An Innovative Workforce Accommodation Strategy: Key to Attracting Skilled Labour for Remote Mining Sites

Written by Ken MacLean, civeo.com 

Editor’s note: Reprinted with permission from Civeo. For more content on workforce accommodations, visit  https://civeo.com/about/blog/ 

The Canadian mining industry is facing a significant challenge: attracting and retaining skilled labour to live and work at remote project sites. As mining operations push further into isolated regions to tap into valuable resources, project owners increasingly realize that a strong workforce accommodations strategy is not just an incentive but a necessity. By providing comfortable, well-equipped, and appealing living conditions, mining companies can significantly enhance their ability to attract and retain skilled tradespeople in an increasingly competitive labour market. 

The challenge: a declining pool of skilled labour

The mining industry in Canada has been experiencing a concerning trend—a declining pool of skilled labour. According to the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR), the sector is projected to face a significant shortage of workers in the coming years. The Council estimates that by 2030, the Canadian mining industry will need to hire approximately 80,000 workers to replace retirees and meet the demand for new positions. 

Also contributing to the projected labour shortage is a declining interest in mining-related careers among younger generations who may be attracted to industries perceived as more stable or less physically demanding.

The nature of mining work, often involving long hours working in harsh, remote environments, has historically made it difficult to attract new talent. The challenge is even more pronounced at remote mining sites, where isolation and lack of amenities can deter potential tradespeople from living and working away from home. 

To address these issues, mining companies must innovate in their approach to workforce accommodations by not just offering basic amenities, but a lifestyle that can support the holistic well-being and productivity of their people.

The role of workforce accommodations in attracting talent

In today’s competitive labour market, skilled tradespeople have choices, and they are increasingly prioritizing opportunities that offer competitive salaries and a high quality of life while on the job. This priority is especially true for younger workers, who place a premium on work-life balance and well-being.

Workers in remote locations with access to comfortable living conditions, recreation facilities, and quality dining experiences are more likely to stay with an employer longer. This, in turn, reduces turnover rates and the associated costs of recruitment and job training.

A strong workforce accommodation strategy can also enhance a company’s reputation in the industry. Companies known for taking care of their workers are more likely to attract top talent and maintain a positive relationship with labour unions and local communities.

In contrast, poor accommodations can lead to dissatisfaction, decreased productivity, and higher turnover rates. Workers who feel their basic needs are not being met are more likely to leave, even if the pay is favourable. This can be particularly problematic in the mining industry, where the cost of recruiting and training new skilled workers is high, and the loss of experienced personnel can lead to operational delays and safety concerns.

Essential services and amenities in workforce accommodations

So, what should mine operators focus on when planning their workforce accommodations strategy? According to Canadian-based Civeo, one of the world’s largest integrated providers of workforce accommodations, project owners should consider the holistic lifestyle they provide for their people while they are away from the job site. 

“In our experience, project owners operating in remote regions should be investing in an accommodations experience that offers more than the basics,” says Darren Ehman, VP Operations for Civeo. “People make projects go, and those who excel at attracting skilled labour to remote regions recognize the value in services and amenities that support their workers’ physical and mental well-being.”  

Some of the features that employers should consider are:

• Comfortable living quarters: Workers should have access to private or semi-private rooms with comfortable beds, proper ventilation, and adequate storage space. Noise abatement and privacy is a significant factor to ensure workers can rest and recharge during their off-hours.
• culinary delight: Providing a variety of meal options that are refreshed over time can avoid menu fatigue for those working at site for extended periods. Workers should have access to fresh, nutrient-rich food that caters to diverse dietary needs and preferences. Dining facilities should be clean, comfortable, and conducive to social interaction.
• connection to family and friends: Staying connected with family and friends is a priority for those working in remote locations. Providing reliable internet access is key to maintaining ties to the outside world and reduces the sense of isolation.
• Fitness and leisure amenities: Access to fitness centres, sports facilities, games areas, and entertainment can significantly enhance after-hours quality of life for workers. These spaces provide an outlet for stress and promote physical and mental wellbeing.
• Mental health support: Mental health is a fundamental component of overall well-being. Mining companies should consider providing access to mental health professionals, counselling services, and stress management programs to support their workforce.
• Cultural and social activities: Organizing cultural events, social gatherings, and other recreational activities can help foster a sense of community among workers.
• Travel management: Depending on the origin of travel, managing transportation itineraries to get to and from the remote project site can be stress-inducing. Having all travel logistics centrally managed for your workers can eliminate this burden.    

When workers are provided with comfortable living conditions and access to a range of lifestyle amenities, they are more likely to view their employer favourably, stay longer, and perform better. This, in turn, reduces turnover rates, enhances productivity, contributes positively to safety performance, and ultimately contributes to the overall success of the mining operation. In an industry where human capital is an essential determinant of success, a comprehensive approach to workforce accommodations is not just an incentive but a strategic imperative.