Modern Mining March 2015

SURFACE MINING CONTRACTING

competent operators. Sister company Murray & Roberts Plant also has ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 accreditation. “This ensures that our operations are safe and controlled, as well as ultimately delivering reliable equipment in terms of both operation and maintenance.” Buitendach adds that Concor Opencast Mining also effectively implements Murray & Roberts Group initiatives such as its STOP. THINK.ACT 24/7 health and safety campaign and its Visible Felt Leadership programme. “Safe production is the ultimate outcome that we need to deliver. If it is unsafe in any aspect, then it is not sustainable.” Looking at its strategy for 2015, Buitendach says that Concor Opencast Mining remains focused on operational excellence, combined with accurate cost management within its oper- ations, in addition to a strong focus on health and safety. Another major focus is active labour engagement. “We are working actively to get closer to our people.” Buitendach adds: “Our ability to achieve excellence in project delivery and safety per- formance also depends on our partners and suppliers. We therefore focus on the proactive management of our construction partners, with Concor Opencast Mining hosting an Open Day to engage with business partners and sub-con- tractors. We distribute a supplier engagement

of mutual interest that are suitable for both of our objectives, we will partner with Downer Mining.” The Australian mining giant has also developed proprietary systems to ensure the efficient and effective utilisation of this ultra- class equipment. “We can combine our local knowledge with Downer Mining’s Tier 1 min- ing practices in order to be able to offer a total solution to the local market,” Buitendach says. In terms of fleet, Concor Opencast Mining has access to Murray & Roberts Plant, a sister company. “We procure equipment for spe- cific projects as contract requirements differ. Our fleet ranges from typical road milling machines through to 120-t excavators and 100-t dump trucks.” Also key to Concor Opencast Mining’s diversification is its move into tailings dam construction, such as a project it is undertaking for a large platinum mine in Limpopo. “We are constructing an impoundment wall. This does not only involve bulk volume placement, but also incorporates detailed compaction place- ment for the interface layer. This is one of the specialised areas we are diversifying into,” Buitendach explains. Concor Opencast Mining has SABS and MQA accreditation as an ISO 9001 training provider, which means it is able to deliver

Undertaking a bulk sample for Sasol in the Waterberg.

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44  MODERN MINING  March 2015