In a remarkable engineering achievement, LH Marthinusen (LHM) successfully transformed an existing mine lift shaft into a fully functional ventilation shaft for a platinum mine, completing the project on schedule. This innovative solution not only met strict ventilation standards but also allowed underground mining operations to continue smoothly as platinum prices soared in 2025.
The Urgent Need for Ventilation
Ventilation is essential for underground mining. Without sufficient airflow, mines cannot operate safely — and it is a legal obligation enforced by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR). In 2025, as platinum prices increased sharply, the client approached LHM with an urgent requirement: enable immediate airflow underground, or risk not being able to expand underground operations to capitalise on the price increases, or even worse, a full mine shutdown.
A Unique Solution: Repurposing a Lift Shaft
Traditionally, creating a new ventilation shaft involves drilling a substantial hole up to two kilometres deep and eight metres in diameter—a costly and time-consuming process. LHM, however, identified an unconventional opportunity: repurposing an existing lift shaft, typically used for transporting workers and materials, into an air passage. This was a first for both LHM and the wider mining industry.
