Protecting Health in Mining Communities
Mining and metals operations often take place in regions where communicable diseases are prevalent. This creates both a risk and a responsibility: the industry can—and should—play a proactive role in combatting these diseases, protecting workers, and strengthening community resilience.
Diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria remain among the world’s leading causes of death and disability. Today, more than 38 million people live with HIV. In 2019 alone, tuberculosis claimed 1.4 million lives—including over 200,000 people also living with HIV. That same year, malaria affected an estimated 229 million people, causing 409,000 deaths.
In many parts of the world, mining operations are on the frontlines of this public health challenge. In certain regions, exposure to HIV/AIDS is especially high among the workforce. The interdependence between operational health and community wellbeing is undeniable—and responsible companies recognise their obligation to manage these impacts comprehensively.
The business case for action
Tackling communicable diseases isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also good business.
Research shows that companies investing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of communicable diseases experience a range of benefits, including:
- Lower employee turnover.
- Reduced healthcare costs and legal liabilities.
- Improved productivity and profitability.
- Stronger, more diverse workforces.
- Improved employee morale and trust.
- Access to international finance and development support.
- Strengthened reputation and a more secure social licence to operate.
For companies operating in vulnerable regions, these aren’t just ‘nice-to-have’ outcomes—they are central to risk management and long-term value creation.
Driving good practice
ICMM supports an integrated approach to communicable disease management. Our Good Practice Guidance on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria brings together leading strategies from global health bodies, peer industries, and ICMM members. It promotes cross-sector collaboration and a unified approach to health in mining regions.
The mining industry has also faced other major health threats—from the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa to the global impact of COVID-19. These events highlighted just how quickly infectious diseases can affect not only local communities, but also global supply chains and investor confidence.
In response, ICMM developed the COVID-19 Building Forward Better Framework—a practical guide designed to help companies identify actions across three key pillars:
- Lives—safeguarding health and safety
- Livelihoods—supporting income and employment
- Learning—promoting education and skills development
This framework supports companies in designing responses that are rooted in operational strengths but oriented towards long-term community resilience.
A long-term commitment to health resilience
Communicable diseases will remain a persistent challenge in many mining regions. Mining companies have the ability—not just the responsibility—to lead.
By embedding disease prevention and health promotion into core business strategy, the industry can protect its people, support host communities, and contribute meaningfully to global health security.
