A Costly Mistake Narrowly Avoided
Early in the shift, a routine equipment check nearly turned into an expensive disaster. A pump was found to be overfilled with engine oil, a situation that could have caused extreme pressure and resulted in catastrophic engine failure.
Recognising the risk in time, the call was made to drain excess oil immediately. The decision likely saved a six-figure engine and prevented major downtime. The moment served as a clear reminder of why double-checking machinery is essential in large-scale mining operations, where even a small oversight can have massive financial consequences.
Training Gaps Come Into Focus
The incident also highlighted a deeper issue: inexperience. Some crew members had been placed into roles they were still learning, without enough hands-on time to feel fully confident. Rather than assigning blame, the situation was handled as a learning opportunity.
It was acknowledged that if someone has not been properly trained, mistakes are inevitable. The solution was simple but practical—give them more time, more guidance, and slightly adjusted responsibilities until they are ready.
New Assignments in the Super Pit
Following the close call, attention shifted to the Super Pit, where Kendra and Sienna had been reassigned to operate rock trucks. With heavy machinery moving in tight quarters, spacing and radio communication were critical.
As multiple trucks entered the cut, concerns quickly emerged about how close they were operating to one another—an unsafe situation that could have led to a serious accident.
A Tense Safety Intervention
When one truck failed to stop immediately after a radio command, the situation escalated. Operations were halted on the spot, and the driver was instructed to exit the vehicle.
The message was direct and uncompromising: when a stop command is given, it must be obeyed instantly. Delayed reactions, incorrect radio channels, or poor spacing between vehicles can put lives at risk.
After confirming that the radio issue had caused confusion rather than defiance, the incident was downgraded from a formal write-up to a verbal warning.
Fear, Pressure, and the Desire to Stay
Later, it became clear how intimidating the moment had been for the driver involved. She admitted feeling scared and overwhelmed, worried that a mistake could cost her the opportunity to remain on site.
Despite the pressure, she expressed a strong desire to stay, learn, and prove herself—describing the worksite as a place she wanted to continue calling home.
Leadership Under Scrutiny
Reflecting on the incident, the focus turned to leadership. Rather than claiming authority or perfection, the emphasis was placed on accountability and respect.
Being a good boss, it was noted, is not something a leader decides for themselves. It is something employees determine through actions—especially in moments where safety, discipline, and fairness collide.
