One of Kinross’ core values is Putting People First, which is why Kinross Fort Knox recently formed a fire brigade team comprised of 20 employees from emergency services teams who have been trained in managing hazards associated with fire safety. The team was created to supplement the local municipal fire departments, ensuring there is no delayed response time due to the remoteness of the mine or difficulty accessing specific locations.
Employees from each mine shift were given training on fire prevention and extinguishing, identifying potential causes of fires, fire hose and breathing-apparatus training, operating a fire truck, and First Aid associated with smoke inhalation.
According to Kinross, the fire brigade teams play an important role in loss prevention, risk management, and keeping both people and assets safe. Focusing on safety is the right thing to do, but it is also good for your business.
Fort Knox is an open-pit gold mine located near the city of Fairbanks, Alaska, in one of the state’s largest gold producing areas. It is mined by conventional open-pit methods, with ore processed at a mill and heap leach facility.
In 2018, Kinross was the eighth NMA member company to receive independent certification under its CORESafety® system. Kinross’ efforts have more than proven that Putting People First is a true core value for the company and it goes above and beyond to make sure every employee returns home safe and healthy every day.