The mining industry, like many other industries, has experienced the challenges of high employee turnover. Finding and keeping skilled labour is a challenge — especially heavy equipment operators. Technology can be a valuable tool and offers a solution when it comes to employee retention and engagement.
With immersive and interactive experiences, technology can enhance job skills, increase motivation, and boost overall job satisfaction. Using technologies like simulators, VR (virtual reality) and other digital mediums to train employees can build knowledge, confidence and skills, all while reducing turnover.
AUTHOR:
Annette Kiesewetter, Simformotion
Other technologies like grade control, autonomous systems and robotic operations can reduce operator stress by increasing productivity and efficiency.
Video courses can introduce employees to an industry, machine, or tool. Often basic, a video course can help the learner with nomenclature, images, and some ‘how-to’ steps. Virtual training courses can focus on both learners and instructors. These web-based courses are often streamed in real-time then saved in a library of on-demand courses.
Curriculum (web based or integrated LMS) can be used in the classroom or online or a combination of both. A quality curriculum has a standards-based sequence of learning where students/learners can practice and achieve proficiency which they then prove through assessments.
For example, Simformotion, the licensee for Cat Simulators, offers SimScholars curriculum as a companion 1:1 match with each simulator model. The turnkey curriculum includes instructor plans, learner guidance, how-to steps, lessons, quizzes, videos and more.
Simulation and AR (augmented reality) are additional training options available via a tablet or phone app. AR overlays digital content onto the real world, enhancing the user’s perception and interaction with their surroundings.
Simulators offer hands-on training — without taking tools or machines out of production. Look for authentic controls and specific techniques so the learner can practice on the simulator then transition to the real machine.
By providing comprehensive and realistic hands-on training experiences, simulators can help operators build confidence and competence, reducing turnover caused by early job dissatisfaction or inadequate training.
Available for individual training or integrated with a simulator, VR experiences create a fully immersive experience in a virtual environment and replicate real-world scenarios.
VR simulations can be used to train employees in complex tasks, enhance teamwork and collaboration or provide realistic job overviews.
Telematics systems can be installed on heavy equipment to collect and analyse data on various aspects of the machine’s operation such as fuel consumption, equipment utilisation and operator performance. The data can provide insights into operator behaviour, identify areas for improvement and help optimise equipment usage. Organisations can improve performance, reduce equipment downtime and enhance job satisfaction by monitoring equipment then providing operators with feedback and coaching based on data-driven insights.
Implementing operator assistance systems such as collision avoidance, fatigue monitoring or equipment automation can improve safety and reduce stress for heavy equipment operators. These systems can detect potential risks or hazards and provide warnings or automated responses to mitigate accidents or injuries.
Consider your organisation’s specific needs and goals, available resources and technical requirements when choosing technology. An investment in technology can pay off in employee retention and engagement.
