Despite the popular belief that the proliferation of mechanised mines in the African mining industry will lead to job losses, mechanised mining does generate new employment opportunities, albeit indirectly through the maintenance, logistics, spare parts transportation, fuel requirements and other supporting services like training, explains mining equipment and services provider Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology business development manager for Southern Africa Andrew Main.
Sandvik is assisting in creating indirect employment opportunities through its manufacturing facility in South Africa, where it produces load and haul equipment. The facility was launched in September this year and employs 15 people. There will be local indirect supply chain opportunities for this manufacturing facility.
“Yes, fewer people will work on mines, owing to mechanisation, but the employment that remains will be more rewarding and provide higher income-earning opportunities. The increased mechanisation of mines will also place operations in a better position to be sustainable for the longer term, benefiting the communities that surround them through the resultant improved profitability,” he states.
Main points out that the jobs associated with mechanised mining will also require different skill levels. Sandvik has 25 trainers at its Jet Park training facility, in Gauteng, accredited by the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority.
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