The Aggregate & Sand Producers Association of Southern Africa (Aspasa) has introduced a new set of policies, which relate to all aspects of surface mining operations, for members to uphold.

Aspasa director Nico Pienaar says the code documents good, ethical behaviour and says that, while most member companies adhere to these anyway, it gives the association recourse in the event of unethical behaviour being reported.

Among the most significant conducts addressed by the new policies is an agreement on the part of the miner to not mislead customers about a product, to charge a fair price and to supply products timeously and in conformity with the South African National Standards.

The association also asks of its members to provide a ready means for a customer to lodge complaints about the quality of a product and not to permit or condone any acts of unethical behaviour.

As far as obligations to suppliers are concerned, Aspasa requires its members to inform a supplier of any unethical behaviour by the supplier’s personnel and meet obligations with suppliers and creditors on time, or take into account the interest of suppliers and creditors when requesting extension of payment terms.

Further, the association’s latest policies involve members having regard to cultural sensitivities and individual dignity and promoting nondiscriminatory practices, while ensuring fair remuneration and reward for employees.

Aspasa has always urged healthy competition in the industry and requires members to refrain from dishonest allegations regarding a competitor or its products.

The association also reiterates its members’ obligations to refrain from illegal mining and to pay due regard to safety and occupational and public health.

The association’s members undergo an Aspasa Initiating Health and Safety Education audit regularly.

In terms of the environment, Aspasa requires its members to comply with the country’s environmental legislation and those conditions imposed by mining permits and rights.

The association will be monitoring compliance with requirements for certain listed activities in terms of the National Environmental Management Act during its audits.