Modern Quarrying Q3 2025

(ECSA), so participants can also earn continuous pro fessional development (CPD) points by attending. The unit also presents a shorter course that is tar geted at project coordinators and administration staff. Joughin noted that SRK’s engineers and scientists turn to its Data Services for specific advice, guidance and coaching on developing their own applications and tools. They also use the unit to conduct the more specialised coding and design of applications, to develop the solu tions they require. New solutions “Our input on the digital side has contributed to a range of client projects, including automation tools for the processing and analysis of meteorological data such as humidity, temperature, rainfall and evap oration,” she said. Joughin emphasised that – in addition to making studies and project work more efficient – SRK’s stra tegic integration of digital technologies is also aimed at supporting technical excellence that will develop new solutions. “With larger volumes of more accurate data, and better analytics, we look for ways to reach technical goals that were not achievable in the past,” he said. “This allows us to push the boundaries of science through applied research – which is currently particularly important, for instance, in the field of tailings manage ment.” l

a single computation. The results can be represented graphically to instantly identify high risk areas and define slope design limits. Again, it has improved efficiency in routine analyses with commercially available software – reducing computational time by up to 60%. Integrating data Louw highlighted that the use of digital platforms can also help to integrate data generated by existing tech nologies. In working with mining clients on applying the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), SRK engineers have leveraged their in-house data expertise. “Digital platforms allow us to integrate vibrating wire piezometers and inclinometers, for instance, into a digital framework that enhances data accessibility and usability,” she said. “With near-real-time data collection, mining professionals can better monitor TSF perfor mance, identify potential risks and make informed decisions to ensure safety.” Accredited training To support and empower colleagues with digital insights, the SRK Data Services unit also conducts a training course on digital transformation, including tutorials on programming language Python and analyt ics tool Power BI. The course is accredited by the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) and the Engineering Council of South Africa

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MODERN QUARRYING QUARTER 3 | 2025