Causes of Work Accidents in Indonesia's Mining Sector

The mining sector plays a vital role in supporting the national economy. However, it is also recognized as one of the most hazardous industries, with a high risk to workers' safety and health.

According to data from the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker), more than 160,000 work accidents occurred across various industries in 2024. While the frequency and severity of mining accidents have shown a decline, the number of fatal incidents remains high, reaching 49 cases.

Key Factors Contributing to Work Accidents

Based on research findings, four primary factors contribute to work accidents in the mining sector:

1. Lack of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Awareness

A worker's understanding of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) significantly influences their behavior. Workers with limited OSH knowledge are more likely to ignore safety procedures, increasing the risk of accidents.

Regular safety education, safety briefings, and repeated SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) demonstrations have been proven to improve workers' awareness and reduce accident rates.

2. Non-Compliance with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The Minister of Manpower and Transmigration Regulation No. 08 of 2010 mandates the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to safeguard workers from potential hazards. Despite this, many workers avoid wearing PPE, often citing discomfort or believing they are experienced enough to work without it.

Research shows that consistent PPE use is directly linked to a reduction in workplace accidents.

3. Inadequate Safety Training and Skill Development

Safety training aims to equip workers with essential knowledge and practical skills to maintain a safe working environment. Human error remains one of the most significant causes of accidents, and proper training helps minimize this risk.

Beyond theoretical learning, hands-on training is crucial for improving workers' capabilities, fostering safer behavior, and ensuring they are prepared to handle real-life hazards effectively.

4. Weak Supervision in the Workplace

Lack of effective supervision — whether due to negligent supervisors or remote monitoring (e.g., relying on Handy Talkies) — creates opportunities for workers to deviate from SOPs and engage in unsafe behavior.

Regular, on-site supervision has proven to significantly lower the risk of accidents by ensuring procedures are followed correctly.

Source:

• Scientific Journal of STIKES Kendal, Volume 14 No. 2, April 2024 – “Factors Contributing to Work Accidents in Indonesia's Mining Companies”
• Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) - "160 Thousand Work Accidents Throughout 2024" (Indonesia Safety Center)
• Bloomberg Technoz - "Mining Accidents in 2024: Death Toll on the Rise" (Bloomberg Technoz)