There were no environmental incidents reported for the period. During the year under review, the Health and Occupational Hygiene Laboratory determined fallout dust levels and took background noise measurements. It was noted that sound pressure levels (SPL) from operational activities did not exceed those prescribed for rural areas (45 deciBels).
The limits for particulate matter, as prescribed by the South African National Standards 1929, indicate an allowable daily average limit of 75µg/m3 (0.075mg/m3). The levels measured at the operation did not exceed the above limit and averaged from 0.021mg/m3 to 0.04mg/m3 during the study.
The mine has also implemented a dust, noise and blast vibration measurement programme to aid in dealing with community concerns. The results of all measurements taken were below the maximum allowable levels for residential and industrial areas.
Surface and groundwater levels continued to be monitored within the mine’s area of responsibility. The results were all within the accepted standard allowed. Somkhele’s application for a water use licence has been approved by Department of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA).
Reviews of closure cost provisions at 30 June 2010 were conducted by an independent consultant and were submitted to the DMR.
The mine’s Environmental Management Programme is being revised for submission to the DMR in light of the changes that have occurred since the completion of the original environmental review. An application for a water use licence has been submitted as required by the Department of Water and Environmental Affairs (DWEA). In the meantime, the mine operates in terms of its original permits.
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