MomentSky Mine in Siavonga, a Chinese fluoride minerals company has been fined K90,000 by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security for exposing over 100 workers to unsafe conditions.
An inspection by officials from the Ministry, NAPSA, and the Workers’ Compensation Fund Control Board conducted Thursday revealed that miners were using hazardous pit latrines, raising serious health concerns.
Assistant Labour Commissioner Dr. Joseph Kaindama says the company also failed to communicate key workplace policies, including HIV awareness.
Authorities have ordered the immediate closure and demolition of the pit latrines and the construction of safe, compliant sanitation facilities.
Meanwhile, a Chinese supervisor has been warned over allegations of harassment and mistreatment of workers.
Employees reported being monitored and timed during bathroom breaks, with threats of dismissal for minor infractions.
Mine Manager Zilong Zhou has apologized and assured authorities that corrective measures would be taken, including ending harassment and ensuring compliance with labour laws.
Helga Chibwe
