‘It All Starts With Training’ – Article Preview

The global mining industry is experiencing transformational change. As demand for minerals surge, new players are emerging and business is becoming more challenging. India is witnessing an explosive growth in the mining sector supported by generous reserves of coal, iron ore, and other minerals. In fact, mineral exploration is predicted to be a key agenda for the government, which is automatically triggering demand for improved equipment.

With the growth in the mining industry, competition is inevitable. Companies are constantly under pressure to increase production, while at the same time bringing down costs. They are investing in the latest mining machines and equipment – such as excavators, wheel loaders, backhoe loaders, bulldozers, dump trucks or haul trucks, tippers, graders and rope shovels, etc. – that can deliver maximum output in the most efficient way. However, the global mining industry is also experiencing several key challenges, which is affecting the productivity of individual companies within the industry.

What is affecting the productivity of mines?

Globally, mines are facing some serious challenges which are becoming a deterrent to improving productivity. Some of the common challenges include:

• Shortage of skilled operators: The mining industry, globally, is experiencing a significant labour shortage, leading to production cuts. The industry is in constant need of skilled manpower to support its growth plans and fill talent gaps – caused by retirements and injuries.
• Increasing costs: Prices are soaring, whether it is fuel costs, resource costs, or operating costs. The industry is under constant pressure to look at ways to improve productivity at reduced costs to remain profitable, but there is an urgent need for mining companies to find suitable ways to keep costs under control.
• High risks: The mining industry has always been known for its risky and hazardous working environments. Research shows that the majority of incidents at mines take place because of human error, the control of which would enhance safety levels in working sites considerably. The risk involved with mining is also dissuading young workers from embracing the mining industry as a potential career path.
• Knowledge drain: Knowledge and skills within mining can drain away when old and experienced employees retire, which is a serious loss to any company and can significantly impact business. There is an urgent need for mines to retain this rich knowledge gathered over a period of time. However, knowledge transfer has not always been easy. Although classroom training and lectures are not new, they have not always worked well with blue collared mine operators. There is a need for education and knowledge sharing in an engaging format, so that operators are able to learn the skills needed and understand the potential dangers involved in a hands-on manner.

This is a preview of an article that was originally published in the November/December 2022 issue of Global Mining Review. The full version can be read here.

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Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/special-reports/23122022/it-all-starts-with-training-article-preview/