Training of load haul dump (LHD) machine operators: a case study at LKAB’s Kiirunavaara mine

ABSTRACT

Mining is a high-risk industry, so efficiency and safety are key priorities. Technological advancements, such as digitisation, digitalisation, and automation have made mines safer. These developments have also highlighted the need for operators with updated skills and improved education programs. This study analysed the training of semi-autonomous and manual Load Haul Dump (LHD) operators’ at LKAB’s Kiirunavaara mine, focusing on operators’ training, perspective and integration of more recent tool such as simulator training. The survey questionnaire was sent to all 120 LHD operators. 86 answers were received, giving response rate of 70%. Results showed that operators generally were satisfied with how the training was structured, organised, and delivered. However, they wanted to add more topics, including practical loading, spending time with departments of other sub-processes, etc. In addition, 36% of the operators, including 20% of those operating semi-autonomous LHDs, and 80% of those operating manual LHDs, found simulator training difficult.

KEYWORDS:

• Training
• Underground
• Simulators
• Mining education
• LHD
• Training method
• Underground mining equipment
• Operator training

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge the financial support from Luossavaara-Kiirunavaara AB (LKAB), Sweden, through the SUM (Sustainable Underground Mining) Academy programme, and the Next Generation Carbon Neutral Pilots for Smart Intelligent Mining Systems (NEXGEN SIMS) funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme. The staff and management at the Kiirunavaara mine are also acknowledged, especially all LHD operators and managers who voluntarily participated in the survey and interviews, as well as Robert Larsson and Åke Andersson who gave valuable input and support.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Luossavaara-Kiirunavaara AB (LKAB), Sweden, through the SUM (Sustainable Underground Mining) Academy Programme; Next Generation Carbon Neutral Pilots for Smart Intelligent Mining Systems (NEXGEN SIMS) through the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under agreement number 101003591.