MATES HELPING MATES: PRIORITIZING MENTAL HEALTH IN UNDERGROUND MINES

By O. Dulguun

As of 2025, the development of the global mining industry is moving towards a new, human- centered era- that prioritizes not only the extraction of resources from deep beneath the surface, but also the mental well- being, job satisfaction, and personal development of workers.

Although advancements in technology, automation, and high-capacity systems have eased some of the physical demands of working in underground mines, international experience continues to show that the most valuable investment lies in supporting workers' mental health and psychological resilience.

Underground mining presents a unique set of challenges: confined spaces, constant noise, airborne dust, and limited oxygen circulation. These conditions can contribute to increased stress, reduced concentration, and a heightened risk of mental health issues such as depression and loneliness as well as negative coping behaviours such as tobacco, drugs, and alcohol abuse. These factors obviously affect productivity and workplace safety.

In response, recent improvements in automation, ventilation, and smart safety systems have helped ease physical strain and improve adaptability to underground conditions. At the same time, access to psychological support, professional counseling, and stress management training has become increasingly essential in protecting workers' mental well-being and sustaining long-term performance.

“MATES IN MINING" AND THE NEW CULTURE OF THE MINE

Over the past decade, leading global mining companies have come to view mental health as a cornerstone of employee productivity, workplace safety, and workforce stability- prompting real investment in psychological support systems. Numerous studies and real-world results confirm that this not only improves individual well-being but also contributes directly to organizational performance.

 A strong example is Australia's BHP (Broken Hill Proprietary) and its Employee Mental Health and Safety Program, which integrates a comprehensive set of services-including an online platform, continuous training, and access professional psychological counseling. As a result, workplace incidents decreased by 18%, while employee satisfaction increased by 25%, clearly demonstrating positive impact on safety and performance. A core focus of the program is on the early identification and management of stress. The online training component has been especially effective in extending mental health support to remote mining regions. By enabling widespread participation among employees, it has become a key driver of the program's overall success.

Another international benchmark is Rio Tinto's "MATES in Mining" program, which has been successfully implemented at mines in Australia and Canada. Originally developed in Australia, "MATES in Mining" is a peer-based support system built on the principle of "mates helping mates." Specially trained employees, known as Peer Supporters, are responsible for observing early signs of psychological distress among coworkers and offering first-line assistance by connecting them with professional support when needed.

Since its implementation, the program has led to a 40% increase in early detection of depression, a 30% improvement in team morale, and the creation of a workplace culture where mental health issues are discussed openly rather than hidden.

As a result, "MATES in Mining" has become one of the mining industry's most successful models for peer support and mental health prevention. It is now being adopted and expanded by other major companies such as BHP and Glencore, further validating its effectiveness.

Mongolia's mining sectoris alsomaking notable strides in this area. One key initiative is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at Oyu Tolgoi, which offers 24/7 access to professional, confidential psychological support for employees and their families. This service allows individuals to receive guidance during stressful times and seek help with personal issues such as loneliness, anxiety, or family challenges. The program not only enhances individual resilience but also contributes positively to the mine's safety culture and operational efficiency.

Another standout initiative at Oyu Tolgoi is the presence of on-site professional psychologists stationed directly at the mining operation. 

This approach focuses on the early identification of mental health risks and crises, offering in-person counseling and short-term on- location psychological support. Employees can voluntarily schedule sessions and receive prompt, confidential help for challenges such as communication difficulties, family issues, depression, and emotional isolation.

There's no question that supporting workers'mental health is essential- not just for the individual, but as a fundamental pillar for sustaining mining operations as a whole. Recognizing that mental well- being and adaptability are key to underground mine safety and productivity-and that these are deeply linked to workers' daily lives, families, and social connections- is crucial. Safeguarding the psychological balance and overall quality of life of the thousands while underground, working enhancing safety and efficiency, has become a vital part of sustainable development in mining. By understanding and supporting the inner thoughts, feelings, and experiences of every person in this industry, we build a bridge not only to stronger organizations but also to a thriving future for Mongolia's mining sector.

SENIOR MECHANIC E. TEMUUJIN: “THE EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM IS LEADING US TOWARD A CULTURE OF LISTENING AND UNDERSTANDING"

We interviewed E. Temuujin, Senior Mechanic at MCS Property LLC, to better understand the specific conditions and culture of his workplace.

This approach focuses on the early identification of mental health risks and crises, offering in-person counseling and short-term on- location psychological support. Employees can voluntarily schedule sessions and receive prompt, confidential help for challenges such as communication difficulties, family issues, depression, and emotional isolation.

How does the unique working environment of the underground mine affect your mental state and work productivity?

I've been working at MCS Property LLC for four years, as part of the infrastructure construction project at Oyu Tolgoi's underground mine. In the early years, 1 did feel a bit confined due to the limited space, but over time, I adapted and learned to work calmly and effectively. I've found that when things are stable at home, my productivity tends to be higher. Fortunately, our workplace offers comfortable and well- SO environmental equipped conditions, stress and difficulties are relatively minimal.

Have you experienced negative feelings such as psychological pressure, loneliness, stress, or frustration during work? How did you overcome those moments?

I'm generally a calm person by nature. When I do feel stressed, I take a few deep breaths and make an effort to connect with my team- not just about work, but also about life and lighthearted topics. These conversations help me relax, clear my mind, and let go of any negative emotions.

What moment during your time working in the underground mine has been the most uplifting and motivating for you?

There have been many inspiring moments throughout my time here. One that stands out is when I was responsible for setting up the suspension conveyor for the Naluu Am project. Seeing the entire operation run smoothly and successfully-and knowing that the adjustments I made played a role in that success-was incredibly motivating.

Watching the conveyor function steadily as planned gave me a real sense of accomplishment and pride in my work.

Oyu Tolgoi is one of the few companies in Mongolia to fully implement Rio Tinto's international safety standards. What safety principles and rules are practiced at your workplace?

We strictly follow Rio Tinto's 7 Life-Saving Rules in our daily work. Our team at MCS Property LLC is highly safety-conscious and takes responsibility seriously. When performing high-risk tasks, the use of proper protective equipment is mandatory. If someone fails to follow a safety protocol, team members immediately step in to remind them-it's part of our shared responsibility. This mindset helps ensure that we all return home safely to our families and can continue working in a healthy, sustainable way for the long term.

Have you participated in any training, counseling, or programs aimed at supporting workers' mental health, reducing stress, and improving team atmosphere? If so, how effective were they for you?

Yes, I participated in and successfully completed the Employee Assistance Program. Through this program, we learned how to listen to and support co-workers dealing with psychological challenges. I now serve as a "listener” myself, offering emotional support to others. It's a very effective initiative by building trust among employees and creating a positive, open environment where people feel safe sharing their stress and concerns.

What additional support or programs do you think should be implemented to improve the quality of psychological support for underground mine workers in the future?

The Oyu Tolgoi team does a good job of supporting employees and allowing them to take time to rest when experiencing mental stress. However, there are some individuals who, even when facing personal challenges, are hesitant to open up and tend to keep things to themselves. For those people, I believe it would be beneficial to increase the number of Colleague Supporters-team members who proactively reach out and engage with co- workers who appear withdrawn or isolated.