This week’s safety meeting reminded me how something as “routine” as barring can be the difference between life and death underground. Barring is often one of the first tasks we perform at the start of a shift — but it’s also one of the most underestimated. In gold mining, especially in South African operations, most ground-related accidents are traced back to substandard barring. The purpose of a barring buddy isn’t just to stand by — it’s to be your second pair of eyes, ensuring your safety while you ensure the ground’s stability. It’s teamwork in its purest form: one focuses on the rock, the other on the risk. From our safety officer’s reminders to daily observations, I’ve learned that the best production starts with a safe workplace. The time spent barring properly is never wasted — it’s an investment in life itself. Let’s all remember: No bar, no start. What are some of the small safety practices on your mine that make the biggest difference? 💬 #MiningSafety #GoldMining #ZVENIA #ProfessionalGoldDigger #WomenInMining #GroundControl #SafeBarSafeStart #SouthAfricanMining