Further invitation to comment on the Mine Health and Safety Amendment Bill, 2026

SHE Alert 18, 24 July 2026

The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources ("the Committee") has invited interested individuals and relevant stakeholders to submit written comments and requests for oral submissions on the Mine Health and Safety Amendment Bill [B10-2026] ("the Bill").

The Bill, which was previously published for public comment by the then Department of Mineral Resources and Energy in June 2022, has now been formally introduced in Parliament. Following a briefing on the Bill, the Committee has commenced a separate parliamentary public participation process and is seeking input from interested individuals and relevant stakeholders.

This parliamentary process is distinct from the public consultation undertaken in 2022 by the Department, providing stakeholders with a further opportunity to comment and place their views before Parliament.

The Bill proposes a number of amendments to the Mine Health and Safety Act 29 of 1996, including measures aimed at:

• Streamlining administrative processes and removing obsolete provisions.

• Strengthening managerial responsibility and employer accountability.

• Restructuring the Mine Health and Safety Council.

• Dissolving the Inspectorate as a juristic person.

• Enhancing enforcement mechanisms.

• Increasing penalties for non-compliance.

Given the potential impact of the proposed amendments, we encourage mining companies and other affected stakeholders to review the Bill and consider making submissions. Comments and requests for oral submissions must be submitted by 16:00 on 22 August 2026.

For more information or assistance please contact Liezl Sterne.