Gold-mining major Gold Fields has opened a new employee housing complex, in the Glenharvie community, near its Kloof mine, as part of its R550-million, five-year housing pro- gramme.
Speaking at the event, Gold Fields CEO Nick Holland said that the wellbeing of employees was one of the company’s highest priorities.
The housing programme is part of Gold Field’s ‘24 Hours in the Life of a Gold Fields Employee in the South African Region’ programme and this complex reused jaw crusher supplierpresents an investment of R25-million.
“This is one of a number of pillars to improve the 24-hour cycle of an employee. We are focusing not only on accommodation, but also on nutrition, education amesto constuction company crusher factorynd training, recreation, which includes top-standard gyms and sports fields, and healthcare,” he added.
The complex will provide family housing for over 100 employees andused mining crushing plants for sale each house has two bedrooms, a combined lounge and kitchen, and a bathroom. The complex is also secure, which creates a safe environment for children. Each house will cost an employee about R10 a month, including water and lights.
Gold Fields acting senior clerk for the main shaft and new home owner Nomawalpo Phama told Mining Weekly that the housing has relieved her of paying rent, placed her in a safer environment and that she is excep- tionally pleased with her new house.
“We are not building these complexes because of legislation but to improve and enhance accommodation. This is not a cost, it is an investment, and I am sure that we will receive a handsome return from our employees coming to work in a better state of mind and wellbeing,” added Holland.
The company is also aiming to upgrade and dedensify high-density accommodation, such as hostels. At present, room density in the hostels has reduced to two persons to a room, a significant decline from the eight people to a room in 2006. Almost 21 000 employees are accommodated in these hostels.