GSMB keeps an eye on metal quarries

by Ananda Kannangara

The Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) is concerned with the operational systems of metal quarries islandwide and said 60 percent have failed to provide adequate safety measures to its labour force. The GSMB statistics reveal that over 1000 large, medium and small scale quarries are currently in operation in all parts of the country, excluding in the Northern and Eastern provinces.

According to statistics, a large number of metal quarries are located in Kurunegala and Gampaha Districts and also in Kaduwela in the Western Province.

Nearly 25,000 families are engaged in the metal crushing industry. In addition, a large number of elderly men and women are also working in quarries on a daily paid basis.

GSMB, Director General Anil Peiris told the Sunday Observer that officials, including engineers make regular visits to the quarries to inspect the environmental problems in the sites, metal crushing systems, blasting methods and also the most needed hygienic conditions at work sites.

They have also focused attention towards inadequate safety measures for labourers, who are working at quarry sites and said that such a pathetic situation has resulted in the deaths of nearly five to ten workers every year and also serious injuries.

Peiris also said the owners of only 40 percent metal quarries have in fact provided safety equipment such as helmets, gloves, boots, ear mufflers and eye guards to workers and urged the owners of all other metal quarries to do the needful for the safety of workers and also their dependents.