The mining industry has made significant strides in improving safety standards over the years. However, one critical gap remains largely overlooked – personal protective equipment (PPE) designed specifically for women.
For decades, PPE has been developed based on male body standards, with the assumption that resizing or slightly modifying existing gear is sufficient. In reality, this approach fails to address the fundamental differences in body structure, movement and comfort requirements.
Women in mining continue to operate in environments where their protective gear does not fully support their physical needs. In high-risk environments, poor fit is not just inconvenient – it can directly impact safety and performance.
Why this matters more than ever
As the mining industry evolves, there has been a growing increase in the participation of women across various roles. However, the availability of suitable PPE has not kept pace with this shift.
Ill-fitting PPE can lead to reduced mobility, increased fatigue, discomfort affecting concentration and compromised safety in critical situations. PPE is not simply a compliance requirement – it is a frontline safety system. When it does not adequately serve all workers, it creates operational risk.
Introducing Dah Sol Projects
Dah Sol Projects is a South African-based mining support services and PPE solutions company focused on delivering purpose-built solutions for women in mining.
The company specialises in mining support operations, including activities such as vamping, reclaiming, rail upgrading, equipping and mining in white areas, supported by a strong understanding of operational environments.
Alongside its operational capability, Dah Sol Projects is focused on addressing a critical gap in the industry by providing PPE designed specifically for women. Rather than modifying existing designs, the company develops solutions that consider body structure, comfort, mobility and real working conditions.
This focused approach allows Dah Sol Projects to operate with both technical relevance and a clear safety-driven purpose within the mining industry.
Organisations that invest in PPE designed specifically for women are not only improving safety outcomes but also enhancing workforce performance and supporting a more inclusive working environment.
Leadership behind Dah Sol Projects
Matswatswe Uerginia Nchabeleng is a Mining Engineering Honours graduate from the University of the Witwatersrand with over eight years of experience in mining operations. She is a co-founder and co-director of Dah Sol Projects and is currently pursuing Mine Overseer’s and Mine Manager’s Certificates of Competency. She works closely with her co-directors to drive strategic direction and deliver practical, industry-relevant solutions within the mining sector.
Letlhogonolo Solomon Setlhapelo brings over 26 years of experience in the mining industry, contributing deep operational knowledge and leadership insight.
Tefo Bright Kgalalelo has over seven years of experience in accounting and administration within a professional environment, supporting the business through strong financial, administrative and client-management capabilities.
Driving change through procurement
Dah Sol Projects operates within a strict compliance framework aligned with national legislation, industry standards and client-specific requirements. Safety, performance and ethical business practices remain central to its operations.
Improving safety in mining is not only about policies – it is about making informed procurement decisions.
Organisations that invest in PPE designed specifically for women are not only improving safety outcomes but also enhancing workforce performance and supporting a more inclusive working environment.
Dah Sol Projects is committed to delivering practical, compliant and innovative solutions that address real industry challenges.
Contact Dah Sol Projects
071 502 1724 | 073 006 1264
dahsoll.projects@gmail.com
