Modern Quarrying Q1 2025

BEST PRACTICE: Bulk handling specialists who conduct a site specific analysis before any training sessions.

Bulk-handling conveyors are massive, powerful systems that move tons of material per hour in complex networks over long distances. By Jerad Heitzler, Training Manager - Martin Engineering and Todd Swinderman, P.E. and CEO Emeritus - Martin Engineering. KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL CONVEYOR SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE TRAINING W hether the systems are in a mine, cement plant, port, or quarry, their size, speed, and power present the risk of catastrophic injury in the blink of an eye. This makes training essential, no matter what activity is happening around a conveyor. Training challenges Many industries are facing the retirement of workers with expertise and knowledge, leaving them without adequate mentorship. This has good and bad aspects. Although basic on-the-job training passed down from worker to worker is valuable, it can leave organisations vulnerable to past workers teaching bad habits. Unless the operations personnel have solid, real-world knowledge in bulk material handling to make educated decisions when addressing problems, bad habits are easily perpetuated. Knowledge needs to help

CONVEYING

maintenance workers avoid costly and dangerous trial-and-error learning. Understanding how and why accidents happen is also critical in preventing them from occurring. Having knowledgeable trainers who address the symptoms of problems with workable long-term solutions will reduce unsafe practices and improve efficiency while enhancing profitability. Seek deeper understanding In many operations, there is a lack of qualified conveyor trainers. Equipment vendors and third-party trainers can be highly effective sources of training. However, with hundreds of companies provid ing such services, expertise and approaches can vary widely. Training specialists from equip ment manufacturers who offer training programmes, like Martin Engineering, focus on overall conveyor performance and safety training. Combining deep industry experience and modern engineering will significantly improve operating decisions, resulting in higher pro ductivity, fewer safety incidents, and reduced unplanned outages. Qualified teachers should provide a variety of delivery methods based

SNAPSHOT

Many industries are facing the retirement of workers with expertise and knowledge, leaving them without adequate mentorship.

Training specialists from equipment manufacturers who offer training programmes, like Martin Engineering, focus on overall conveyor performance and safety training.

Qualified teachers should provide a variety of delivery methods based on different learning styles.

Martin trainers use the most effective training approach, which examines a plant’s specific conveyor challenges and helps companies run cleaner, safer, and more productive operations by treating the root causes of their problems.

MODERN QUARRYING QUARTER 1 | 2025 56