Abstract

Hoisting systems are of significant importance to mining operations, supporting personnel transport, equipment handling, and ore/ waste movement.  These functions highlight the safety critical nature, and a well-designed, correctly installed system ensures operational efficiency, as well as safeguarding personnel and the project.  Although it seems obvious that the success of shaft sinking and long-term operational performance of hoisting systems relies on a correct design basis and proper installation, the mining sector still far too often witnesses tragic consequences of neglecting essential requirements.

The key standards, techniques, and processes involved include the importance of collaboration between design teams and site teams, considering quality assurance/ control, constructability, survey requirements and work scope planning.  Design drawings must capture construction information and incorporate lessons learned across the entire project scope.  The completions handover and record-keeping process will support future project implementation and assist with knowledge retention. These considerations are realized following an early, adequate and comprehensive basis of design.  This basis of design must prioritize the projects and hoisting systems’ financial efficiency in the short-term (i.e. shaft sinking stage) and long-term (i.e. production stage).  The significance of the transition from sinking to production phases is key as it impacts both budget and schedule.

The goal of this presentation is to emphasize that by following rigorous standards, best practices, and collaborative processes throughout the design, installation, and commissioning of hoisting systems, mining projects can ensure minimal disruptions. If the involvement from the project team starts at the design phase and ends at the handover phase, then adhering to integrated hold points throughout the Engineering-Procurement-Construction phases ensures that shaft sinking projects and underground mining operations can mitigate financial risks, safeguard personnel and protect project schedules and productivity.