As you step by way of the doorway of the Westgold Coaching Centre, you rapidly see the dedication to sensible, hands-on studying. The power spans an expansive space, housing a fastidiously curated vary of simulations and coaching modules – with gear donated from the Westgold mines.
All new Westgold underground and processing workers (together with contractors) are inducted on the centre. Those that have already got operational expertise, or these in administration, would possibly solely spend a day right here. Nonetheless, inexperienced employees who’re new to the business will spend a minimum of three days on the facility, studying about what to anticipate once they arrive on the mine website for the primary time.
The center of the power is the underground mine simulation, that carefully replicates the distinctive situations miners face as soon as they enter the portal. It’s darkish, with underground sound results, offering the impression of an actual underground atmosphere.
Through the recruits’ go to to the mine simulation, they’re uncovered to the varied companies used within the mine, are supplied with an appreciation of the varied floor assist strategies, and even view a blast being detonated as that is projected in opposition to one of many screens contained in the simulator.
Security is vital underground and through an emergency response state of affairs, trainees should don their self-rescuers and use their cap lamps to navigate smoke (generated artificially) and discover their option to an emergency refuge chamber.
As soon as contained in the 12-person refuge chamber, the brand new recruits acclimatise themselves to their scenario. It’s an unimaginable studying second and an effective way to emphasize that security of our individuals is a precedence in every little thing they do. Because the Coaching Coordinator, Andy McCullough succinctly states – “Security begins right here”.
Operating by way of these situations in the end ensures that when these recruits lastly step onto a Westgold mine, they accomplish that with elevated confidence and data, and able to successfully establish and mitigate any dangers and hazards.
