Ageing Equipment & Bad Actors

Ageing equipment is more prone to mechanical failures, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries for workers. This equipment will require more frequent maintenance and repairs, leading to increased downtime, maintenance costs and decreased operational efficiency. Additionally, when equipment bad actors are not recognized and managed, fleet performance suffers immediately. Like a cut-off grade for the ore body, ageing (or poorly maintained) equipment reaches a point where it is no longer profitable to operate.

In addition to the individual piece of equipment, these bad-actor units reduce fleet performance to the lowest common denominator by slowing the mining cycle. Furthermore, older equipment often lacks the latest technology and replacement parts become less available or cost prohibitive.

As equipment ages, the necessary training for operators must be available to understand the nuances of operating such equipment. Implementing predictive maintenance programs that utilize data analytics and sensors can also help to identify potential equipment failures before they occur, reducing repair costs when equipment ceases to function as well as enhancing safety for workers.

Key Client Challenges:

1. How can we extend the lifespan of our ageing equipment without compromising safety and efficiency?
2. What are the key indicators of equipment deterioration or potential failures, and how can we monitor them effectively?
3. What modernization and upgrade options are available for our ageing equipment, and what is the return on investment for such improvements?
4. How can we implement predictive maintenance strategies to reduce unplanned downtime and maintenance costs?
5. What training and skill development programs can we offer our workforce to ensure safe and responsible equipment operation and maintenance?
6. What safety protocols and measures can we implement to mitigate the risks associated with bad actors operating machinery irresponsibly?
7. How can we enhance security measures to prevent theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access to equipment and facilities?

With ageing equipment, promoting a strong safety culture within the organization, including safety protocols, reporting mechanisms, and incentives for responsible behavior can help to mitigate risks associated. Additionally, by transitioning to newer equipment gradually and leveraging data analytics, predictive maintenance and artificial intelligence, operators can more effectively detect unusual patterns in equipment usage, staving off accidents and irresponsible equipment usage.

Our experts at Unison Mining can assist your team with developing the processes, systems and KPIs needed to reinforce this safety culture in a sustainable way. With new ways of working incentivized at every organizational level, your team is set up to better maintain equipment, with more accountability and responsibility.