A statement issued by Newmont Gold Ghana Limited at Ntotroso in the Asutifi district of Brong Ahafo said the company signed the code with five of the world's largest gold producers and three major manufacturers of cyanide used in gold production.

The code was developed by a multi-stakeholder group, and it is a global industry programme for companies involved in the production of gold. It provides a comprehensive guidance for best practice in the use and management of cyanide.

It was developed under the sponsorship of the United Nations Environment Programme and the International Council on Mining and Metals.

The statement said the code covers production, transportation, handling and storage, operations, facility decommissioning, worker safety and training, emergency response and public awareness and communication programmes in the gold industry.

Mr. Wayne Murdy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Newmont Mining Corporation said: "Newmont is committed to upholding the standards of the international cyanide code in order to protect human safety and the environment".

Dr Chris Anderson, Newmont's Director of External Affairs for Africa and Europe said: "We expect to fully utilize our significant involvement in this initiative as a key driver to operationalize all aspects of best practices in the management and use of cyanide in our projects".