First Mining Zambia Sept/Oct edition | Page 37

FEATURE

FEATURE

Tecknotrove brings VR training to Mines

Safety in the mining industry is

a vital issue . Many workers are injured in mine-related accidents and some die every day . Inadequate or insufficient training is often cited as a root cause for many mining fatalities .
However , hands-on training in direct working environment provides only limited real-life opportunities and often fails to make a significant impact within the tense working environment itself .
Tecknotrove develops Virtual realitybased training programs that enables trainees to practice in the realmine working conditions without the associated risks . The VR training prepares workers for entry into confined spaces .
Trainees acquire all knowledge required to perform in confined spaces safely and efficiently . VR headset and controller immerse the learner quickly into the virtual environment and ensures engagement during training . The VR program allows the trainees to practice repeatedly with in a safe environment until they master the skill . Special attention is given to gas measurement , personal protective equipment , and emergency procedures during training .
Upon successful completion of program trainees are be able to
• Assess a confined space for entry ,
• Prepare themselves for working in confined spaces
• Safely use equipment and personal protective equipment ,
• Work confined space in accordance with procedures
• Manage Emergency situations in confined spaces .

Cleaning up liquid spills at mines

Strict health and safety regulations

in the mining industry mean that any liquid spills in workshop areas or elsewhere need to be cleaned quickly and effectively . This is where a completely natural , mineral product called Gunge Spunge ® is playing a major role . Produced by South African manufacturer Pratley , Gunge Spunge ® is the ideal product for cleaning up any liquid spills , including petrol , diesel , oil , sewage and other nuisance liquids .
Sawdust and other flammable materials were traditionally used to clean up highly combustible hydrocarbons . This is not only ineffective but also potentially hazardous . In fact , many mines and municipal by-laws now prohibit their use . Gunge Spunge ® offers the ideal solution in that it is extremely effective , non-flammable
Gunge Spunge ® is the ideal product for cleaning up any liquid spills .
Pratley Marketing Director Eldon Kruger and eco-friendly , explains Pratley Marketing Manager Eldon Kruger . Gunge Spunge ® is processed from a specific mineral that is 100 % naturally occurring and is completely non-toxic . Apart from its desiccating properties , whereby it absorbs moisture in confined areas prone to damp , it also has cation absorption properties , allowing it to absorb rather than mask odours . This ensures that odours are eliminated for good .
Extensive testing by Pratley ’ s worldclass research and development team has proven the application of Gunge Spunge ® in arduous operating environments such as mines . Gunge Spunge ® is supplied in 12 kg bags , although special arrangements can be made for the larger quantities required by the mining industry in particular .
www . fmdrc-Zambia . com 35