The Corporate and Social Responsibility of the Group falls into two areas, Health, Safety & Environment and Community.  Kazakhmys recognises that the highest practicable standards of health, safety, environmental and community practices are vital to its success and are a key responsibility of all employees.

The Board has a Health, Safety and Environment Committee which is responsible for setting standards, monitoring performance and providing guidance on health, safety and environment matters to operational management.  A Group HSE manager reports to the Committee.

The Board believes that a safe working environment will be more productive and profitable and that work related incidents are avoidable. 

Since listing in 2005, a series of audits on safety issues has been carried out by internal and external specialists, leading to a series of programmes to improve safety practices.  This has included accidents related to falls of ground, falls from height, and accidents related to moving parts and electrical equipment.  Alongside this is a general training programme, including the construction of several training centres, to create a stronger 'safety first' working culture.

There has been noticeable improvement, with fatalities reducing from 37 in 2005, to 32 in 2006 and 23 in 2007.  But zero fatalities remains the target.

In addition to complying with all local regulations the Board would like to move all operations to OHSAS 18001. LTIFR measurements are on a standard international basis.

All employees receive a medical on joining and regular health checks.  The Group runs extensive medical services, from on site medical rooms to sanatoriums.

Kazakhmys aims to carry out its activities in an environmentally friendly manner, focusing on the responsible use and management of water, energy, and waste, minimising air pollution and appropriate land rehabiliation. 

Monitoring is carried out of major emissions, in accordance with state legislation, and includes water and energy use, gas emissions and environmental recycling. 

A baseline environmental audit is being carried out to identify and address major issues and performance targets will be developed with assistance from external consultants.  It is intended to upgrade environmental management in accordance with ISO14001.

Kazakhmys is acknowledged for having the strongest Social Programme in Kazakhstan, with spending of around $100 million in 2007.  This included the provision of health, education and social facilities, for workers, their families and the communities around our operations, as well as assistance in local infrastructure projects.