Harmony Gold Mining Co. Ltd - Harmony, Unions And Associations Sign HIV/Aids Release Date: 19/09/2002 14:30:38 Code(s): HAR Harmony Gold Mining Co. Ltd - Harmony, Unions And Associations Sign HIV/Aids
Programme
NEWS RELEASE
HARMONY, UNIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS SIGN HIV/AIDS PROGRAMME
Johannesburg, 19 September 2002 - Harmony, the National Union of Mineworkers
(NUM), the South African Equity Workers Association (SAEWA) and the United
Association of South Africa (UASA) today, pledged their support by signing an
agreement which is based on the principle that HIV/AIDS is preventable and
presents an opportunity to participants to make a real difference.
The objectives of the agreement include measures to reduce the number of
infections among employees, their families and communities. The parties will
also strive to ensure that the rights of employees living with HIV/AIDS are
upheld in compliance with existing legislation.
Harmony and the unions will aim to create a conducive environment in the
workplace in an attempt to deal with the epidemic constructively, and ensure
that the parties remain committed to the health, safety and well being of
employees.
Harmony has committed itself through the "Harmony Declares War Against HIV/AIDS"
initiative, by actively seeking a management/labour partnership with community
involvement.
"We are committed to the 2001Chamber of Mines Wage Agreement in partnership with
trade unions and associations to develop and maintain programmes to minimise the
impact of HIV/AIDS on all its stakeholders. We are jointly developing a
comprehensive strategy and programme of response which will manage HIV/AIDS in
the company and its surrounding communities," says Bernard Swanepoel, chief
executive.
Workplace interventions will include intensive education and information
programmes in respect of healthy living, HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted
Infections and Pulmonary Tuberculosis. Pre- and post test counselling,
psychotherapy and support through well-trained personnel, and the appointment of
an HIV/AIDS co-ordinator from within the ranks of the unions and associations to
assist in giving effect to agreements. Harmony has also developed its own
Multivitamin/mineral supplement, which is focussed on binding up the immune
system. This will be made available at a nominal cost to all employees and
their dependants.
The company will also provide health care for affected and infected employees.
Health care includes treatment at company hospitals and medical stations,
voluntary counselling and testing and wellness clinics.
Harmony undertakes to promote adherence to the Constitutional and legislative
rights of our employees. Harmony will not perform pre-employment HIV/AIDS
testing. We recognise that employees with HIV/AIDS are not legally required to
disclose their status. The confidentiality of all employees` or prospective
employees` medical information will consequently be maintained," concluded
Bernard.
Ends
Date: 19/09/2002 02:27:45 PM Supplied by www.sharenet.co.za
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