Better Regulations Help Modernize B.C. Mining Code

Written by Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation

The mining and mineral exploration sector is a foundational part of British Columbia’s economy, a rich, diverse industry that provides more than 30,000 jobs in communities throughout the province. 

The Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in British Columbia is the primary vehicle for regulating the province’s mining industry. It includes regulatory standards to reduce health, safety, and environmental risks to protect workers and the public during all stages of a mine’s life: from exploration through to mine development, operation, closure, and reclamation. The code is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it reflects innovation in industry, the current environmental and social landscape, and the values of British Columbians.

In November 2022, our government was proud to implement changes recommended by the Code Review Committee made up of First Nations, labour, and industry representatives that will make mining in British Columbia safer, more efficient, and more inclusive. Key changes to the code recognize changing technology, advance safety, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and improve inclusion in the mining sector workforce.

The revised code allows autonomous and semi-autonomous machine systems in British Columbian mines without requiring operators to apply for permit amendments. This change increases efficiency and removes red tape, and it reflects the increasing role that technology plays in a modern, 21st-century mining sector.

Another important update to the code relates to the incident reporting process for mines in British Columbia. The list of reportable incidents has been expanded and clarified to reflect the state of the industry today. In keeping with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, companies operating mines will be required to consult with the First Nations on whose territory they are operating about which types of reportable incidents First Nations wish to be made aware of.

I’m especially proud that our government has brought in changes to the code that will ensure the industry is inclusive and better mirrors the British Columbia of today. To ensure a welcoming work environment for people of all genders, B.C.’s mining code is one of the first to require a universal washroom facility in new and renovated workplaces. We’ve also revised the language in the code to better represent all workers, removing gender-based language to support inclusion of everyone.

Our government understands that people need to be reflected in the language and values of today’s modern society. The revisions to the mining code are more than simply a series of important process improvements; collectively, they build a stronger code that better reflects the people who keep the industry thriving. 

British Columbia’s mining sector has always strived to be forward-thinking and modern. These changes to the mining code reflect that spirit, as well as the diverse workforce that will keep the industry growing through the 21st century.