Environment & Safety
In June 2021, Cigar Lake Mine celebrated its fourth consecutive win of the John T. Ryan Regional Safety Trophy.
Safety
We manage the safety of our workers through programs, systems, and standards, with our Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) Policy providing overarching guidance. There are many aspects of the management system that contribute to a safe work environment, a few examples include:
- Risk assessments help identify issues and determine the appropriate controls; the corrective action process verifies that incidents and near misses are reported, tracked, investigated and shared with colleagues; and emergency preparedness and planning prepare us to respond to serious incidents.
- We have developed 12 corporate safety standards to help protect our workers from our most common hazards. Some standards guide our general safety practices, such as our job hazard analysis and our job task observation, and other standards deal with specific hazardous situations (similar to other companies’ life saving rules): such as fall protection, confined space entry, rigging and hoisting, and control of hazardous energy (also referred to as lockout/tagout).
- Routine audits are conducted to monitor compliance with regulations and our own requirements. These and other aspects of the management system are routinely examined to verify that they continue to be effective at keeping our workers safe.
Recognized for four consecutive years by the Canadian Institute of Mining's John T. Ryan Regional Safety Trophy, Cigar Lake's risk-based approach and strong safety culture seeks to introduce safety controls before incidents occur.
Radiation Protection
Radiation risks are effectively managed at Cigar Lake through a formal radiation protection program and dedicated personnel who ensure that doses to workers are as low as reasonably achievable. The program ensures that radiation protection is considered in the physical design of all facilities and operating procedures. It also provides for systematic monitoring of radiation in work areas and tracking the exposures of individual workers using a combination of monitoring devices and health testing. Radiation exposures at Cigar Lake are far below the regulated limits.
Environmental Protection
At Cameco, protection of the environment is one of our highest corporate priorities during all stages of our activities, from exploration through development, operations, decommissioning, and reclamation.
We monitor our performance by tracking corporate and site-specific key performance indicators, conducting environmental monitoring programs, and regularly auditing our adherence to the requirements of these programs We use the information from all of our programs to help us to identify opportunities to improve.
Environmental management system
We have a ISO 14001-certified environmental management system used across our operating sites, which is supported by a corporate Environmental Management Program that outlines the operating requirements sites must meet. Our environmental management system encourages and promotes continuous adaptation of our practices based on new information and technologies.
Environmental risk assessments
We complete environmental risk assessments to systematically identify, quantify, and to characterize the potential risks to the environment, workers, and the public. We use our environmental risk assessments to inform our decisions and actions. Additionally, we complete an iterative process, where required, to verify that our proposed measures to protect the environment and the public are effective. We review or update the assessments every five years, incorporating results from our environmental monitoring programs and other scientific advances.
Environmental performance reports
For our Saskatchewan operations, every five years we also compare monitoring data collected during the reporting period against predictions contained in approved environmental risk assessments or environmental assessments. By reviewing the data from the performance reports and conducting risks assessments, we are able to demonstrate that human health and the environment in the vicinity of our Saskatchewan operations remains protected. Results from these analyses are also used to inform changes to the environmental monitoring programs conducted at each operation.
Corrective action process
We have a corrective action process in place to systematically investigate and address the causes of non-conformance to regulatory requirements or internal standards. The process includes classifying the non-conformance, assigning the appropriate level of investigation (dependent on incident significance), and tracking the recommended corrective actions to prevent and mitigate similar occurrences.
Audits
To support our culture of continuous improvement, our processes and operations undergo regular audits, including:
- Our environmental management system is audited by a third-party every three years as a requirement to maintain our ISO 14001 certification.
- Our SHEQ team conducts an internal audit of our SHEQ programs on a three-year cycle. The total audit scope is split in half and executed on a rotating basis. This means that all our sites undergo at least two audits to cover all aspects of our SHEQ programs within every three-year period. The audit follows the ISO 19001 process and encompasses our environmental and safety programs.
- We also maintain and implement an internal audit program at our corporate office. Results and recommendations from this systematic and documented process are presented to senior management, who are responsible for implementing them and correcting any deficiencies. The internal audit group reports to the audit and finance committee of the board.
Environmental Monitoring
Comprehensive monitoring programs are in place at the Cigar Lake operation to help protect the surrounding environment. Samples of water, air, soil, plants and fish are collected from numerous locations around the site and tested to confirm that environmental protection systems are effective. Monitoring results are submitted to federal and provincial regulatory authorities for review. Cameco also supports independent regional monitoring downstream of its Saskatchewan operations to ensure there are no cumulative effects on the regional watershed. The extensive monitoring undertaken at Cigar Lake has identified no significant impact on the surrounding environment.
Environmental Incidents and Other Events
Environmental incidents and other events are reported to regulatory agencies as required by federal and provincial regulations.
Latest incident or event:
| Date | January 13, 2026 |
| Incident | Radiation Action Level Exceedance |
| Details | The calculated dose for a worker exceeded the weekly action level. |
| Corrective Action | An investigation was initiated, and regulators were notified. |
| Cameco Environmental Effect Rating | not applicableN/A |
- Past Reporting
Date January 13, 2026 Incident Radiation Action Level Exceedance Details The calculated dose for a worker exceeded the weekly action level. Corrective Action An investigation was initiated, and regulators were notified. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Oct. 23, 2025 Incident Dangerous Occurrence Details A welder observed a small flare-up beneath an engine frame they were repairing. Corrective Action The welder extinguished the flame with a nearby fire extinguisher. An investigation was initiated, and regulators were notified. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Oct. 29, 2025 Incident Reportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release Details A tote containing a reagent was punctured by a telehandler fork. Approximately 600 L was released to ground. The operator used a shovel to dam the spill, and the supervisor and environment technician were called to the scene. The area was roped off and the spill was cleaned up immediately. Corrective Action An investigation was initiated, and regulators were notified. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Sept. 23, 2025 Incident Weekly Radiation Action Level Exceedance Details A worker’s effective dose for a seven-day period was 1.713 mSv. This exceeds the weekly action level of 1.0 mSv. Corrective Action An investigation identified that during work that occurred on Sept. 15, the individual likely was exposed to elevated Long Lived Radioactive Dust escaping a clarifier in ore loadout while performing watchperson duties. The regulatory agencies have been notified and further investigation is underway. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date June 5, 2025 Incident Lost-Time Injury Details A worker suffered an injury when they slipped on a staircase while carrying water jugs. Corrective Action The worker was provided care at the health centre and an investigation was undertaken. Follow up assessment off-site determined that further medical intervention is required. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date June 12, 2025 Incident Reportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release Details A leak test confirmed a leak in a sump on Stockpile C, a potentially acid-generating waste rock pile. More than 1,000 litres of water are estimated to have leaked to the ground. Corrective Action The inflow valve was shut off and repairs will be completed. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date May 28, 2025 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details The ERT was deployed to the powerhouse building for a heat alarm. No smoke or fire was found. The ERT opened the doors to dissipate heat and reset the alarm panel. The alarm was caused by generators running due to a power outage and high ambient temperatures.
Corrective Action N/A Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date May 16, 2025 Incident Lost-Time Injury Details A worker’s finger was injured when it was pinched between a rock and the metal siding of a Terex convoy. Corrective Action The worker reported to the on-site nursing staff for treatment and was transported offsite via air ambulance for further medical
assessment. The scene was frozen and an investigation was initiated.Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date March 24, 2025 Incident Lost-Time Injury Details While trying to release a chain on a loader, a worker suffered an injury to their finger. Corrective Action The worker reported to the on-site nursing staff for treatment and was flown off site for further medical assessment. The incident is under investigation and has been reported to the regulators. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date March 8, 2025 Incident Lost-Time Injury Details While operating underground rock-bolting equipment, a worker suffered a crush-type injury to their hand. Corrective Action The worker reported to on-site nursing staff for treatment and was flown off-site for further assessment. The incident is under investigation and has been reported to the regulators. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Feb. 26, 2025 Incident Reportable Release Details Approximately 39 cubic metres of Potentially Acid Generating (PAG) waste rock from underground were erroneously placed on an unlined stockpile designated for clean basement rock, instead of the Waste Rock Crush Pad. Corrective Action The material was removed and placed on the crush pad. An investigation is underway. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Nov. 6, 2024 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details During routine environmental inspections, aircraft fuel was observed leaking from the sample station/pump into its secondary containment. The leak was coming from a check valve at the top of the tank. Corrective Action An emergency response team was activated to attend the scene and to control any possible vapours. A millwright arrived and controlled the leak. A maintenance notification was created to prevent recurrence. The CNSC Duty officer was contacted. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Oct. 25, 2024 Incident Reportable Discharge Details A tote of MasterRoc SA 160 was punctured by a forklift, resulting in a release of approximately 50 litres onto the ground. Corrective Action The spilled product was cleaned up and will be sent offsite for proper disposal. The CNSC Duty Officer and Provincial Spill Control Centre were notified. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Sept. 13, 2024 Incident Radiation Action Level Exceedance Details A worker had an acute intake of 2.1 mSv of uranium due to a potential personal protective equipment misuse. Corrective Action The worker was removed from radiation work areas and an investigation has been initiated. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Sept. 13, 2024 Incident Dangerous Occurrence Details The Shaft #2 hoist was in Auto Cage mode when the cage was called to the collar. A loader operator opened the gate and started to place a skid onto the cage. When the operator had the skid approximately halfway into the cage, the cage started to travel up to its resting spot. The operator realized it was moving and backed out quickly; a shaft crew member quickly hit the emergency-stop, which halted the cage's movement. Corrective Action Electricians investigated and discovered a switch was stuck in a closed position and repairs were completed. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date Sept. 6-12, 2024 Incident Radiation Action Level Exceedance Details An analysis of urine samples showed a contractor received a dose that exceeded the weekly action level of 1 mSv. Corrective Action The worker was removed from radiation work areas and the abnormal intake standard was implemented. Preliminary investigation suggests improper removal of PPE contributed to the event. Investigation is ongoing. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date August 20, 2024 Incident Dangerous Occurrence Details A loaded scoop was proceeding up a ramp from the 500L. Approximately 12 m up the ramp, the scoop slid back down and contacted a power take-off (PTO) panel located approximately 3.5m up the ramp. Upon investigation by qualified personnel, it was determined that the bottom left corner of the PTO panel exterior was damaged, but the integrity of the outer case was intact. The cable to the PTO had not been contacted in any way, the equipment operator was unharmed, and the scoop had no visible damage. This event is considered a dangerous occurrence in The Mines Regulations, 2018, based on the loss of control of the vehicle conveying workers. Corrective Action The area was roped off, the PTO panel was locked out and all equipment involved were assessed for damages. The PTO panel was then removed and a notification was entered to have the PTO replaced and installed in a better location. A review of all PTO locations underground will be performed and the ones that are deemed to be in the line of fire of mobile equipment will be relocated. Furthermore, the ramp was chipped and will be shotcreted to increase traction. An investigation in conjunction with the Occupational Health Committee will be completed. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date August 4, 2024 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details A fire alarm at the 480 Level control room bathroom underground was activated at 6:08 p.m. There was no sign of smoke or fire underground. The smoke detector had been set off by a controlled mining blast. Corrective Action N/A Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date July 11, 2024 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details A fire alarm in the underground (UG) fuel bay was activated at 09:51 pm. Corrective Action All UG personnel reported to the refuge stations and were accounted for by incident command. MRT responded to the UG fuel bay, swept the mine, and confirmed there was no smoke or fire. The fire alarm panel was reset, stench gas cartridges replaced and the MRT stood down. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date July 2, 2024 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details A fire alarm at the Shaft #2 Mine Air Exhaust Building was activated at 05:17 p.m. The ERT responded and confirmed there was no fire. The fire alarm panel was reset and the ERT stood down. The alarm was triggered by dust from concrete dust clean-up activities making its way through the vents. Corrective Action N/A Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date July 3, 2024 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details A fire, caused by a lighting storm and dry forest conditions, was observed by site personnel and safety team on the lease between the site guard shack and gravel pit. The site ERT team deployed to find the location and the status of the fire. Upon locating the fire, the team worked to prevent it from spreading and impacting the site, using water packs and hand tools. SPSA Stony Rapids deployed a helicopter to site to confirm the location and control of the fire, then landed and confirmed the fire to be under control. The safety team will continue to monitor the area. Corrective Action N/A Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date June 27, 2024 Incident Lost-Time Injury Details On Dec. 23, a worker injured their right bicep while attempting to remove a seized pin. On Dec. 28, the worker was placed on restricted work duties. The worker continued to experience symptoms related to the injury, and after following up with offsite medical attention, was scheduled for surgery. Starting July 6, 2024, this injury will be reclassified to a lost-time injury. Corrective Action An investigation was completed to determine the contributing factors to the event. It found the injury was caused by using the incorrect tool for the job. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date June 21, 2024 Incident Dangerous Occurrence Details A worker was on the second rung of a ladder when the top of the ladder came loose and shifted backward. The worker stepped off the ladder and was not injured. Investigation determined the wedge that secured the clamp at the top of the ladder had come loose and caused the clamp to open. Corrective Action The scaffolding has been repaired and inspected. Site scaffold erectors are completing inspections on the scaffolding with increased focus on similar ladder attachments. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date May 28, 2024 Incident
Dangerous OccurrenceDetails A cage operator opened the door to signal to the hoist operator and then proceeded out of the cage. When signaling to release the cage after closing the door, a rock fell from above and landed beside the cage operator. The operator was not injured, however, there was the potential for a more serious outcome had they been contacted by the rock. Corrective Action The headframe was inspected for any other rocks on the beams. The shaft was also inspected. An investigation in conjunction with the site Occupational Health and Safety Committee will be conducted. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date May 24, 2024 Incident
Reportable DischargeDetails A compressor for the process water cooling loop was observed not running. Upon further investigation, the condenser had lost its entire 310-pound charge of R134A refrigerant. Corrective Action Equipment is not operating at this time; investigation into the cause of the leak and possible repairs will be completed. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating no measurable impact to the environment1 Date May 17, 2024 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details A fire alarm at the administration building was activated at 08:43 pm on May 16, 2024. Corrective Action The ERT responded to the firehall and was put on standby while the field coordinator assessed the situation. This was a witnessed event and it was confirmed that dust from sweeping activities set off the alarm. The alarm panel was reset and the ERT stood down. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Date March 4, 2024 Incident Environmental Action Level Exceedance Details On March 4, 2024, a treated effluent pond was released to the environment that was above the action level for molybdenum of 1.1 mg/L as stated in the environmental code of practice in the Cigar Lake Environment Management Program. The result from the external laboratory for the pond was 1.36 mg/L. The pond fill sample result from the Cigar Lake laboratory for the pond was 0.06 mg/L on March 3, 2024 Corrective Action An additional sample collected on March 4, 2024 was sent to the external laboratory for re-analysis. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the event. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating no measurable impact to the environment1 Date March 2, 2024 Incident Event Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer Details A worker tripped on some equipment in the Shaft 2 Headframe. The emergency response team stabilized the situation and transported the worker to the health centre, where the worker was provided first aid treatment. The worker returned to full duties the following day. Corrective Action The event has been investigated, and corrective actions have been put in place. The event has been reported to the CNSC. Cameco Environmental Effect Rating not applicableN/A Cameco Environmental Effect Rating
- Level 1 - no measurable impact to the environment
- Level 2 - negligible impact
- Level 3 - short-term, seasonal impact
- Level 4 - mortality of some species, but not affecting ecosystem function
- Level 5 - impairment of ecosystem function
- N/A - not applicable
Decommissioning
Detailed plans and financial guarantees are in place to provide for decommissioning of the Cigar Lake sites when operations end. Decommissioning will include removal of all buildings and equipment and landscaping and re-vegetation of disturbed areas. All underground workings and other mine facilities will be sealed off and secured. A monitoring program will be in place to ensure the sites remain in a secure and stable state for the long-term. For more information, see Preliminary Decommissioning Plan - Summary - Cigar Lake Operation.
Waste Management
Ore mined at Cigar Lake is milled at Orano's McClean Lake operation. There is no tailings management facility at the Cigar Lake site. The jet boring mining method employed at Cigar Lake generates less waste rock than other methods. The waste rock that is brought to the surface is stored on lined pads. Waste rock containing small amounts of uranium is transported to the McClean Lake mill where it is used to blend down the high-grade ore prior to milling.
Environmental Risk Assessment
All new, or substantially changed, mining developments may be subject to environmental risk assessments (ERAs) to identify potential effects on the environment. ERAs follow guidance provided by CSA and various agencies, such as Health Canada (HC), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).
In 2021, Cameco completed an environmental risk assessment (ERA) in accordance with the standardized requirements found in CSA N288.6-12 Environmental Risk Assessments at Class I Nuclear Facilities and Uranium Mines and Mills.
Public Summary - Environmental Risk Assessment - Cigar Lake Operation (PDF 1.4 MB)
Regulatory Oversight
The primary regulator for the Cigar Lake operation is the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). The mine is also subject to regulatory oversight from several other federal and provincial agencies including Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment. Federal and provincial regulators conduct regular site inspections and audits to verify that people and the environment are protected. Uranium mining and milling operations in Canada are licensed by the CNSC.
Sustainability at Cameco
When measuring the sustainability and ethical impact of a company, environmental, social and governance (ESG) are key factors considered by the public and investors. Sustainability and ESG matters have been an important focus at Cameco for many years and we have a strong performance record.