This article has been supplied.Mining in South Africa is primarily conducted through alluvial, opencast, and underground mining methods, with underground mining generally being the most capital-intensive.
How often do we hear or read about accidents occurring in underground mines? When such incidents occur, they often result in injuries or fatalities involving employees and other persons working underground who become trapped or are affected by events such as explosions, fires, or flooding. Despite stringent health and safety legislation and compliance requirements within the mining industry, accidents do occur. These incidents are invariably traumatic experiences for everyone involved.
Out of sight, but not out of risk
When it comes to construction plant and equipment operating in underground mines, the considerations differ significantly from those relating to human life and safety. This is where Consort focuses on the highly specialised equipment, mobile plant, and tools operating within this sector.
The risk of loss of or damage to plant and equipment used underground is generally regarded and rated as significantly higher than that of similar equipment operating above ground. Furthermore, the severity of underground losses can be substantially greater and more complex, depending on the circumstances.
