An incentive scheme is a structured plan or program designed to motivate individuals or groups to achieve specific goals or exhibit desired behaviors [1]. Effective incentive schemes for operators and supervisors in mines typically include a blend of monetary rewards, safety bonuses, performance-based bonuses, and non-financial recognition. These schemes aim to motivate workers to improve productivity, enhance safety performance, and reinforce positive behaviors. Let’s explore the various types of incentive schemes applied to mining industry.
Monetary bonuses and gang bonuses
Historically, gang bonus schemes rewarded underground workers based on results. These have shown performance improvements in productivity by significant percentages over a few years when well implemented and linked to measurable work outputs.
Safety incentive programs
Emphasize rewarding behavior that improves workplace health and safety (WHS), such as reporting hazards, following procedures, and taking proactive safety steps rather than merely outcome metrics like injury frequency rates. Such schemes are most effective when developed with employee consultation, regularly communicated, and integrated with broader WHS strategies.
Performance-based incentives
Once you link bonuses to clear, measurable performance targets for operators and supervisors, it encourages alignment with mine goals. This includes productivities like tonnes mined, efficiency, and quality metrics. Positive reinforcement close to the activity it rewards enhances effect.
Non-financial incentives
Recognition through awards, certificates, and public acknowledgment can strongly motivate employees, especially when monetary rewards alone are insufficient. In some mines, non-financial incentives complement bonuses to build safety culture and employee engagement.
The most effective incentive schemes in mining integrate financial rewards tied to both productivity and safety with ongoing communication, employee involvement, and complementary non-financial recognition to foster motivation and a positive safety culture among operators and supervisors.
Reference
[1] “What is an Incentive System: Key Components and Benefits.” Accessed: Oct. 01, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://plum.xoxoday.com/glossary/incentive-system
