I don't know about mining, but I do know that some pretty damn simple things make a hell of a difference. Hospital safety has been improved quite impressively (or disturbingly, depending on your perspective) by using a checklist prior to surgery. Questions identifying the surgical site feature on the list, and writing on the site too. Staff are asked if anyone has any concerns. It's amazing what a group of highly trained individuals can screw up without child-like safety systems being in place.
http://www.npsa.nhs.uk/corporate/news/surgical-safety-checkl...