Gold Fields’ South Deep Gold Mine near Westonaria has received permission from the Department of Health to provide on-site vaccinations until Saturday, July 31 to all employees and contractors who wish to be vaccinated.

Occupational Medical Practitioner at South Deep, Dr Khutso Setati said the vaccination of the workforce is currently underway in line with the necessary medical and administrative protocols.

He said the vaccines are the first of a two-dose regime, with the second dose planned to be administered in the prescribed time period.

We have undertaken extensive education and communication efforts over the past months, and are confident that a significant number of eligible employees and contractors will avail themselves of this opportunity.

“We recognise that we are privileged to have been afforded the opportunity to provide vaccinations to our employees. While we are not in a position to commence vaccinating family members and members of our communities at the moment, by choosing to get vaccinated now our employees have the opportunity to protect themselves, their families, their colleagues and their communities, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.

“Getting vaccinated can mean the difference between life and death. We call on all South Deep employees to be courageous leaders for their families, their communities, our mine and our country by doing the right thing and getting vaccinated.”

South Deep had already vaccinated 1 628 of its people, which is just over 38% of the workforce.