Modern Quarrying January-February 2015

FACE TO FACE WITH ASPASA

limit exposure and effectively avoid pedestrian fatalities. “Another effective measure that can be imple- mented is managing operator and worker fatigue. By making them aware of the dangers of over-tiredness, we can reinforce safer working practices and prevent the kind of accidents we commonly see as a result of clouded thinking, or falling asleep at the wheel of a machine.” Van den Berg’s concern is that Mosh has started inviting Aspasa to workshops but not to the feedback sessions from industry. “Nor are we being kept informed of the progress of these trials. We have not been invited to the next round of Mosh talks and if the leading prac- tices are confirmed and accepted, then we will be left out in the cold. We therefore appeal to Mosh and to the MHSC to drop the one-size-fits-all approach to safety on our mines and our quarries.” Pienaar adds that other important issues include industry- specific training that is not being properly addressed by the vari- ous SETAs. “In the coming years, our industry will also need to adapt to changes relating to electricity and water shortages, tough envi- ronmental and company legislation, crime, corruption and other pressures that are placed on us. Only through the unity of our members and through the involvement of all in the construc- tion materials mining sector, will we be able to sustain a positive future for this sector. As Aspasa, our mission remains to continue building positive relationships with relevant government depart- ments, while also fighting for the rights of companies within our industry. We will continue to look after the health and wellbeing of employees within the industry, and caring for the environment which we leave behind for future generations.” Regional conduit Discussing regional structures, Pienaar is appealing to mem- bers and role-players within the aggregate industry to support Aspasa’s regional structures and in so doing facilitate better communication between members. This will also enable a faster response to localised opportunities and threats. Regional chair- persons and committees are used as a conduit between local producers and the Association in order to identify operational requirements relating to regulatory, training and other require- ments; as well as playing an increasingly important role in facili- tating discussions with all role-players. Pienaar emphasises that the regional chairperson is chosen from the Association’s membership in each region, and tasks are performed on a voluntary basis.“However, the role that they play is critical in moving the entire industry forward and their work is expected to positively impact on the success of their region. “For this reason, we are appealing to members, associate members and industry suppliers to find out who the local Aspasa chairperson is, and to work actively with them in improving the industry in their respective regions.” The chairperson is also expected to establish a sound work- ing relationship with local DMR representatives and in many instances, will be able to directly address regulatory or law enforcement issues directly before escalating problems to the national structures, where required.

The number and type of machines used in quarries are very different to those found in the Mosh studies, which is aimed at mines of all sizes and types.

“Quarry operators and other role players can also speak to their local Aspasa chairperson to find out more information about the Association’s health, safety and environmental audits. They should attend regional meetings to stay abreast of national issues and opportunities that may affect their businesses,” he says. “We realise that our Association is only as strong as our members’ input, and we therefore encourage member companies to sup- port regional initiatives that are being established to ensure that our industry remains buoyant and successful in the future.” Report and pictures, unless otherwise credited, by Dale Kelly

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MODERN QUARRYING

January - February 2015