General News & Comment (May 16, 1988)

The Nugget mine near Salmo, B.C., which boasts an impressive record of no accidents and no time lost, was awarded the 1987 Safety Award by the West Kootenay Mine and Industrial Association. Ralph McGinn, newly-appointed chief inspector of mines for the province, presented the award to Ed Lawrence, Nugget’s chief consultant.

“If you have a crew that has a good stable family life — that’s very important,” Lawrence said as he accepted the award. “Let’s take our hats off to the ladies.”

Lawrence also credited mine inspectors, who he said are very helpful and practical professionals. Nugget Mines is engaged in drift, raise, and sub-level development and a production date has not yet been determined.

The previous award for zero accidents and no time lost was in 1978 at the H.B. Mine. The 1986 trophy was awarded to Taurus Gold.

Mike Babpty, consulting engineer and general manager for Dragoon Resources, addressed small mine safety as the keynote speaker. Small mine operators have “one of the most dangerous occupations,” he said. “We employ people who look after themselves — small mines rarely have the privilege of a trainer.”

“Accidents rarely go without warning or track records. Look for signs of poor quality, talk to your work force — there are no easy answers,” he emphasized.