Xstrata, owners of one of the world’s largest zinc, lead and silver mines announced that expansion of the McArthur River Mining (MRM) project will deliver more benefits and additional mining jobs for the Northern Territory than first anticipated.
On 31st January 2012, Xstrata said its project will increase MRM`s operational workforce by 67%, creating 295 new mine jobs when in operation. The additional mining workforce brings the total mining job figure to 735, which should be realised by 2020 when the project hits its peak. The initial estimate saw 550 mine jobs being created.
Xstrata Zinc Australia Chief Operating Officer Mr Brian Hearne said: “Our earlier estimates have now gone through the robust process of an EIS and we`re looking at being able to offer more mining jobs, a longer mine life and greater financial investment into the community in which we operate and the Northern Territory and Australian economies.”�
In addition to mining job creation, the intention to extend operation to 2036 has added nine years to the life of the mine. Swiss owned Xstrata said plans include building a temporary construction camp and expanding existing accommodation facilities to accommodate the growing workforce .
Standard 11 and managing risk
Peter Evans, Managing Director of a Gold Coast based mining information provider, says the announcement is one more indication of where the economy finds its strength at the moment. He added the Standard 11 Induction (S11) that`s required by most, if not all, mining companies, provides people with risk management skills that miners, such as Xsrata, like to see. “The S11 takes three days to complete and is readily available for most people. It`s a good starting point that teaches risk management practices all mining companies demand before new workers can commence their mining job.”� he said.
Xstrata – McArthur River mining jobs
