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 April 2024, the Committee unanimously recommended several important revisions to the Code to improve safety at B.C. mines. The revisions ensure the Code remains current with changing technology and standards.

These revisions came into force April 29, 2024:

1. Emerging Technology

This version introduces a safety framework for the use of “emerging technologies” on mine sites in B.C.  
Emerging technologies have inherent hazards and include autonomous and semi-autonomous systems, battery electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, hydrogen powered vehicles, and trolley-assist technology. The updates to the Code enable proper regulation and the safe implementation of those technologies at mine sites.  

• BC Code Guidance Document: Emerging Technology Implementation for Mines (April 2024) (PDF, 938KB)

2. Occupational Health

This version updates the Code’s allowable threshold limits for diesel particulate matter, formaldehyde, welding fumes, asbestos, and coal dust which are currently outdated, to minimize worker exposure to harmful contaminants. This version aligns with the most up to date version of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) standard.

• BC Code Guidance Document: Occupational Health Revisions to Part 2 (April 2024) (PDF, 800KB) 

3. Part 10 – TSFs and Dams 

This version updates and clarifies requirements and definitions related to tailings storage facilities (TSFs) and dams to ensure they are clear and consistent with other jurisdictions and high regulatory standards for the mining sector.

• BC Code Guidance Document: Part 10 - TSFs and Dams (June 2024) (PDF, 3.37MB)
• Annual Facility Performance Report Assurance Statement (PDF, 383KB)

4. Safeguarding of Machinery and Equipment

This version creates definitions and updates the language related to safeguarding moving parts of machinery or equipment.

• BC Code Guidance Document: Safeguarding of Machinery and Equipment for Mines (April 2024) (PDF, 3.2MB) 

5. Worker Safety When Working Near Water

This version updates provisions to address hazards related to worker safety when working near water, including the operation of mobile equipment near or on the water.

• BC Code Guidance Document: Worker Safety When Working Near Water for Mines (April 2024) (PDF, 2.3MB) 

More information on the 2024 Code revisions

• Code Revisions Summary Table 2024 (PDF, 1.2MB)
• Order in Council No. 214 April 29, 2024 (PDF, 1.1MB)

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