ORIGINS OF THE TRUST

certification and payment) then takes place centrally at the Trust office and with the Founders’ Agent.

the qualifying GOLD mines during the qualifying period between 12 2019 (bearing in mind that some mines changed ownership during considered during the periods that they were owned by the participating must have permanent lung damage from silicosis or TB that they at these mines mineworker associations, unions and government stakeholders supports mobilisation of communities to lodge claims with the Trust.

The history of silicosis in South Africa dates from the late 1880s when gold mining began. The gold was locked in quartz veins, a type of rock that also contains high concentrations of silica. Crystalised silica particles can cause significant respiratory damage if inhaled. In the earlier days of gold mining, dust control, the use of personal protective equipment, and health and safety standards were not as advanced as they are today.