Ltd Chief Executive Officer Brian Robert Broekman presented a statement
before the Inquiry. This was followed by cross examination by the legal
representatives of the victims.
The enquiry forms part of the Department of Labour investigation which
started in November 2006 when five (5) workers were reported to be suffering
from possible manganese poisoning. Manganese fumes or dust that is inhaled
primarily affects the central nervous system. An intake of high concentrations
will cause flu-like illnesses referred to as manganese pneumonitis.
The aim of the inquiry is to establish:
* the cause of exposure that resulted in manganese (occupational diseases)
that the employees are suffering from
* the level of manganese fumes or dust exposure to the workers
* whether the employer has fulfilled the legal obligation of preventing
exposure as prescribed in the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 and
Hazardous Chemicals Substances Regulations
* whether control mechanisms were put in place by the employer
* who will be held responsible for the exposure
* whether the necessary preventive measures to prevent a repeat of the incident
were taken.
Department of Labour officials who presided over the matter requested that
Assmang Ltd provide evidence in relation to safety induction booklet for
employees, material safety data sheet, and the incident register for the last
three years. The inquiry has adjourned until 9 to 11 July to allow more
presentations and cross examination.
Enquiries:
Zolisa Sigabi
Cell: 082 906 3878
Issued by: Department of Labour
16 April 2007
