• MINING INDABA
However , achieving compliance has been far from straightforward . The technical complexity of CPS implementation has demanded rigorous coordination among various stakeholders , including mining companies , Original Equipment Manufacturers ( OEMs ), Operational Technology Managers ( OTMs ), unions , government departments including the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy ( DMRE ) at the time – now , the Department of Minerals and Petroleun Resources ( DMPR ), Mine Health and Safety Council , international bodies ICMM ( International Council of Mining and Metals ), EMESRT ( Earth-Moving Equipment Safety Round Table ), international technology bodies and academic and research institutions . This collaborative effort ensures a shared responsibility for developing , installing , maintaining and improving CPS technologies .
Aside from collaboration , the many stakeholders located across the country required a clear understanding of the technical aspects and alignment on interpretation of the TMM regulations . This , to a large extent , was achieved through the regional workshops that were conducted by the Minerals Council ’ s MOSH ( Mining Industry Occupation Safety and Health ) T & M ( Transport & Machinery ) team . A process map ( Figure 1 ) designed by the team represents a defined guidance pathway for mines to follow when reviewing their individual status towards compliance with the TMM regulations . 1
It is important to note that further work is being done through the special project on the following 2 :
• Data gathering and case study development : Comprehensive collection of data and development of case studies to inform localisation strategies and operational compatibility of CPS components .
• Mine site visits : Conducting on-site assessments to test ambient environments , specifically evaluating the impacts of electromagnetic interference ( EMI ) and electromagnetic compatibility ( EMC ) on CPS performance .
• Test specification refinement : Updating CPS Test Specification Verification parameters based on lessons learned in previous project phases to enhance reliability and applicability .
• Stakeholder engagement : Ongoing collaboration with key stakeholders , including OEMs and mining operators , to align on critical issues and attain consensus on localisation priorities .
• Technical guides development : Producing expert-informed guidance on essential CPS aspects , such as " Fail to Safe Without Human Intervention ," ensuring operational safety and compliance .
• Learning from lived experiences : Undertaking technical mine site visits to gather first-hand insights into the practical challenges and solutions encountered by mines , OEMs , and
Image by jKadzo on Freepilk
30 • African Mining • January 2025 www . africanmining . co . za