As profitability in the mining industry is increasingly subjected to challenges, it is essential for today’s operators to ensure that every link in the operational chain is functioning to the highest level in order to optimise productivity.
During periods of sustained growth the mining sector generally faces substantial productivity losses, as production becomes the main objective in order to meet increased customer demand. An Ernst & Young (E&Y) report titled ‘Business risks facing mining and metals 2015–2016’ categorises this as a ‘production at any cost’ philosophy.