Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in British Columbia

The Mines Act and the Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in British Columbia (the Code) protect workers and the public through requirements that reduce the health, safety and environmental risks related to mining activities.

On this page:

• Latest revisions to the Code
• Purpose of the Code
• Code Review Committee

Latest revisions to the Code

In June 2022, the Committee unanimously recommended three revisions to the Code to improve safety at B.C. mines. The revisions ensure the Code remains current with changing technology and standards.

These three revisions come into force November 30, 2022:

1. Autonomous and semi-autonomous machine systems (ASAMS)

New Code requirements for the use of ASAMS on B.C. mines. Proponents must submit an Autonomous Mining Project Management Plan prior to using ASAMS on a mine. This revision removes the need for a permit amendment and clarifies how Code requirements for mobile equipment apply to ASAMS.

• BC Guideline for Safe Mobile Autonomous Mining (PDF, 3.8MB)

2. Reportable incidents (previously dangerous occurrences)

Updated Code requirements for reportable incidents. This revision includes updates to:

• Types of reportable incidents
• Reporting timelines
• Investigation report requirements and submission timeline

This revision also introduces a new requirement for proponents to engage with Indigenous Nations on select reportable incidents.

• BC Guideline for Reportable Incidents for Mines (PDF, 11.5MB) - currently under review

3. Gender neutral language and universal washrooms

This revision removes gender-based language from the Code. This revision also introduces a new requirement for mines to have a universal washroom facility (for new mines and significant renovations to existing mines).

• Gender-neutral Language and Universal Washroom Facilities Guideline (PDF, 226KB)

More information on the 2022 Code revisions

• Code Revisions Summary Table 2022 (PDF, 263KB)
• Order in Council No. 646 November 30, 2022 (PDF, 836KB)

Purpose of the Code

The purpose of the Code is to:

1. Protect employees and all other persons from undue risks to their health and safety arising out of or in connection with activities at mines.
2. Safeguard the public from risks arising out of or in connection with activities at mines.
3. Protect and reclaim the land and watercourses affected by mining.
4. Monitor the extraction of mineral and coal resources and ensure maximum extraction with a minimum of environmental disturbance, taking into account sound engineering practice and prevailing economic conditions.

Code Review Committee

The Code Review Committee (the Committee) reviews the Code and makes revisions every year. The Committee has equal representation from Indigenous communities, labour and industry. The Committee ensures that the Code stays current with changing technology, standards, and other legislation.

More about the Code Review Committee