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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWolfaardt highlights that there is well-proven Level 9 PDS technology available to mines, and it has been shown to significantly mitigate safety risk. However, the best results require more than technical installation; they require a systematic process of change management by all involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIntegrating a Level 9 PDS into a mining operation is not merely a technical upgrade; it fundamentally alters the way mines operate,\u201d he explains. \u201cChange management is the bridge that closes the disconnect between technology and people.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He notes that the change process impacts safety culture, production and operator behaviour. Without structured change management, resistance to new protocols can undermine the system\u2019s effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIn our experience, a lack of change management often leads to a mine experiencing undue production stoppages, miscommunication and frustration among operators and managers,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By fostering better understanding and acceptance, change management ensures that safety improvements translate into long term shifts in behaviour \u2013 going beyond basic compliance to support a stronger culture of safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n He explains that Apex, as the training service provider of choice to Booyco Electronics, addresses these challenges by ensuring that all stakeholders are involved and committed to the process. A vital starting point is a mine steering committee, ideally chaired by the general manager, to ensure alignment across departments from procurement and human resources to engineering and production. Apex then assumes its role as the Level 9 PDS change management facilitator and trainer on this committee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cLeadership commitment is the driving force behind successful Level 9 PDS adoption so when a general manager champions the change, it signals to employees that safety is a core priority,\u201d he says. \u201cAt the same time, every department must buy into the process and recognise their role.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n A key aspect of the change management process focuses on the mine\u2019s traffic management plan, part of the baseline risk assessment prescribed by the Machinery and Occupational Safety Act. This plan will identify all the vehicles and zones of significant risk on the mine, and starts with a traffic analysis.<\/p>\n\n\n \u201cDeveloping a sound traffic management plan will ensure that the mine understands their current traffic situation: Which vehicles are in the TMM fleet? Where do they travel? How often, and at what speeds?\u201d he explains. \u201cThe plan must also analyse aspects such as road conditions, illumination levels and ventilation \u2013 as well as the critical issue of interaction between machines, and between machines and pedestrians.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is important to identify pre-emptive traffic management adjustments that will minimise any disruptions and ensure that mining operations continue efficiently. Structured training is conducted with operators and other stakeholders, to understand the mine\u2019s new operating dynamics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cTraining is a cornerstone of effective Level 9 PDS implementation, and needs to be based on the gaps that we identify in the system,\u201d he says. \u201cIt focuses on people change management, and educates personnel on new protocols. This often goes beyond classroom training and should be tailored to operational needs.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Effective communication strategies, such as regular briefings and transparent discussions about challenges, help to build trust and buy-in from employees. Engaging workers in safety committees and seeking their input on system refinements also promotes ownership of the change.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Applying a Level 9 Proximity Detection System (PDS) to a mining operation is as much about changes in behaviour as it is about technical solutions, according to Pieter Wolfaardt from Apex, Booyco Electronics’ training partner of choice. \u201cAn operational readiness assessment process conducted up front highlights all potential impacts on operations and pedestrian safety, giving … Continue reading LEADING THE WAY WITH LEVEL 9 PDS IMPLEMENTATION<\/span> <\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n