BC mines receive safety awards

The government of British Columbia has awarded 13 mines in the province for their safe operating practices.

For the second consecutive year, the winner of the John Ash Safety Award, presented to the open-pit operation with more than 1 million man hours per year, is Highland Valley Copper.

The Greenfields operation of Fording Coal received the Edward Prior Safety Award, presented to the open-pit operation with between 200,000 and 1 million man hours per year that records the lowest frequency of injuries.

The Stewart-O’Brian Safety Award, presented to the mine that records between 35,000 and 200,000 man hours per year with the fewest injuries, was shared by three operations: Mainland Sand and Gravel; Steelhead Aggregates; and Westroc.

Companies receiving certificates of achievement included: Allard Contractors; Coquitlam Sand and Gravel; Heather Construction; Plateau Construction; Harper Ranch Lime Quarry; Shawnigan Gravel Supplies; Steelhead Aggregates; and West Coast Aggregates.

In addition, Elkview Coal was awarded for having the best overall health and safety committee.