Responsible Gold/Silver

The exploitation of human labor in many mining regions has been a case of serious concern. In these regions, especially rural areas, children are often put to work in mines. Miners, including these enslaved children, often work unreasonably long hours for years on end for a meagre pay. The horrors of rape in these mines are huge. These practices involving the exploitation of workers are done on the basis of race and community. These miners work in highly unsafe conditions, often without training, safety equipment, or proper tools. Besides being heavily underpaid, many miners work in extremely hazardous conditions. Small-scale mining is often conducted without training. Miners may lack safety equipment and the proper tools which could cause them to easily die or be injured in landslides, mine collapses, and other harmful accidents. Mining also contributes to other public health problems. The sex trade thrives in many mining towns, leading to the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Just cause children are considered an easy source of cheap labor, they are regularly employed in the mining industry so that they can be exploited almost free of cost. Not only because of the cheap labor but also because of the strength and immunity they have as young individuals, they are used for work that requires immense power. Whereas compared to adults, they are much more prone to injuries and accidents. Physically challenging tasks like digging with heavy shovels or carrying bags full of gravel can leave them to hurt or in pain. Because of their small size, children also may be asked to perform the most dangerous activities such as entering thin mineshafts or plunging into pits where landsides may be of high risk to their lives.