Mining companies with the best records in health and safety measures for B.C. workers in 2020 were recognized by the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation at the virtual 59th annual Mine Safety Awards.

“Our government and the mining sector in B.C. take worker safety very seriously. We want all workers to return home healthy and safe at the end of the day,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “While mining is one of the safest heavy industries in B.C., we know that there is always more that we can do, as accidents happen. These awards give us a chance to recognize the efforts that these companies are making every day to protect their workers.”

The Mine Safety Awards were first presented in 1961 by the Province and occur annually to recognize mines and quarries that have accumulated 15,000 or more worker hours with the lowest injury frequency rate in the previous calendar year. The awards reaffirm the provincial government’s commitment to prioritizing health and safety in mining and mineral exploration.

The companies recognized for 2020 are considered leaders in workplace safety in B.C. and include Sandhill Materials Inc, Mainland Construction Materials and Ward Road Quarry winning the Stewart/O’Brian Award, which is presented to mines with the lowest injury frequency rate between 35,000 and 200,000 worker hours. Conuma Coal Resources Ltd.’s Brule Mine won the Edward Prior Award, which is presented to the mines with the lowest injury-frequency rate for mines between 200,000 and one million worker hours.

The awards coincide with the proclamation of May as Mining Month in British Columbia, which recognizes the role mining plays in British Columbia and the critical contribution it makes to the provincial economy and to communities and families.

“British Columbia’s mining sector is a recognized leader in health and safety practices,” said Michael Goehring, president and CEO of the Mining Association of BC. “Our strong health and safety culture and the industry’s collective commitment to protect workers helps ensure everyone goes home safe to their loved ones and families at the end of each day. Congratulations to this year’s Mine Safety Awards winners.”

Mining accounts for more than 30,000 jobs in B.C. and has significant indirect impacts on suppliers and service providers in every part of the Province. The mining and mineral exploration sector has always been a significant part of British Columbia’s economy, providing good, family-supporting jobs for people in communities throughout the province.