Mining industry fatality statistics: the problem of tailings facility fatalities

Abstract

The International Council of Mining and Metals annually publishes statistics on fatalities occurring in its member companies. It's most recent report identities a downward trend over eleven years which excludes the 270 fatalities stemming from the 2019 Brumadino tailings disaster. This paper discusses the reasons for the exclusion and proposes a better way to handle the multiple fatalities that can occur as a result of rare but catastrophic events. Show more