Full-time safety rep advocates for hazard-free workplace

Full-time health and safety rep Andries Kubheka                  

Andries Kubheka firmly believes that no hazard should go undetected under the sharp gaze of a mine’s safety team. With 25 years of experience, Andries has witnessed how thorough inspections and monitoring can avert harm in the workplace. “You must always maintain the mentality to work safely and be able to see a hazard in the section, no matter how small,” Andries says.

As the mine’s full-time health and safety rep, he oversees all inspections and works closely with Kangra’s safety officers. Andries highlights that every shift should commence with a comprehensive inspection to ensure employees’ safety before entering a work area. With over two decades of industry experience, Andries has witnessed the evolution of safety standards in mining. The rules have become stricter, and measures like roof bolting have been refined to ensure safer surroundings for underground employees.

Born and bred in KwaNgema, Mpumalanga, Andries holds qualifications in roof bolting, shuttle car operating, and continuous miner operating. He also holds a Comsoc 1 certificate, a basic training programme focused on introducing individuals to the fundamental principles of safety management in mining environments. Andries looks forward to doing his Comsoc 2 certificate.