Modern Mining July 2025

COVER STORY

Polyurethane roll in double facing machine.

Brelko streamlined for success

By Nelendhre Moodley

The rise in cyberattacks and data breaches in recent years has impacted several businesses across various sectors. Some of the victims of cyberattacks include the government agencies South African Airways, Transnet and Cell C. This is a clear reason for businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity defences and guard against emerging threats, says Brelko MD, Kenny Padayachee, who recently appointed an IT and Projects Director.

F ormer business analyst, Michelle Padayachee, has upped the ante for the Johannesburg-based business, upgrading the company’s software and security systems and driving the agenda to streamline Brelko’s manufacturing processes and equipping the workforce with relevant IT skills. “Michelle brings to the business skills sets that Brelko has thus far been lacking. Aside from her vested interest, the business benefits from her experience of working in the corporate world at firms with an international footprint. Since joining, Michelle has identified systems challenges and offered solutions for Brelko’s manufacturing process,” Kenny tells Modern Mining . Armed with two degrees – a BSc (Physiology) and a BCom Cum Laude specialising in Insurance and Risk Management and Human Resources - Michelle has established seamless cybersecurity integration across all departments. “As organisations rely heavily on technology for their daily operations, managing and preventing cybersecurity threats is a critical challenge for businesses. As it is, there is a dramatic increase in cyber incidents globally. Investing in security systems is essential for preventing financial, legal, and reputational damage.” The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research estimates financial losses of up to R2.2 billion per annum to the South African economy because of cyber-crime.

“Being in the field of insurance and risk management for more than a decade and thereafter as a business analyst for international insurance software companies, has given me the edge in handling issues around software security. As a one-stop shop for conveyor belt cleaning equipment, Brelko has several manufacturing processes at play. Always aiming for better, we have identified gaps in the business, fine-tuned process flows in each department and implemented best practice. More recently, we completed a review of over 300 ISO documents, revised our policies and procedures in line with latest developments and aligned our software licence renewals to take place on a pre-determined date. Importantly, we can now erase all data and settings remotely from a device if it is lost or stolen - this ensures data integrity and security,” explains Michelle. Investment in IT and software security has increased efficiency and cost effectiveness, adds Kenny. Upskilling employees In tandem with boosting its security systems, Brelko is investing in IT related training for its workforce and has implemented several initiatives, including an email and password policy and disaster recovery plan. “Brelko has deployed modern communication processes to ensure that staff at the various departments are informed of the latest developments in real time. Microsoft Teams is now the

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