Kazakhmys, the Central Asian mining giant, has announced a temporary shutdown of its higher-risk production facilities across Kazakhstan for a comprehensive safety review. The company will be halting operations at various sites in stages, following a pre-determined schedule.
This decision comes after management identified a need to strengthen industrial safety and workplace protections.
Phased Shutdown Schedule:
- March 20: Eastern Jezkazgan, Abyz, Sayak, Konirat mines; Nurkazgan, Karagaylin, Balakhsh concentrating mills; repair and maintenance, construction, foundry-mechanical plant, and energy repair specialists’ management units.
- March 21: Southern Jezkazgan, Akbasta, Khachikong, Shatyrkol, Zaysan mines.
- March 22: Western Jezkazgan mine.
- March 23: Zhylandi mine.
- March 24: Jezkazgan concentrating mill.
- A review is ongoing at the Jomaart mine, which was temporarily halted earlier.
A dedicated commission has been established to meticulously inspect all operations to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Operations at each site will only resume after all identified violations are rectified and safe working conditions are confirmed.
“Kazakhmys is fully committed to the well-being of its employees,” said Arman Tleukenenov, an official representative of the Kazakhmys Corporation. “During this temporary shutdown, all employees will continue to receive their full salaries. This demonstrates our dedication to labour rights and workplace safety.”
Kazakhmys Group is determined to fortify its safety protocols across all its facilities. This initiative will involve strengthening oversight to ensure compliance with all regulations and implementing additional measures to enhance working conditions.
