Monthly Archives: January 2025

Client Focus

SANDVIK ROCK PROCESSING SIGNS DISTRIBUTORSHIP AGREEMENT WITH S&R ENTERPRISES     

Sandvik Rock Processing customers in the Southern African aggregate and construction industry can look forward to a new era following the appointment of a dedicated distributor, S&R Enterprises, to look after their interests in both the stationary and mobile crushing and screening equipment segments. 

While the distribution agreement is for Southern Africa, initial focus will be on South Africa. In a 24 month staged approach S&R Enterprises will establish its regional footprint, starting with branches in South Africa, and eventually in Botswana and Namibia. 

Led by Managing Director Stephen Smith, S&R Enterprises was established in January 2012, initially with a special focus on aftermarket parts and eventually refurbishing of old mobile crushing and screening equipment. 

With 20 years of experience working with Sandvik Rock Processing and other leading crushing and screening equipment, Smith and his team have built a solid reputation across the mining, quarrying, construction, demolition and agricultural sectors, not only in South Africa, but in Africa at large. 

“We have always been aware of the Sandvik build quality, and that is why we are excited to embark on this partnership to support quarrying and construction customers’ growth aspirations through dedicated support that speaks directly to their operational needs. Our focus is on the small to medium sized stationary and mobile equipment in the 100 to 200 tonnes per hour (tph) size range,” says Smith.

S&R Enterprises, says Smith, has a three-pronged approach to providing unparalleled support to its customers. This comprises an aggressive wear and spare parts pricing strategy, investment in the right machine inventory and a strong aftermarket regime in general – which will be key to clawing back significant market share for Sandvik Rock Processing in the aggregate and construction sector. 

“At the core of our strategy is to get the pricing of our wear and spare parts in line with market expectations. We are working closely with Sandvik Rock Processing to get this alignment right. We strongly believe that this is the first major step in getting the Sandvik brand back to the top, where it rightfully belongs. We commend the Sandvik Rock Processing team, led by Tarynn Yatras, Vice President – Sales Area Africa, for the collaborative effort in this venture,” concludes Smith.

Client Focus

POWER-PACKED GODWIN BD150 DEWATERING PUMP 

The Godwin BD150 Dri-Prime® Pump represents the latest innovation in multipurpose dewatering solutions, designed to meet the needs of a wide range of applications. Whether for construction, industrial projects, utility maintenance or emergency dewatering applications, this robust pump is built for efficiency, cost effectiveness and reliability.

Available from Integrated Pump Technology, the Godwin BD150 delivers powerful performance, with flow capabilities reaching up to 592 m³/h and discharge heads extending to 49 metres. Engineered with versatility in mind, it features a fully automatic self-priming system allowing for seamless operation across various demanding environments. 

This pump is capable of handling solids up to 75 mm in diameter, thanks to the venturi priming system – making it a suitable choice for almost any dewatering application. 

Godwin has optimised the BD150’s hydraulic design using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technology, significantly improving its efficiency and fuel economy. The robust construction including high-quality impeller, seal and bearing materials, ensures long lasting durability even under challenging conditions. Further, the pump is built for ease of use and serviceability, backed by the trusted Godwin brand and support by Integrated Pump Technology.

Flexibility is another key feature of the Godwin BD150 series. It can be supplied on an open skid base or a two-wheel site trailer, offering users a range of options depending on their specific operational needs. The bare shaft is made from corrosion-resistant materials, providing resilience in harsh environments, while electric motor options and other engine configurations are also available to meet diverse requirements.

Operators will appreciate the simplified control panel which includes features such as key start-stop functionality, an ammeter, an hour meter and a low oil pressure indicator. The pump also includes optional accessories like forklift pockets and a four-point lifting frame for easier transport and handling.

Beyond its robust performance, the Godwin BD150 excels in application flexibility. It can handle sewage, slurries and liquids containing solids, making it suitable for a wide range of dewatering challenges and its dry-running capabilities, made possible by abrasion-resistant silicon carbide faces, further enhance its durability.

In addition to the pump’s impressive capabilities, Integrated Pump Technology provides essential support across key mining regions, ensuring the Godwin BD150 is readily available and fully supported in demanding environments. 

With extensive experience in the dewatering industry, Integrated Pump Technology delivers expert technical assistance, quick response times and a comprehensive range of spare parts to keep operations running smoothly. The company’s network across mining hubs ensures that mines and other end-users can rely on timely maintenance, servicing and troubleshooting, making the Godwin BD150 a trusted solution for critical dewatering tasks in remote and challenging 

Client Focus

SEW-EURODRIVE CHAMPIONS ENERGY EFFICIENCY ACROSS SECTORS 

South Africa’s adoption of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) mandates that all newly imported electric motors meet IE3 premium efficiency levels. SEW-EURODRIVE, however, has long been ahead of this curve, having standardised on IE3 motors more than eight years ago. The company’s commitment to sustainability ensured that its customers transitioned to the advanced technology without bearing additional costs.

Willem Strydom, Business Development Electronics Manager at SEW-EURODRIVE South Africa, highlights that several industry sectors have been proactive in shifting towards energy efficiency. Rising electricity prices have driven industry to adopt IE3 motors, with SEW-EURODRIVE estimating that these motors consume 7% to 8% less energy compared to IE1 models. Strydom says that when paired with Variable Speed Drives (VSDs), energy savings can reach up to 15%.

“Energy efficiency not only reduces operational costs but also aligns with companies’ decarbonisation goals,” says Strydom. “As most electricity in South Africa still comes from coal, reducing consumption directly lowers carbon footprints.”

SEW-EURODRIVE supports its customers by conducting on-site energy assessments and product population surveys at no cost. “These evaluations identify inefficiencies, helping companies to plan their transition to IE3 motors strategically and cost-effectively,” he says. “The data collected also provides early warnings about potential equipment failures, reducing downtime risks.”

To further ease the shift, SEW-EURODRIVE advises customers to prioritise upgrades in motor classes with lower stock levels and balance replacements between larger and smaller motors for maximum impact. VSDs are often recommended to manage peak energy demands, reducing penalties and extending motor lifespans.

Looking ahead, Strydom believes MEPS will accelerate the adoption of even higher efficiency standards, paving the way for IE4 and IE5 motors. SEW-EURODRIVE is already leading this innovation with its IE5 synchronous motors, which feature integrated permanent magnet technology and deliver up to 50% lower energy losses compared to IE3 models.

“SEW-EURODRIVE’s commitment to advancing energy efficiency is backed by our 300-strong global research and development team,” he says. “We are already pioneering IE6 technology, setting new benchmarks in sustainability and performance.”

With its forward-thinking approach and robust customer support, SEW-EURODRIVE continues to drive energy efficiency advancements in South Africa, helping industries meet sustainability and cost-saving goals.

Client Focus

CONCOR DRIVES LOCAL EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SKILLS AT CONRADIE PARK

One of Cape Town’s most exciting mixed-use developments, Conradie Park is opening doors for young people to develop new skills and gain critical experience in the workplace. 

The large-scale mixed-use development in Pinelands – where work began in 2019 – is creating over 4,000 new affordable homes served by a retail centre, a town square, a community centre, park and schools. In collaboration with the Western Cape Government, Concor is proud to be part of this R5-billion 22-hectare project designed to foster economic inclusion and provide greater opportunities for wealth distribution, particularly benefitting underprivileged communities. 

According to Sakena Parker, Concor’s Community Liaison Officer at Conradie Park, a vital part of this focus is the project’s focus training and youth development initiatives. Parker explains that, in addition to the company’s ongoing training of its own people, it also partners with other organisations to uplift the local skills base.

“We employ learners from the National Youth Service, part of the Expanded Public Works Programme, who are training as apprentices in artisan trades,” she says. “We also give experiential learning opportunities to students in the Western Cape’s Masakh’iSizwe programme, which develops professional skills in the engineering and built environmental fields.”

As an extension of its skills development partnerships, Concor also works with the provincial departments to upskill unemployed youth – exposing them to the opportunities in the construction sector trades. The first intake in 2022 allowed youth to be introduced to fields such as plumbing, plastering, tiling and painting, for instance. 

“With many of them coming from challenging backgrounds, this creates a valuable opportunity to find their feet in a sustainable career,” she says. “We even look to include young people who have undergone drug rehabilitation or are ex-convicts – to help them rebuild their lives through a positive career in our sector. This has to be carefully managed, but it is essential to our inclusive approach.”

Concor is also a host employer for students from the Industries Education and Training Institute (IETI), a training provider that shares a commitment to youth empowerment through skills development. The time that IETI learners spend on the Conradie Park site gives them the practical experience they need to gain a well-rounded education in their trades. On-site training for IETI learners began three years ago, and includes carpentry and bricklaying apprentices who really appreciate the experience.

“From the first day I set foot on the Conradie Park site as a first-year learner, I knew I was entering a world of opportunities,” says third-year apprentice Jordan Samuels. “I am still gaining phenomenal insights amongst veteran artisans, engineers and construction and quality managers from the main contractor and subcontractors.”

Samuels highlighted how this immersion in the real world of work deepened her understanding of her theoretical learning. It also allowed an all-encompassing practical experience beyond her own trade as carpenter – engaging in various other tasks such as setting out for brickwork and formwork, casting concrete, transferring levels and quality control. Another carpentry apprentice on site was Ashleigh-Ann Ruiters, who was inspired by her experience at Concor. 

“I got to work alongside foreman, site agents, engineers, construction supervisors, quality managers and subcontractors,” says Ruiters. “Not only did I get experience in carpentry but also with all kinds of trades on-site including administrative tasks that form part of running a site.”

Importantly, she highlighted how Concor’s core values – care, trust and teamwork – came through in the support she received. 

“These values truly nurture strong relationships, and I found this very helpful on many occasions,” she says, “particularly in getting my on-site exposure for my apprenticeship as required by my logbook.”

Parker emphasises that Concor understands it needs to make a positive contribution to society, and to be useful to humanity – by looking at the bigger picture. 

“It’s about the people that we engage, and how we help them to develop the skills and attitudes they need to work safely and responsibly – while making the world a better place,” she says. “This includes mentoring for technical skills as well as behavioural improvements.”

Supplier development also remains an important aspect of upskilling, and Concor’s initiatives have included contractor development training through the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC). 

Client Focus

PIONEERING A GREENER CONSTRUCTION FUTURE FOR AFRICA

As Africa’s construction industry embraces greener practices in meeting its infrastructure needs, CHRYSO is on board with a rebranded focus on sustainability. 

Having merged with GCP Applied Technologies under the Saint-Gobain banner, Chryso’s new identity reflects its commitment to eco-friendly innovation, according to Sibu Hlatshwayo, Managing Director of Chryso Southern Africa. This focus is at the core of its mission to responsibly support Africa’s infrastructure growth.

“We are addressing local needs while helping customers reduce CO₂ emissions,” says Hlatshwayo. “Our new green branded identity signals our dedication to pioneering the future of construction by creating practical, sustainable solutions.”

He highlights that Chryso’s approach centres around four pillars: innovation, proximity, partnership and sustainability. An example of its innovative edge is the Chryso® Quad Range, which allows contractors to use local aggregates that fall below traditional standards, to minimise transport distances and reduce carbon emissions. 

“Our Chryso Quad app complements our technical capability, guiding users to the best products based on specific aggregate characteristics, while our clay testing kit helps ensure quality results,” he explains. “Our Chryso EnviroAdd Range further reduces the environmental impact of construction by lowering clinker content in concrete mixes, as clinker is one of cement’s most energy-intensive components.”

Another breakthrough is Chryso’s innovations related to limestone calcined clay cement (LC3), a more sustainable alternative to traditional cement that blends limestone and clay to produce a greener concrete.

“Proximity is also a critical aspect of CHRYSO’s strategy, as we consider ourselves as a ‘multi-local’ business – rather than just multinational,” he says. “Our African footprint is well equipped to meet specific local needs with our facilities and our sales and technical support teams. By expanding our network of local laboratories – recently opening a new facility in Kenya, for instance – we can test raw materials locally and quickly to provide optimised solutions.”

Through more localised production, such as its manufacture of cement additives in Ghana, customers have the advantage of quicker turnaround times and reduced logistics costs, as well as the convenience of purchasing in local currency. 

“CHRYSO is also driven by a passion for collaboration,” says Hlatshwayo. “Climate change requires a united approach, so we work with partners across the construction ecosystem to enhance our impact.”

Sustainability is at the heart of Chryso’s mission, and the company shares both admixture solutions and specialised knowledge to help customers to reduce their environmental footprint. The Chryso Academy is a valuable resource in this mission, offering courses to contractors, universities and other stakeholders to promote sustainable construction.

He concludes that sustainability needs to include renewed attention on the circular economy, as Africa’s rapid urbanisation is demanding increased recycling of concrete. This is another area where Chryso admixtures are playing their role. 

Client Focus

RAPID INTEREST IN WEIR MODULAR WHEELED PLANT CONCEPT 

Since its official introduction earlier this year, the Weir Modular Wheeled Plant (WMWP) has generated a lot of interest amongst customers in southern Africa. This was particularly apparent at Electra Mining Africa, where the first commercial unit on display was one of the major attractions on the company’s stand. 

From inception, the introduction of the WMWP concept was aimed at addressing specific customer needs in the market. Based on Weir’s feedback collection, the most relevant and useful aspects of the design were always going to be mobility and ease of deployment – parameters of paramount significance to contractors who seek to easily move their plants on and between production sites.

“Given that the design of the WMWP concept addresses these specific customer needs, we have seen immediate acceptance in the marketplace. In addition to mobility and ease of deployment, the concept offers the flexibility of a mobile plant and the productivity of a static plant. From an economic point of view, customers can also enjoy the mobility of the plant without the complexity associated with additional maintenance obligations for components such as diesel engines and tracks related to mobile tracked units,” says Hakan Karlsson, Director Crushing and Screening at Weir. 

Weir used Electra Mining Africa to showcase its first commercial unit, the Weir Modular Cone/Screen  WMWSC36-5162, a combination of a TRIO® TC36 cone crusher and a TRIO® TIO 5162 double-deck screen on a single trailer. The plant can be operated as a standalone unit or as part of an existing plant. It can also be integrated as a fully mobile solution, highlighting the versatility of Weir’s wheeled modular plant offering. 

Jaco Kotzé, Team Leader Comminution Design at Weir, says the first unit is a culmination of customer interfacing and learnings from the market. “Following the customer launch event we have had good customer inputs and insights which, to a great extent, informed the design of the first commercial unit. We embraced the feedback and finetuned the plant accordingly,” says Kotzé, adding that the first unit will be deployed at a gold dump reprocessing and aggregate production operation in Gauteng, South Africa. 

While Weir displayed a cone/screen combination at Electra Mining Africa, the company’s wheeled plant concept will soon be available in various configurations, starting from primary crushing solutions comprising a hopper, a vibrating grizzly feeder and a jaw crusher to secondary crushing and stations which consist of a vibrating screen and a cone crusher. To combine these solutions, customers can use Weir Modular Conveyors to configure a plant that is capable of producing aggregates for various end-use requirements. The tonnage range for the WMWP is from 100 to 350 tonnes per hour. 

Client Focus

OVERCOMING STICKY CHALLENGES IN MATERIAL TRANSFER SYSTEMS

Handling sticky materials in mining and minerals processing can create significant obstacles from equipment blockages and excessive wear to increased maintenance and operational inefficiencies. Successfully addressing these challenges requires specialised expertise and tailored solutions, according to Dewald Tintinger, Technical Manager at Weba Chute Systems.

“Sticky materials are notorious for causing inefficiencies in transfer systems,” says Tintinger. “To mitigate these issues, it is essential to partner with experienced solution providers who understand the complexities of material behaviour and transfer point design.”

Smarter designs for smoother operations

The flow of sticky materials can be improved significantly with thoughtful transfer point designs that minimise blockages and build-ups. Tintinger explains that optimised chute geometry is critical to maintaining material movement.

“By designing chutes to reduce impact forces and prevent material degradation, we create transfer point systems that operate more smoothly. Using durable linings, such as ceramic or rubber, further protects the equipment from wear and extends its service life,” he explains.

Controlling moisture levels is another vital consideration when dealing with sticky materials. Tintinger points out that excessive moisture increases material adhesion and build-up, disrupting flow. “Incorporating proper drainage, dust suppression or material conditioning systems helps maintain ideal moisture levels, which reduces the risk of blockages.”

Addressing material variability

Sticky material challenges are often exacerbated by inconsistent material properties, such as segregation or oversized particles. Tintinger highlights the value of blending systems and controlled crushing or screening to produce consistent material characteristics that promote smooth handling.

“These adjustments ensure the material moves effectively through the system, reducing the likelihood of disruptions,” he adds.

A holistic approach to material handling

An integrated view of the entire material handling process is essential for long-term success. Belt cleaning systems, for instance, are indispensable for preventing sticky material carryback that can lead to blockages at transfer points.

“Combining primary and secondary belt cleaners with tracking systems keeps belts clean and aligned, reducing wear and operational delays,” Tintinger notes.

Boosting productivity and efficiency

Tintinger emphasises that well-designed transfer points offer far-reaching benefits. “A proactive approach to managing sticky materials not only reduces maintenance and downtime but also optimises efficiency and productivity across the operation.”

“By addressing these challenges holistically, Weba Chute Systems continues to deliver innovative solutions that keep mining and minerals processing plants running smoothly, even in the stickiest situations,” he concludes. 

Client Focus

FLS TECHNOLOGY DRIVES STRATEGIC MINERAL PRODUCTION

Driven by its MissionZero strategy, FLS invests in sustainable technology development to underpin increased mining output – especially of those minerals in growing demand by economies moving toward a lower carbon future.

One such mineral is copper, which is essential for a vast array of decarbonising technologies, according to Alistair McKay, FLS Vice President for Capital Sales in Europe, Arabia and Africa. The European Union has recognised the importance of these commodities in its Critical Raw Materials Act, which defines both strategic and critical minerals. 

“In the category of critical minerals, there are 16 commodities which are vital,” says McKay. “A shortage of these minerals could derail economic activity, so we have put our weight behind industry efforts to raise levels of sustainable production.”

FLS therefore commits over 50% of its substantial research and development budget to technology that will have a noticeable impact on reduction of carbon emissions, as well as on water and energy consumption whilst improving plant performance. Among its innovations is the rail-running belt conveyor, which has proved itself to be a gamechanger in energy efficiency and operational flexibility. It can reduce the carbon footprint of operations by between 20% and 90% – with commensurate savings in energy costs. 

“The key to this technology is the way it overcomes the friction losses that are inherent to conventional belt conveyor systems,” he explains. “While a traditional belt conveyor has friction losses of between 0,070 and 0,110 kilowatt-hours per tonne per kilometre (kWh/t/km), our rail-running conveyor can reduce these to between 0,015 and 0,030 kWh/t/km.”

In the primary crushing circuit, FLS’s Eccentric Roll Crusher (ERC®) is another efficiency-focused technology – reducing energy consumption by up to 40% while able to increase throughput by as much as 20% for the same product size. Key to its success is the design integration of grizzly and crusher, and its high reduction ratio of 1:6. 

FLS has also taken its High Pressure Grinding Roll (HPGR) solutions another step forward, with the release of the HPGR Pro. McKay points out that HPGRs have gained considerable popularity for their energy savings, which the HPGR Pro has enhanced. 

“ The key attribute of the HPGR Pro is the innovative  rotating side plates, which can also be retrofitted onto equipment already in the field,” he says. “This advance has allowed the improved feeding of material onto the rolls, to ensure a uniform pressure profile across the full width of the roll. This not only improves throughput but reduces the concentrated wear in the mid-sections of the grinding roll, thereby improving throughput and further cuts energy consumption.”

Coarse particle flotation is also making a contribution to efficiency in production, through FLS’s coarseAIR™ technology. Floating coarser particles means that minerals can be liberated with less grinding, saving on energy and grinding media, he notes. Importantly, mill capacity can be enhanced at the same time – by more than 30%. 

“We are continuously progressing our technologies, leveraging the power of innovations of the REFLUX Classifiers – which are incorporated in the coarseAIR as well as our REFLUX Flotation Cell (RFC),” says McKay. “The RFC reduces residence time of material from an average of over 30 minutes to between three and four minutes – while achieving an increase in recoveries of 1 to 3% and using around 27% less energy.”

He concludes that FLS’s MissionZero drive continues to support mines’ carbon emissions and sustainability goals while allowing more ambitious production targets.

Client Focus

MURRAY & ROBERTS CEMENTATION ACHIEVES LANDMARK 8 MILLION FATALITY FREE SHIFTS

Leading underground mining contractor, Murray & Roberts Cementation has reached an extraordinary milestone by achieving 8 Million Fatality Free Shifts in early January 2025. This remarkable achievement, spanning more than a decade without a single fatality, sets an enviable benchmark in the mining sector, particularly in the inherently high-risk areas of shaft sinking and mine development.

The milestone is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to safety and its determination to embed a culture where safety is not just a policy but a way of life. Over the years, Murray & Roberts Cementation has invested heavily in safety training, advanced technologies and fostering a shared responsibility among its workforce.

“This major achievement would not be possible without each and every one of our people being committed and focused on safety as an integral part of everyday work,” says Japie du Plessis, Managing Director of Murray & Roberts Cementation. “Our teams operate in some of the most challenging environments, and it is their dedication to identifying and mitigating risks, following protocols and supporting one another that has made this accomplishment a reality.”

A Culture of Safety Excellence

Achieving 8 Million Fatality Free Shifts in such a hazardous industry is no small feat. It reflects a deeply embedded safety culture that extends across all levels of the organisation, from senior management to workers on the ground. Every employee is empowered to take ownership of safety, ensuring that proactive measures are taken to avoid potential risks.

Key to this success is Murray & Roberts Cementation’s Health, Safety and Environment framework which focuses on continuous improvement in safety management and operational performance. The company has also embraced cutting-edge technologies which allows people to be removed from the ‘contact area’ where most safety hazards are found. 

Training and Development

Murray & Roberts Cementation has long recognised that safety begins with knowledge. The company runs comprehensive training programmes at its world class training academy, equipping employees with the skills and awareness to handle the challenges of working in underground mining environments. Apart from ensuring operational competencies, these initiatives also emphasise hazard identification, risk management and emergency response preparedness.

“Safety is not something we achieve overnight – it requires consistent effort, vigilance and a shared vision across the organisation,” adds Du Plessis. “Our training programmes, combined with the adoption of global best practices and the latest technologies, have been instrumental in maintaining our safety record.”

A Benchmark for the Industry

The achievement of 8 Million Fatality Free Shifts places Murray & Roberts Cementation among the global leaders in mine safety. It not only demonstrates the company’s operational excellence but also serves as an example for the broader mining industry, proving that safety and productivity can go hand in hand.

As the company continues to grow and expand its operations, safety will remain the cornerstone of its success. This milestone underscores Murray & Roberts Cementation’s unwavering dedication to ensuring that every worker goes home safely at the end of each shift.

“While the 8 Million Fatality Free Shifts is a proud moment for Murray & Roberts Cementation, we remain focused on maintaining and exceeding this standard through our commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and fostering a resilient safety culture to protect its most valuable asset – our people,” Du Plessis concludes. 

Client Focus

SA EXPERIENCE SPURS PDS EXPANSION INTO SOUTHERN AFRICA

Benefiting from South Africa’s role as a global pioneer in Proximity Detection Systems (PDS), other countries in the region are embracing this safety and monitoring technology to great effect. 

“South Africa is leading the drive for PDS deployment due to its legislation, but the country is also probably the most experienced in the world on this topic,” says Anton Lourens, CEO of Booyco Electronics. “We have seen that most Southern Africa mines are adopting technology and solutions that have been deployed and proven in South Africa.”

Lourens notes that most of Booyco Electronics’ solutions and products are suitable for rollout in neighbouring countries, as they can meet local compliance standards. At the same time, the company drives a continuous improvement programme to meet global best practice. 

“The flexibility in our offering – facilitated through firmware optimisation on a universal hardware platform – ensures that we can effectively meet new customer demands without re-inventing the wheel for specific needs,” he explains. 

This has underpinned the company’s expansion strategy that includes Southern Africa, where there has been considerable new development in the region’s mining sector. Booyco Electronics’ long history in South Africa has feed its success in the rest of the region, as it is regularly contacted by mining decision-makers who were previous customers in South Africa – and are now working in neighbouring countries.  

“Having worked with us before to understand PDS capabilities, these customers then develop an understanding of local requirements in the countries where they are now based,” he says. “This creates valuable opportunities for us to expand into the region and share our knowledge and solutions further afield.” 

In its expansion, Booyco Electronics has adopted the strategy of partnering with in-country providers where a local support base can be established to ensure that the PDS technology is looked after and maintained.  

“We implement a skills transfer plan to develop the expertise of local support personnel while we are overseeing deployment and initial roll-out,” he explains. “By including these local resources as soon as possible in the deployment process, the in-country personnel become more competent and experienced. We retain oversight until the local team is able to provide full support and maintenance.”

Lourens highlights that successful implementation of any technology depends on the behaviour of the people involved, which requires proactive change management to facilitate the adoption of solutions. 

“Considering that mines in other Southern African countries are lagging their South African counterparts in terms of their PDS deployments, they are relatively inexperienced customers in this space,” he points out. “While the technology is an enabler to support users in driving their mine safety agenda, the successful deployment of PDS will be based on local culture and discipline – which must be managed so that it leads to effective adoption.”

Booyco Engineering believes this can only be achieved through local partners that understand each country’s specific environment, languages and other differentiating factors.