(a) whether the Mines Rules 1955, chapter-IVB stipulates formation of Safety
Committee of Mines (SCM) to promote safety in the mines;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the number of meetings held since
constitution of SCM, year-wise;
(c) the details of matter discussed under SCM alongwith the action taken
thereon; and
(d) the steps taken by the Government for welfares and upliftment of
labourers/workers engaged in Mines?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a): Yes,Madam.
(b): This is an activity of Mine Management and details of meetings of Safety
Committee of Mines are not centrally maintained.
(c): As per the provision of the Mines Rules, 1955, the functions of the
Committee are as follows:
(i) To discuss remedial measures against the unsafe conditions and practices in
the mine as pointed out in the reports of workmen`s inspector or otherwise brought
to the notice of the Committee and make appropriate recommendations;
(ii) to consider, before commencement of operations in any new district of mine or
commissioning of new electrical or mechanical installation or introduction of new
mining technique, the proposed safety and health measures including related codes
of practice and to make appropriate recommendations;
(iii) To discuss the report of inquiry into accident and make appropriate
recommendations;
(iv) to formulate and implement appropriate safety campaigns based on analysis of
accidents;
(v) to meet at least once in 30 days to consider the matter placed before it and
any other matter that may be raised by the members and make such recommendations as
it may deem fit; and
(vi) to serve as a forum for communication on safety and occupational health
matters.
As per the provisions of Mines Rules, 1955 the owner, agent or manager shall, within
a period of 15 days from the date of receipt of the recommendations of the Safety
Committee, shall indicate to the Secretary to the Safety Committee, the action taken
to implement the recommendations.
(d): There is a provision under Rule 72 of Mines Rules, 1955 for appointment of
Welfare Officer in every mine where 500 or more persons are employed. The
appointment of Welfare Officer is primarily the responsibility of mines management.
During the inspection by the officers of Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS)
implementation of this rule is looked into. Duties of welfare officer have been
specified under rule 73 of Mines Rules, 1955.