Operator Skills and Training

AFRICAN MINING BRIEF – FEBRUARY 2014

Operator skills and training is essential in any industry and mining is no exception. Whether in a large or small operation, skill and training enhances safety and productivity which is the heart and life of any organisation.

Identifying deficiencies and conducting the necessary training to correct such deficiencies is vital as well as ensuring that training methods and practices are relevant, competitive and up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry.

Operators of production equipment are the heart and soul of productivity and mines can only be as productive as their operators. Training and improving the skills of both experienced and inexperienced operators can improve their technique, which can make the difference between making a profit or a loss.

“It is now possible to support a client’s entire equipment fleet with simulators.”

Today mines are finding traditional classroom training or computer based training by itself isn’t as effective as it should be. It is widely believed that trainees are not retaining enough knowledge they have learned from class to the actual equipment in the field.

The challenge is to create a blended learning curriculum, which takes cognisance of the number of integrated learning programs available which can help mines deliver the superior productivity and unmatched safety they demand. Integrated learning programs available include such components as computer-based learning; check your knowledge quizzes and tests; simulation; job aids and other performance support tools; assessment data and feedback loops; and structured on-the-job (OTJ) coaching and mentoring.

Mining simulation can now support the entire equipment range

It is now possible to support a client’s entire equipment fleet with simulators, thanks to ThoroughTec’s continued investment in Research and Development bandwidth, explains Greg Lew, Executive Vice- President of global business development at ThoroughTec.

The latest additions to an extensive range of simulators include Cat R1600 and R2900 loaders: Cat AD30, AD45 and AD55 dump trucks; Liebherr 996 mining shovel; Maclean 928 bolter; Komatsu 930E and HD785-7 haul trucks; Normet 1050 shotcrete sprayer and the LeTourneau 2350 wheel loader.

The global mining industry is currently experiencing tough times, hence innovations such as simulation, which can improve safety, productivity and environmental impact, are more critical than ever before, and are increasingly finding favour with a growing number of customers.

ThoroughTec Simulation’s CYBERMINE advanced mining simulators achieve exactly such benefits when integrated into a mine-site’s training programme. This is why ThoroughTec is not only experiencing increased demand for its products, but is anticipating further growth in future, explains Lew.

ThoroughTec now offers other training technologies like computer based training and operator familiarisation tools for a complete mine-site training solution, in addition to the existing range of CYBERMINE full mission simulators.

The CYBERMINE Computer-Based Training module (CBT) is an introductory-level tool developed to walk novice recruits through a particular vehicle’s basic controls and operation, as well as the mine environment, site operating procedures and safety checks.

The CBT modules make use of 2D and 3D computer animations, video, audio and still photographs displayed on a high-performance, off-the-shelf PC. All users and their results can be recorded on a central database.

Once trainees have mastered the theory within the CBT, the Operator Familiarisation Trainer (OFT) is used to increase the depth of their knowledge. The OFT functions as an alternative, limited-function base unit for CYBERMINE’s high-fidelity interchangeable vehicle cabs. It is designed to familiarise operators with the identification and operation of the instruments and controls of a specific vehicle.

Students interface with the OFT system via a touch-screen display and through the various instruments and controls of the replicated cab. Three different modes (namely Exploration, Training and Evaluation Modes) allow for a complete familiarisation, learning and evaluation process, while all users and their results can be recorded on a central database.

“Both the OFT and the high-fidelity, full- mission simulator can utilise any of the current CYBERMINE vehicle cabs, allowing the customer to double their use of the cab, and therefore providing optimal return on their investment,” said Lew.

Going beyond just providing the training tools, ThoroughTec has recognised the need to assist mines in achieving their business improvement objectives. In this regard it launched CYBERMINE SITE (Simulator Integrated Training Environment). CYBERMINE SITE looks to formalise and integrate induction training, equipment training per vehicle class, business improvement objectives and technology enhancements based on training outcomes.

This ensures simulator integration is accelerated and organisational training outcomes can be achieved efficiently. In developing this programme, ThoroughTec continued its focus on engineering and simulation development through partnerships with proven external training organisations to harness their specialised expertise.

In addition, the blue-chip clients such as Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton, Anglo American, Vale and Quadra FNX Mining have all benefitted from some of the latest offerings
Choosing the Right Training Solutions

Choosing the right training solutions which helps employees to retain more of what they have learnt is key, as this enhances mine safety and productivity. Integrating web-based training, simulation and on-the job training tools will help the mine personnel to be able to work together to extend the life of costly mine equipment.