ICMM Launches New Tools to Support Mental Health and Safety for Mining Workers – What You Need to Know

The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) has launched a collective approach to implement psychological health and safety across mining and metals companies. The program seeks to embed mental health into daily practices and organizational culture which potentially showcasing a marked improvement in safety outcomes in the sector.

Although the sector has advanced greatly in addressing physical risks, psychological safety remains an area that is still developing. Threats including fatigue, isolation, job strain, harassment and trauma are still prevalent in many workplaces. These threats have consequences beyond worker well-being, as they will also impact issues like retention, performance and safety culture.

What Do the New ICMM Tools Offer?

The ICMM’s Tools for Psychological Health and Safety provide practical and scalable solutions in accordance with ISO 45003 and national legislation. The tools will focus on four areas of practice:

• Prevention: psychosocial risk management is built into business systems to foster mentally healthy work environments. 
• Early Intervention: leaders trained, safe reporting pathways, integrated monitoring. 
• Response: trauma-informed responses, tailored return-to-work plans.  
• Promotion: work environments that support connection, engagement, and meaningfulness.

These tools draw upon ICMM’s 2023 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) toolkit, and are flexible enough to work within existing health and safety systems.

Why Is This a Turning Point for the Industry?

“Improved psychological safety improves physical safety,” says Rohitesh Dhawan, ICMM CEO. The tools can help create cultures for workers to speak up, stay safe and flourish. As companies pursue the idea of zero harm, it is no longer optional to consider psychological health as part of their core business operations; it is necessary. 

By taking this step, ICMM has set a new standard for responsible, human-centered mining, globally.

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