South Africa’s Deep Mines Grapple With Thousands Returning to Work
- Mines can start operating with 100% of workers from June 1
- Covid-19 outbreaks shutter operations amid new virus protocols
Miners gather in the Wonderkop settlement in Marikana, near Rustenburg, on May 15.
Photographer: Michele Spatari/AFP via Getty Images
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When South African miners are allowed to recall all their workers as lockdown restrictions ease further on Monday, full production will remain elusive as the pandemic upends operating practices.
Social distancing, screening and testing will hamper the country’s deep-level mines, which have been operating with half their workforce since a five-week shutdown ended at the beginning of May. Virus flare-ups are temporarily closing individual gold, platinum and chrome operations. This new normal could curb output and erode profitability.