The Health & Safety (H&S) Program is a key element in PDAC’s strategic priority of responsible exploration. The mandate of the program is to build the capacity of companies exploring in Canada to improve their health & safety performance and achieve zero harm.

The three core activities of the H&S program include the annual health and safety survey undertaken in partnership with the Association for Mineral Exploration, an annual H&S short course offered at the Convention and outreach to various industry conferences on the topic of H&S.

In partnership with the Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) and the Canadian Diamond Drilling Association (CDDA), PDAC develops an annual survey to provide a snapshot of the leading indicators that are related to environment, health and safety, as well as other incidents throughout the year. Survey results and other key findings are presented as a report that is available to all members and non-members.

The information you provide PDAC and AME in the confidential health and safety survey will enable us to compile a comprehensive annual safety report, safety guidelines and other resources. Your organization becomes eligible for Gold, Silver or Bronze Safe Day Everyday Awards by participating in the survey.

Survey

The PDAC also offers a Field Safety Pocket Guide. The document is available online and is free for use in your exploration or mining operation. The guide is available in three languages: English, French, and Spanish. 

Field Safety Pocket Guide

These infographics dive into essential workplace safety, covering hazards like silica and asbestos. You can find practical tips on using engineering controls, PPE, and safety practices to prevent respiratory risks and other health concerns, helping you stay informed and protected.

Healthandsafety infographics

The field-oriented health and safety (H&S) course is designed to provide participants of all experience levels with a strong understanding of the typical H&S risks in mineral exploration. Eleven years running, the course has recently been redesigned to emphasize the real-life applications of H&S tools like risk assessment and root cause analysis, with particular emphasis on high-risk activities including drilling and helicopter use. 

Health Safety Education

Driving Responsible Exploration (DRE) is an online information resource to help companies exploring for minerals improve their social, environmental, and health and safety performance. The DRE suite of resources include the Principles & Guidance Notes booklet, plus three comprehensive Toolkits encompassing health and safety, environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Dre toolkits web page header3a6b35d4737861ad9066ff000004e9e6
Jeff Killeen
Director, Policy & Programs