Although South Africa is arguably ahead of other major mining countries in terms of bringing women into the commonly male-dominated mining workforce, the women in the industry face mammoth challenges.

The challenges range from a lack of suitable physical facilities and protective clothing to outright sexual harassment, says law firm Hogan Lovells director Debbie Ntombela, a mining law specialist.

“Despite being a transformation leader, the South African mining industry is a tough place to be, whether in the public or private sector, as one always needs to be ten times better than one’s male counterparts.”

Ntombela highlights the scepticism with which many men view women in mining. In many instances men have not really accepted that women can work in mines.

Aspects of the physical reality of mining, especially in mining operations, continue to be unwelcoming for women. “The physical conditions women work under are often inappropriate,” she says, pointing to the ablution facilities that both genders are expected to use, creating circumstances that are ripe for harassment.

She believes it could take another ten years before women are truly accepted as part and parcel of the industry, especially underground.

Despite the many challenges that women face in mining, the industry does have its attractions. Ntombela sites success as one of mining’s attractions.

Meanwhile, Hogan Lovells associate Thokozani Dlongolo says mining is a fascinating industry that can benefit greatly from the skills and involvement of women and believes it is a great time to get into mining and be part of the process of change that mining brings about.

“Mining is part of the development of South Africa. It touches our history and encapsulates virtually all of South Africa’s most pressing political and economic issues, from unemployment and poverty through labour law, to land reform and conservation through environmental law, to inequality and economic freedom through commercial law as well as criminal law,” she says.

Dlongolo, who has practised in mining law for two years, says mining and mining law may seem, to some, a daunting career choice from the outside. “It seems an intimidating industry as it can be very technical, but my experience is that people in the industry are willing to explain and help you to understand.”

This does not, however, mean that the traditional barriers confronting women in mining have tumbled, she says, adding that the hurdles facing women working in the business or commercial sector of mining and for women working underground can be substantial.

Dlongolo says the issue of personal protective equipment specifically designed for women is still an issue, specifically for women underground. In addition, sexual harassment, in various forms, is still a very real problem for women working underground and women in an office environment.

“Women often feel in the minority in the mining industry and feel that they have to prove their knowledge before being listened to, owing to the commonly held assumption that woman do not know what the industry is about.”