Safety in Gabon’s and China’s mining industry

This paper provides a comparative analysis of safety challenges and practices in the mining industries of Gabon and China, derived from Chapter 3 of my thesis. Both countries face significant safety issues in their mining sectors, albeit in different contexts due to operational, legal, and cultural differences. Gabon's mining industry, particularly in manganese production, struggles with inconsistent enforcement of safety regulations, inadequate infrastructure, and limited safety training, especially in small-scale operations. In contrast, China's mining sector, one of the largest in the world, has made strides in improving safety through technological advancements and stricter regulations, but still grapples with high accident rates, particularly in coal mining. The paper highlights the unique approaches each country has taken to address safety concerns, including international collaborations in Gabon and technological innovations in China. It concludes that continued efforts in enforcing safety laws, investing in training, and adopting sustainable practices are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of mining workers in both countries.