The Influence of the physical underground workplace conditions on the production at a deep level gold mine

Abstract

The general aim of this research study was to determine whether the physical underground conditions have an influence on the production output at a deep-level gold mine. This type of study has never been conducted within this particular environment, and, as such, a valuable contribution could be made to ensure more effective performance results within this context. A questionnaire was administered to test the responses of 150 employees. A response rate of 91% was obtained for the questionnaires. The data showed a statistically significant, positive relationship between underground conditions and the production output. The data showed that there were some significant differences for the various demographic groups, as well as their perceptions of the factors. Limitations within the study were identified and recommendations for future research were made.