Demo specialist transfers expertise to mining

Jet Demolition takes care of health and safety at an open mine. (Photo: Jet Demolition)

Mining houses typically require such a turnkey service for two main scenarios.

Firstly, to seal a shaft permanently as a mitigating factor to prevent unauthorised access by illegal miners or, secondly, to rehabilitate the mining footprint fully, rendering the area safe for public use.

The main requirement for permanent shaft sealing and capping projects is to ensure full compliance with the country’s Mine Health and Safety Act, the provisions of the Department of Mineral Resources, the approved Environmental Management Plan, as well as any client-specific requirements.

The natural surrounding environment also has to be considered, paying special attention to natural water courses and stormwater management. This could mean rerouting natural water courses slightly, while ensuring there is no subsequent negative downstream effect. All material used to fill shafts must be clean and uncontaminated. This is vital to ensure no groundwater contamination after sealing.

“We also offer demolition costing services, assisting large multinational mining clients to determine their demolition liability provisions as part of their eventual closure planning and preparation,” said contracts and project manager Kate Bester.

Jet says it fleet of demolition excavators is differentiated from conventional earthmoving equipment by being adapted to carry specialised demolition tools. These tools are specifically suited to their intended purpose and improve both production and safety. By having access to a variety of fit-for-purpose tools and equipment, projects can be undertaken with minimal interface between workers and risk.

The company is currently undertaking various demolition projects on mining properties. Most of these projects have a large local participation component, whereby the main contractor assists smaller and emerging contractors to undertake specific works packages to acquire knowledge in a safe and controlled environment.

Jet also offers specialised demolition services for large companies.