Ensuring the Protection, Health, and Safety of Mine Workers and Communities

About the Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate

The Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate (MHSI) was established under the Mine Health and Safety Act, 1996 (Act No. 29 of 1996), as amended, to fulfil the constitutional mandate of the Department of Mineral Resources to safeguard the health and safety of mine employees and surrounding communities affected by mining operations.

The Inspectorate is headed by the Chief Inspector of Mines, who also serves as Chairperson of the Boards of the Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC) and the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA).

Organisational Structure

The Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate operates through a Head Office and ten regional offices located across South Africa’s nine provinces. Each regional office is led by a Principal Inspector of Mines, who reports to a Deputy Chief Inspector of Mines.

The structure ensures effective oversight, enforcement, and coordination of health and safety regulations across all mining operations nationwide.

Regional Divisions

Central & Coastal Regions
  • Eastern Cape
  • Gauteng
  • KwaZulu-Natal
  • Northern Cape
Central & North-Eastern Regions
  • Free State
  • Limpopo
  • Mpumalanga
Western Regions
  • North West (Klerksdorp)
  • North West (Rustenburg)
  • Western Cape

Leadership & Oversight

The Chief Inspector of Mines provides strategic direction to the Inspectorate, ensuring the consistent application of safety standards and the implementation of corrective measures where non-compliance is identified.

The Inspectorate collaborates closely with the Mine Health and Safety Council, Mining Qualifications Authority, and industry stakeholders to promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement across the sector.