In order to verify that functional procedures are being carried out correctly and promote process improvements, Vale is conducting a pilot program for managing operational processes. The project is taking place at Abóboras Mine, at the Vargem Grande Complex in Minas Gerais (Brazil).
Vale’s Basic Operational Guidelines, which already apply to the company’s railroads, will also be tested in the mining area from now until the end of the year. The guidelines consist of checking processes by means of efficiency and performance tests, carried out by managers together with operational workers.
Guidelines enable standardization
The Abóboras Mine guidelines feature some innovations not present in the railroad guidelines, such as: the formation of multi-functional study groups made up of operational workers; mechanical guidelines; operational training; and workplace safety.
One of the key features of the guidelines is that they will unify operational, safety and environmental procedures. Compliance with operational standards is important, since it enables established goals to be achieved. The Basic Operational Guidelines will help standardize operating procedures, train operators in procedures and reduce the number of accidents involving people and equipment.