Noge, Gosiame2025-10-132025https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7112-6060http://hdl.handle.net/10394/43660Master of Arts in Industrial Sociology, North-West University-- Potchefstroom CampusThis study explored the working conditions of women employed in mining operations at a platinum mine in South Africa. Historically, the mining industry has been male-dominated, and women’s employment in underground work in mines was legally restricted by the International Labour Organization’s labour standard titled Underground Work (Women) Convention, 1935 (No. 45), which was replaced by the Safety and Health in Mines Convention, 1995 (No. 176). Countries that ratified Convention No. 176 moved towards gender-neutral policies that focused on ensuring the health and safety of all workers in all operations, including women. In South Africa, particularly, the Employment Equity Act of 1998, the Mine Health and Safety Act of 1996, the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act of 2002 and the Mining Charters of 2004, 2010 and 2018 have gradually facilitated women’s inclusion in the mining industry. Although women’s participation in the South African mining industry has significantly increased, the mining industry remains a challenging environment for women; they face various barriers, which are often indicated as reasons why women leave the industry and why mining companies do not meet their set targets as stipulated by the Mining Charter. This study investigated the ‘gender problem’ in mining companies through feminist theory and feminist treatments of organisations and change. This study employed a quantitative research methodology guided by an objectivist ontology, an empiricist epistemology and a positivist research paradigm. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire administered to women working in mining operations at a selected platinum mine in South Africa. The questionnaire comprised both closed- and open-ended questions, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of the factors affecting women’s working conditions. The data was analysed using exploratory factor analysis, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics to identify the key trends and relationships. The data yielded significant insights regarding respondents’ demographics and various aspects of their working conditions. Of the 200 questionnaires distributed, 196 were returned, indicating a high response rate. The majority of respondents were black African women aged 30 to 39, predominantly married with children and possessing secondary education. Most had 11 to 20 years of underground work experience, motivated by unemployment, job insecurity and the pursuit of stable employment. While the mining company provided housing, medical aid, pensions and maternity benefits, it was deficient in travel allowances, childcare support and other essential benefits, suggesting a need for enhanced support for female employees, particularly those with young children. Despite the implementation of effective gender sensitive policies, awareness of the company’s professional development programmes for women was limited, indicating a necessity for improved support for women’s career advancement. Women perceived themselves as physically capable but noted specific physiological challenges, highlighting the need for tailored support systems. Health and safety measures were generally adequate; however, there remains a need for gender-sensitive personal protective equipment and maternity-related support, particularly for underground workers. Regarding workplace practices, issues of gender discrimination and sexual harassment were prevalent, which have a negative impact on women’s experiences. This study significantly contributes to the academic discourse on gender equity in the mining industry by highlighting women’s unique challenges in this traditionally male-dominated industry. Providing empirical insights and recommendations equips policymakers and industry leaders with strategies to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment.enMining CharterMining industryMining operationsSouth AfricaWomenWorking conditionsThesis