On the face of it, minerals extraction may appear a relatively simple and straightforward process to the unversed. Reserves are identified and applications are made for the go-ahead to remove the earth’s natural riches. But, as we all know, the process is considerably more complex, wrapped up in a rich mix of consultations, legislation and an equal measure of negotiation, all of which can take years.
The UK’s quarrying and mineral products sector is always moving forward and seeking out new ways of doing things that challenge the status quo. These are often achieved through exciting collaborations between quarry operators and suppliers introducing new innovations setting out standards of excellence that become future operational norms.
Major advances in technology are impacting construction industries like never before. In the mineral products sector the application of robotics and automated production processes is reshaping one of the world's largest industries, improving safety and optimising production efficiencies.
Progress in business is often measured by increased profitability. How that progress comes about can be the result of technological advances, improved operating practices, smarter deployment of resources; the list is endless. But the common theme that flows through these incremental gains is invariably innovation, something in which the mineral products and quarrying sector excels.
Knowledge and innovation drive the quarrying and mineral products industries. Discovering smarter ways of doing things is at the heart of the sector’s search for meaningful performance improvements that deliver a real difference to the bottom line.
The Institute of Quarrying Southern Africa (IQSA) celebrated reaching a landmark in its history at this year’s annual conference and exhibition, held in Durban from 11th to 12th April 2019.
Leadership. There are many discussions and activities across the quarrying and mineral extractives sectors around the term, but what does it actually mean? And how is it best to deliver it within an organisation? There is no single right answer for showing leadership but a constant theme in all cases is the need for those in leadership positions to lead by example.
An ageing workforce is an ongoing challenge for the mineral extractives industry, with the average worker in the sector aged 55[1] . So, how is the sector developing the next generation of young talent and creating future leaders?
There’s a lot of talk in business around the subject of personal effectiveness. But what do we mean by the term? And why is it so important? It’s a key part of the Institute of Quarrying’s (IQ) Skills Wheel, a tool that helps identify the full range of competencies for the modern professional working in the minerals extractive and quarrying industries.
There has never been such a focus on driving up standards and professionalism at all levels across the mineral extractives and quarrying sector - from apprentices to chief executives, from multisite international operators to independent local producers. It’s a commercial imperative at a time when standards of health and safety practice are under the spotlight.