As the global need for natural resources increases, mining companies are being forced into increasingly more remote and challenging regions around the world. None are more challenging than the African landscape. Since the mining projects involve 100s sometimes 1000s of employees performing manual labour, using heavy equipment and operating in unforgiving environments, it has become vital to include an on-site medical clinic to assist with the inevitable accidents.
Is it possible to have an accident-free project?
In short, the answer is no. We are always able to mitigate risks by implementing safety protocols across the site, however, the combination of the type of work, location of the project and the limited access to infrastructure often leaves companies without a choice but to provide medical care on-site.
An on-site clinic should be considered an essential aspect of any project, no matter the size of the project, when loss of life is even a possibility, it is always better to be prepared for any situation. Although an on-site clinic is essential, it is often times difficult to find a suitable partner who can offer you all the expertise you require. However, once you have found the right medical partner, they can provide you with different options that best suits your needs and budget.
Clinic is a Loosely Used Term
An on-site clinic does not need to be a brick-and-mortar building; it’s more accurate to say that it encompasses a wide range of medical services:
- It could be as simple as a Paramedic with a Jump Bag and the essentials.
- Or, it could be a more mobile option, such as a container with a Nurse or Paramedic, a consulting room with more equipment and consumables to handle more serious accidents.
- Or, it could be an even more intricate setup with the ability to do advanced procedures and specialists with a broader scope of practice.
Container Clinics offer flexible options for remote projects.
What is the main purpose of a Clinic?
These clinics are primarily used as a way to deal with workplace injury.
The secondary objective is early intervention through patrolling the job site to provide education and training. Education and training could be in the form of first aid, CPR Training, health awareness campaigns, or specific to your site. For example, our team recently travelled to the DRC to conduct specialized Cyanide training.
It is imperative to know that it is the needs of your project will determine the format of your mining clinic and our staff at ATA International Holdings are equipped to assist you in assessing your needs and suggesting the best fit for your mine.
Most importantly, the goal of the clinic should be to treat injured / sick employees and get them back to work as soon as possible, no matter what the configuration may be.
Are there Flexible Options?
In an industry that is unpredictable, having a flexible clinic is key. It allows the clinic to adjust to the changing needs of a project. As a project moves from explorative to an active mine, it is important that your medical team and clinic adjust to reflect the risks on-site.
It is extremely important to note that your medical provider should be able to custom-build a clinic and medical team to meet the requirements on-site. At ATA International Holdings we are able to offer the following;
- Medical kits from first aid to life support
- A modular or a shipping container-style clinic, which is a great fit for projects with growth
- A mobile treatment center – a four-wheel-drive clinic that allows medical providers to treat patients inside for on-site treatment at your project location
We are in the process of creating a new product, Clinic in a Box. This Clinic in a Box will essentially be the starter kit for new clinics and covers will include all the basic equipment and consumables with the option to add on modules as the project demands increase. With our ‘flat-pack’ design concept in the making, deployment of our Clinic in the Box will be seamless, giving you the confidence in knowing that your employees are protected. You want more than just “good enough” for your employees, when they are working in the most dangerous environments they deserve exceptional patient care from your on-site clinic.
Contact ATA International Holdings for a virtual meeting and expert assessment of your project site
Trevor Justus, an esteemed Managing Director and founding partner with over 15 years of experience, holds a pivotal role at ATA International. With unwavering dedication, Trevor directs and controls the company’s operations, providing strategic guidance and direction to ensure the achievement of targets and objectives. In addition to his professional endeavours, Trevor leads a captivating personal life as a committed Game and Cattle Farmer. His passion for agriculture and sustainable practices serves as a testament to his deep connection to the land and business growth. As a visionary leader and consummate professional, Trevor Justus significantly contributes to ATA International’s success, leaving an indelible mark on the business.
