Global mining simulation and training major Immersive Technologies has announced the winners of its Global Business Improvement Award 2018. This is the tenth year in which Immersive Technologies has recognised “the most outstanding real results achieved by mining companies utilising simulation as a key driver in the business improvement process.”

As part of their ‘Run for Reliability’ program, Peabody Energy, the Surface category winner, targeted multiple objectives related to safety, haul truck spot times, and equipment abuse events that lead to unscheduled maintenance. Peabody and Immersive Technologies partnered on a Managed Service solution which embedded an Immersive Technologies Training Specialist and analytics support within the mine’s continuous improvement team. Results achieved include an 11% spot time improvement and a reduction of 36% in operator induced machine abuse events which led to cost avoidance savings. “Improving safety and managing costs are important components of the Peabody business model, and the continuous improvement process is core to our success. We are pleased that our ‘Run for Reliability’ program was selected as a Global Business Improvement Award winner for 2018,” says Scott Durgin, VP Operations – North Antelope Rochelle Mine.

Codelco at Chuquicamata won the Underground category. It utilised simulation to conduct a baseline training needs assessment of their LHD and Longhole Production Drill Rig operator workforce. The insights from the initial operator assessments facilitated the deployment of a strategic training program, targeting specific operator behaviors. Results achieved include a 49% improvement in LHD and a 56% improvement in jumbo operator behaviors related to safety, production and unscheduled maintenance costs.