Social Responsibility

In addition to the full time medical team at Stratoni, Hellas Gold has two Rescue Teams (1 underground and 1 surface) each consisting of 10 volunteers.  In the event of an emergency they are well prepared to conduct efficient and timely rescue missions.

Between October 2009 and June 2010, weekly 2 hour training sessions were held for all the volunteers. In addition a week’s intensive training was organised by a group of rescue specialists. 

Both teams have learned how to operate in confined spaces and under challenging circumstances.  Training included:

• Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Use of an automated external defibrillator (AED)
• Correct use of climbing equipment, stretchers, and equipment for the transport of injured persons
• Use of breathing appliances
• Use of mechanical equipment for the release of trapped workers
• Use of fire extinguishers 

The teams have held drills relating to the rescue of people trapped in non-breathable atmospheres.  Rescue equipment is kept in a dedicated response centre and includes buzz saws, chainsaws, foam generators and lifting cushions.

We plan to share the knowledge and expertise gained from our Stratoni operations by applying successful management and operational techniques to our Greek development projects as they come on stream and also at Certej.

We value the knowledge and skills of the local populations where we operate and aim to encourage communication of this knowledge throughout the business.  In particular, Certej has a long mining history dating back to the middle of the 18th century. Since the decline of mining activities in the 1990’s, a highly skilled and motivated workforce struggled to look for alternative employment and today remains unemployed.  As a result the local community collectively supports the re-opening of the Certej mine.  Current unemployment in Certej stands at over 80% which can be reduced to 1-2% following the re-opening of the mine.

During the initial 2 year construction, over 800 jobs will be created.  In addition 400 permanent positions will be available during the life of the mine and the majority of these positions will be prioritised for the local population.

To date atleast 90 permanent jobs at Certej have been created and over US$40 million has been invested in the project which has helped significantly improve the local infrastructure including the main access road in the region.  Following start up, the project will contribute to the local council budget as a result of taxes and fees and which will be reinvested into the local community.