Aggregates Manager August 2019

Clean conveying PG20

|

Workplace exams PG28

| Geology on Mars PG32

August 2019 | www.AggMan.com

Your guide to profitable production

15 Avoid highwall hazards 24

Leverage technology for your scale

— Smarter. Faster. Empowered.

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John Deere ups the ante with more horsepower in its new 850L dozer.

PAGE 7

On Our Cover: How do you attract millennials to the aggregates industry?

Ask Dave Turin.

Cover illustration by Sandy Turner

Digital notifications show service providers what part of the scale has an error, allowing for quick repairs.

PAGE 24

TABLE OF CONTENTS AUGUST 2019 |

VOLUME 24, NUMBER 8

FEATURE ARTICLES

10 Dozer Dave’s Advice on Hiring

Dave Turin shares his guidance on how to attract millennials to the construction materials industry.

20 Improve Conveyor Housekeeping

A well-designed transfer point contains material for cleaner, safer, and more productive conveying.

24 Maintain Your Scale with Digital Technology Leveraging data will be the future game changer in efficiency as the scale industry continues to evolve.

COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS 3 Editorial Create a good value proposition.

4 Data Mining The latest financial analysis of issues impacting in the industry and Aggregates Manager’s exclusive aggregates industry outlook.

7 RollOuts Volvo’s expanded productivity series, and other new equipment for the aggregates market.

28 Rock Law The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals writes another chapter in the ongoing saga of workplace exams.

30 Advertiser Index See who’s who and where to find their products.

OPERATIONS ILLUSTRATED

15

Avoid Highwall Hazards

Inspections, using technology or a well-trained supervisor, are key to identifying potential hazards in your quarry.

31 Classified Ads Aggregates industry classifieds.

32 Carved in Stone Four rovers and one stationary robot explore the surface — and geology — of Mars.

JohnDeere.com/Elevate

ELEVATE YOUR LOAD-OUT GAME. INTRODUCING THE 844L AGGREGATE HANDLER. Compared to its predecessor, the 844L Aggregate Handler consumes less fuel, plus features increased first-gear rim pull and a dedicated hydraulic pump for steering and lifting that enable quicker cycles. That means more trucks loaded out on less fuel in a day. And with a larger cab for all-day comfort, you’ll see how all the L-Series Production-Class Loaders can help you Run Your World.

August 2019

EDITORIAL

Vol. 24, No. 8

by Therese Dunphy, Editor-in-Chief, tdunphy@randallreilly.com

aggman.com /AggregatesManager /AggManEditor

Editorial Editor-in-Chief: Therese Dunphy Editorial Director: Marcia Gruver Doyle Senior Editor: Kerry Clines Online Editor: Wayne Grayson editorial@aggman.com

Design & Production Art Director: Sandy Turner, Jr. Production Designer: Timothy Smith Advertising Production Manager: Leah Boyd production@aggman.com

Construction Media Vice President, Construction Media: Joe Donald sales@randallreillyconstruction.com

3200 Rice Mine Rd NE Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 800-633-5953 randallreilly.com

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For change of address and other subscription inquiries, please contact: aggregatesmanager@halldata.com.

Aggregates Manager TM magazine (ISSN 1552-3071) is published monthly by Randall-Reilly, LLC copyright 2019. Executive and Administrative offices, 3200 Rice Mine Rd. N.E., Tuscaloosa, AL 35406. Subscription rates: $24 annually, Non-domestic $125 annually. Single copies: $7. We assume no responsibility for the validity of claims of manufacturers in any advertisement or editorial product information or literature offered by them.

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Create a Good Value Proposition

M

any aggregate producers are good neighbors in their communities: they offer good jobs; they run responsible operations; they give back to their communities. But rarely is a dollar value correlated to that business model, at least until now.

In its recently released Sustainability Report 2018, LafargeHolcim lays out many of these benefits via a triple bottom line, which includes the company’s “contribution to local economies through the multiplied effect of salaries, taxes, and social investment.” For example, the company had retained 2018 financial earnings of $3.03 billion, but shows an additional $2.2 billion in stakeholder value created via contributions.

In terms of sustainability, the company sets performance targets which align to four strategic pillars — climate and energy, circular economy, environment, and community.

In the climate and energy pillar, the company set goals to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Since 1990, it has reduced its carbon emissions per ton of cement by 25 percent. It is also looking for ways to improve energy efficiency through the use of wind turbines and solar panel farms. At its Paulding, Ohio, cement plant, for example, it began construction of three wind turbines that will generate 12 million kilowatt hours a year and eliminate a minimum of 9,900 tons of carbon dioxide. It also created three annual scholarships that will go to local high school graduates pursuing STEM degrees as long as the wind turbines are active.

LafargeHolcim hit a new record in its goal for circular economy, or reuse of waste materials. It reused 57 million tons of waste materials in 2018. In its aggregates, readymixed concrete, and asphalt businesses alone, it used 12 million tons of recycled material, mostly aggregates.

The company’s environment pillar focuses on reduction of freshwater withdrawal.

In addition to having reduced water withdrawal in its cement plants by 19 percent over the last four years, it has also identified quarries of high biodiversity importance and put biodiversity management plans in place at 84 percent of those 283 quarries.

The last pillar, community, is measured by the number of new beneficiaries each year.

In 2018, the company spent $48.3 million on social investments, inclusive business programs, and donations. In addition, 8,700 employees volunteered more than 60,000 hours in their local communities.

These results are eye opening. By capturing the value of its efforts, the company has demonstrated just how good of a neighbor it can be. Obviously, this would be helpful with permitting, but may also attract millennials to their ranks (see the Special Report on p. 10 for more details). By addressing two of the industry’s major pain points, LafargeHolcim isn’t just doing what’s right, it’s doing what’s smart. AM

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

3

mining

Company Cemex, S.A.B. de C.V.

Diesel Fuel

Prices 7/8/19

United States $3.055 One Week +0.013  One Year -0.188

Central Atlantic $3.275 One Week +0.005  One Year -0.130 

Lower Atlantic $2.940 One Week -0.001  One Year -0.172 

Midwest $2.968 One Week +0.044  One Year -0.208 

Gulf Coast $2.804 One Week +0.001  One Year -0.200 

Rocky Mountain $2.980 One Week -0.018  One Year -0.390 

West Coast $3.624 One Week -0.004  One Year -0.125 

West Coast less California $3.208 One Week +0.003  One Year -0.263 

California $3.953 One Week -0.010  One Year -0.017  Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (dollars per gallon, prices include all taxes).

$3.94

$7.60

$32.92 

$24.41

$34.69

EXP

$86.93 

$57.00

$111.42

Granite Construction Inc.

GVA

$46.86 

$38.55

$58.93

HEI

$75.18 

$58.29

$83.36

$9.61 

$7.96

$10.63

HCMLY

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.

MLM

$228.94 

$150.75

$232.81

MDU Resources Group, Inc.

MDU

$26.14 

$22.73

$29.50

Summit Materials

SUM

$18.85 

$11.25

$27.13

United States Lime & Minerals, Inc.

USLM

$84.25 

$68.20

$84.58

U.S. Concrete

USCR

$49.57 

$27.68

$55.25

Vulcan Materials Co.

VMC

$137.93 

$82.52

$140.00

Source: Wall Street Journal Market Watch. Currency conversion calculated on date of close 7/9/19.

East Coast $3.081

One Week -0.001  One Year -0.145 

$4.01 

52-Week High

CRG

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

One Week +0.001  One Year -0.157 

New England $3.134

52-Week Low

CRH plc

HeidelbergCement AG

U.S.

CX

Current Value

Eagle Materials Inc.

LafargeHolcim Ltd. ADR

On-Highway

Ticker

L

afargeHolcim (HCMLY) reported an increase of 6.4 percent in like-for-like net sales, an over-proportional increase in recurring EBITDA (which was up 20.6 percent), and an increase in the profitability of all business segments during the first quarter. At the same time, the company significantly reduced debt and confirmed its 2019 targets.

“We had a very strong start of the year, and I am especially pleased to see our strong sales growth and an over-proportional increase in profitability. Our momentum is very positive, and the first quarter of 2019 is the third consecutive quarter with recurring EBITDA growing faster than net sales,” said CEO Jan Jenisch, in a press release.

The North America region had a good start to the year, marked by volume growth and several multi-year construction conLafargeHolcim (HCMLY) tracts in the order book. The region was also reported to have made further progress on its cost savings program.

The company has a $403 million SG&A cost savings program, which supported the quarter’s performance.

The Aggregates and Readymix Concrete business segments continued to improve margins and to close the gap to best-in-class performance.

The company made four bolt-on acquisitions in North America, Australia, and Europe. At the same time, it divested its assets in South East Asia, which were achieved at what the company describes as “very attractive valuations.”

Targets for 2019 include net sales growth of 3 to 5 percent on a like-for-like basis, recurring EBITDA growth of at least 5 percent on a like-for-like basis, ratio of net debt to recurring EBITDA two times or less by the end of 2019, continue improving cash conversion, and capex and bolt-on acquisitions of less than $2 billion.

“We have delivered on the promised strengthening of our balance sheet, and we are on track to accelerate the execution of our Strategy 2022 – ‘Building for Growth,’” Jenisch said. “Our momentum in the past three quarters, a solid global market demand, and the ambitions of our teams give us great confidence for reaching our targets for the full year. TDA to improve in the following quarters and end 2019 at a higher level than in 2018.”

Source: Market Watch

Data

STOCK REPORT

AGGREGATES INDUSTRY OUTLOOK For a second consecutive month, the Aggregates Industry Outlook results have dropped. After a more significant decrease in June, they dipped slightly in July to an overall score of 136.11. As the summer production peaks, monthly volumes look strong compared to both last month and last year.

Expectations for quarterly sales also outpaced last month, but expectations dropped off in terms of six-month and annual sales expectations.

Aggregates Industry Outlook 150 145 140

138.10

136.42

134.94 130.86

130.68

135

143.33

127.22

130

136.65

136.11

125

132.64

120

125.00

115

120.20

110 105 100 Aug. 2018

Sept.

2018

Oct. 2018

Nov. 2018

Dec. 2018

Jan. 2019

Feb. 2019

Mar. 2019

Apr. 2019

May 2019

June 2019

July 2019

Demand for aggregate remains strong, however transporting (by lake vessel, river barges, rail, and truck) the material to customers or jobs remains the biggest challenge to meeting our goals. Capacity to move material remains tight, with no positive outlook for an increase anytime soon.

— Ray Mack, Sales Manager, Carmeuse Lime & Stone

The frac sand industry is slowing due to supply exceeding supply routes in key regions and oil prices. Some producers have cut production and production crews. Other segments — highway asphalt aggregates and cement aggregates — are maintaining production levels, and customers are stating they should remain steady until November/December.

— Jason Hurdis, Senior Market Professional, Caterpillar

According to the U.S. DOT Federal Highway Administration, America’s driving will only increase. It projects mileage for all vehicles will increase an average of 0.61 percent every year through 2043. Infrastructure repair costs for roads and bridges should positively impact aggregate production as a a direct result.

— Jill Shackelford, President, Jill Shackelford Consulting

Editor’s note: To join our panel, email Editor-in-Chief Therese Dunphy at tdunphy@randallreilly.com.

QUARTERLY CRUSHED STONE & SAND AND GRAVEL REPORT Region/Division Northeast: Midwest:

South:

West:

New England Middle Atlantic East North Central West North Central South Atlantic East South Central West South Central Mountain

Quantity Crushed Stone 1st qtr. 2019

Percent change

Quantity sand and gravel 1st qtr. 2019

Percent change

2,570

-2.1

1,810

-17.1

20,200

15.1

6,990

9.1

28,100

1

11,600

5

18,200

-0.3

6,110

-2

78,300

20.2

16,000

12.3

30,300

22

4,960

13.2

60,000

9.2

32,600

8.6

14,400

5.6

31,100

-2.8

Pacific

15,600

-15.5

29,000

-11

TOTAL

281,000

12.6

168,000Source: U.S. Geological 2.9 Survey

* thousand metric tons

* thousand metric tons Source: U.S. Geological Survey

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ROLLOUTS

Your complete guide to new and updated equipment and supplies in the aggregates industry.

by Therese Dunphy | Editor-in-Chief | tdunphy@randallreilly.com

Dozer boosts productivity John Deere rolls out the 850L Dozer, which includes a larger displacement engine, increased operating weight, a new operator station, and improvements to maximize reliability and durability. An EPA Tier 4 Final John Deere PSS 9.0L diesel engine increases horsepower by 10 percent. The eco mode feature can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 percent without sacrificing performance. Other features, such as auto-idle and idle shutdown, also minimize fuel costs. The dozer features a dual-path hydrostatic transmission and has 13-percent larger pumps than the K-Series. It is available with what Deere describes as the widest Power Angle Tilt (PAT) blade in its class — a 172-inch blade. The cab has 15 percent more space than the K Series, while noise was reduced by 27 percent. All new ergonomic joysticks control transmission and hydraulic functions. A new HVAC system incorporates a brushless motor for improved airflow. Options include new heated and ventilated seats, a rear camera, and automatic temperature control.

Deere & Company | www.johndeere.com

Emissions-free stacker Volvo Construction Equipment expands its productivity services with the launch of Haul Assist, a system that shows how much material an articulated hauler has moved. Standard on Volvo’s A35G through A60H haulers and optional on the A25G and A30G models, Haul Assist is fully integrated with Volvo’s On-Board Weighing system, which measures payload and displays information through the in-cab Volvo Co-Pilot touch screen. Project mode allows the operator to set up projects, add dump zones and material types, and provide targets. Trip Meter mode provides the operator with a payload counter, a cycle counter, and other payload information. A productivity report gives the operator an overview of the machine productivity status, including tons per hour, tons per gallon, carry-back, and payload utilization. Haul Assist data also can be sent to the office via a productivity report.

Volvo Construction Equipment | www.volvoce.com

Excavator increases horsepower Komatsu America Corp. introduces the new PC1250SP-11 and PC1250LC-11 Tier 4 Final hydraulic excavators. The new models have SAA6D170E-7 engines with two Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filters that do not require Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) or a Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) system. The engine has 13 percent more horsepower than the previous models, while a new Power+ work mode with enhanced engine/hydraulic pump control efficiency helps increase productivity up to 8 percent without negatively impacting fuel consumption compared to the machines’ predecessors.

An upgraded operator cab is 3.5 inches wider than the current Dash 11 excavator cabs, and sound levels are 2 db(A) lower than the previous models. A high-resolution, 7-inch LCD color monitor incorporates a new default split-display mode showing KomVision camera display and key gauges.

Komatsu America Corp. | www.komatsuamerica.com AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

7

ROLLOUTS Cone crusher line rebranded Telsmith recently rebranded its T-Series Cone Crushers product line as Titan Series Cone Crushers. With sizes ranging from 300 to 900 horsepower, the line features hybrid thrust bearing technology, hydraulic relief and cleaning, and a hydraulic anti-spin system. Telsmith’s patented hybrid bearing technology is said to provide the ability to crush at a lower horsepower from improved lift that helps carry the crushing forces when compared to roller bearing machines. Production capacities range from 130 to 2,350 short tons per hour. All Titan models are available as stationary units and the Titan T300 and Titan T400 are also available as portable plants.

Telsmith | www.telsmith.com

New tire series for construction trucks Cooper Tire announces the availability of a new mixed-service, wide-base, all-position tire as part of its Cooper Severe Series designed for mixer and dump trucks. The tire is available in 385/65R22.5 and 425/65R22.5 sizes, in load range L. The series features a five-rib design with 23/32nds of tread and a unique zigzag rib in the center. It is designed to provide traction and cornering in slippery conditions. Special cut-, chip-, and chunk-resistant compounds, as well as Cooper’s Scrub Guard technology, are said to help the tire withstand scrubbing, curbs, and other obstacles.

Cooper Tire | www.coopertire.com

Side dump bucket allows flexible loading Rockland Manufacturing Co. rolls out a new Side Dump Bucket to give operators flexibility to load and unload safely when working in tight spaces. A dual-cushioned dump cylinder allows for a quiet, controlled lateral dump. The manufacturer says excess loader travel can be reduced by pulling beside a haul truck to dump sideways. A hydraulic lockout cylinder prevents unwanted bucket movement when the dump cylinder is not engaged, making it suitable for rough terrain.

Rockland Manufacturing Co. | www.rocklandmfg.com

Controller for air compressors Atlas Copco Power Technique North America launches the Smart Air XC4004 controller on all of its large air compressors and boosters with flows up to 4,500 cfm and pressures up to 5,000 psi. A 7-inch controller display allows a simultaneous view of several parameters, including pressure and flow. This eliminates the need to toggle to check the flow at a certain pressure. Users can monitor no less than 15 key parameters. Quick access to historical trends helps users to perform operational analysis and assists with scheduling of preventive maintenance. Additionally, top structured alarm settings allow for operation monitoring.

Atlas Copco | www.atlascopco.us

8

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

High-pressure booster range Atlas Copco Power Technique North America launches a high-pressure booster range that enables the operator to increase the pressure of a primary compressor for better productivity. With solutions up to 5,000 psi, the booster range is comprised of five standard Tier 4 Final models and designed to work across several industries, including drilling. The new XC4004 controller panel allows for at-a-glance monitoring of all vital parameters. The panel also features an audible, visual alarm and a remote-mirror capability. A pumper block, available in four- and sixcylinder configurations, connects to the engine with a flexible coupling, allowing the pumper block to easily detach for service.

Atlas Copco | www.atlascopco.com

Turnkey crushing plants Haver & Boecker Niagara offers primary crushing plants in various configurations for pre-crushing, secondary, and tertiary crushing.

From design to installation, the manufacturer works with crusher and peripheral component manufacturers to provide turnkey plants built to individual specifications. Two types of systems are available. Basic is a pre-crushing plant that uses a Haver & Boecker Niagara N-Class eccentric screening machine to relieve the primary. It includes a feeder, vibrating screen, crusher, and several conveyors, with an option for additional screen decks. The master system provides increased flexibility for primary crushing states, particularly with non-homogeneous natural deposits. Both plants are said to feature steel construction and robust design.

Haver & Boecker Niagara | www.haverniagara.com

Track loader can handle heavy attachments ASV Holdings Inc. announces its new mid-frame, vertical lift T-70 High Output Posi-Track Loader. Featuring high torque and an efficient hydraulic system, the unit is said to be able to handle the most heavy and demanding attachments. The track loader features 207 foot-pounds of torque and a turbocharged 74.3-horsepower Deutz 2.2-liter diesel engine. The engine meets Tier 4 Final standards using a DOC-only exhaust aftertreatment without a DPF or SCR. The VT-70 High Output includes an operating capacity of 2,328 pounds and a tipping load of 6,650 pounds. It is 65.6 inches wide and has a 126.5-inch lift height.

The machine features speeds of up to 11 mph.

ASV Holdings Inc. | www.asvi.com

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

9

SPECIAL REPORT

by Therese Dunphy, Editor-in-Chief

Dozer Dave’s

Hiring Advice Dave Turin shares his guidance on attracting millennials to the construction materials industry.

10

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

I

magine having a choice between two potential hires. The first is an experienced veteran with 30 years of mining experience. The second is a millennial who greets you with pants hanging around his backside and informs you he will teach you about mining. Which do you hire?

Dave Turin, known as Dozer Dave from Discovery’s Gold Rush show, has an answer that might surprise you. He picked the millennial. “I took it as a challenge: to make this kid a good worker and a good operator,” Turin says. “I don’t want the best offer. I don’t want the guy with 30 years of experience. I want a guy who has a good heart, is good people, and can be trained the way I want. I watched this young man grow up. He became an excellent operator and an excellent young man.”

During AGG1, Turin outlined his approach to hiring, which served him well as he toured the country developing his newest television show, the Discovery Channel’s Dave Turin’s Lost Mine.

Hiring challenges begin with perception issues — both on the part of aggregates managers toward millennials and millennials toward the aggregates industry. “It’s our responsibility to learn how to respond to them and get them to be part of our organization,” Turin advises.

Turin says the statistics show why it is so important to reach out to this generation. “Millennials, which are loosely defined as those born after 1981 through 1996, are now the largest percentage of our workforce,” he says. “One out of every three working Americans are millennials.” Between the ages of 18 and 30, Turin adds that the average millennial will hold nearly eight jobs and changes jobs about every 18 months.

“We’ve got to figure it out,” he says. “It starts at our level. It’s our responsibility.” He offers three suggestions on how to approach millennials.

Make it personal Rather than indulge in the disdain one generation often has for the next, focus on millennials as people and learn what appeals to them. “Every generation has been looked upon like they’re not worth a darn.

I think that my grandpa would have said my dad wasn’t going to amount to anything. My dad probably said I wasn’t going to amount to anything. I question whether my kids are going to amount to anything,” Turin says. “They (millennials) are good people.”

Talk with young people about the industry. Bring them to the quarry for a school tour because those

Dozer Dave Turin says that it is the industry leadership’s responsibility to reach out to millennials and attract them to the workforce.

young students might be your future equipment operators. Share personal stories of why the aggregate industry is a good place to work.

Take a cue from college athletics programs, which spend considerable resources wining and dining future athletic prospects and their parents.

Customize the recruitment model by visiting schools and attending job fairs. Talk with students and their parents about opportunities within your company.

“Why aren’t we doing that with good young people who are good candidates to go into the trade?” Turin asks. “Why aren’t we mentoring them?

Why aren’t we calling and asking how their grades are and then giving them a scholarship to a trade school?” High schools are directing so many kids to a four-year degree that reaching these kids early and showing them a viable, well-paying alternative, is particularly important.

Make it about people Focus on how great the industry is and explain that it’s comprised of good, hard-working people who work on teams that become like families. Show young people a viable alternative to a four-year degree so they understand the construction materials industry offers a good paying, satisfying option for those who may not be well suited to a four-year degree and office job.

For example, Turin says his nephew struggled through high school but was a hard worker and loved to operate equipment. Once he got out of high school, he went straight into the family business as a partner. Turin estimates that he’s making between AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

11

SPECIAL REPORT

An important step when recruiting millennials is to make it personal.

Take a page from a college recruiter’s playbook and identify potential workers while they are still in high school, talk to them and their parents about opportunities in the industry, and offer scholarships for trade schools or training programs.

$200,000 and $300,000 per year and has a nice home, car, and family.

Hardworking young people who would rather be outdoors than in an office could be the face of tomorrow’s workforce.

“Those are our people,” Turin says. “I am passionate about getting people into the trades. I don’t believe we are all designed to go to a four-year college.”

Make it meaningful Turin says that millennials want to change the world and crave the opportunity to feel that their work is meaningful. “Those kids are idealistic,” he says. “They want to impact the world.”

The concept of making work meaningful may seem vague or even plain silly to generations who were raised in a different generation but there are trends that provide some insights as to what this means. For example, many millennials want a healthy work-life balance. “As managers and CEOs, we have to take that into consideration,” Turin explains.

Another way to help younger works feel like they are making an impact on their local communities is to schedule days donated to working on a community cause. This is also great for team-building and community relations. “My dad taught us an early age that if you take something away, say you’re making your living extracting gold or rock, you given something back,” Turin says.

Developing the right mix of tools to attract millennials may be a challenge but can also be quite rewarding. Turin discovered just how gratifying it could be after taking a chance on the skater millennial he hired. After working with him for six to seven years, Turin saw the boy’s father, who tearfully told him that mining had made a man out of his son. “It was one of my greatest joys to pour my knowledge into that kid and teach him,” Turin says. AM

12

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

Discovering Dave Turin’s Lost Mine Nearly three years ago, Dave Turin left Gold Rush, but the lifelong miner didn’t leave the industry behind. After departing the reality show, a group of investors contacted Turin asking him to prospect for them at various properties across the United States.

As he was doing so, Turin also unearthed rich tales of mining throughout the nation’s history. “Our history of mining is just amazing. I love the fact that America would not be where it is without the history of mining,” he says.

“There are stories of Abraham Lincoln sending some of his troops to guard miners who were digging up gold so he could pay for shoes for the Northern Army.”

The stories he learned along the way prompted him to create his own YouTube channel as a way of sharing the tales. As it gained momentum, representatives for the Discovery Channel reached out and suggested a Gold Rush spinoff program. Through a series of negotiations, they developed a new show, Dave Turin’s Lost Mine, which features Turin traveling across the nation exploring sites that early miners abandoned when they had tapped the reserves the technology of their time would allow.

“As I traveled, I met really interesting people and saw mines that were abandoned and shutdown. There were these good people, good towns, and good communities that needed these mines,” he says. The question was whether those mines were financially viable.

“Is it possible, in America, to rejuvenate these lost mines and make money at it?” Turin asks.

Tune in to Discovery Channel’s 11-episode first season to find out. The season is available for viewing now at www.discovery.com.

“CONEXPO-CON/AGG HAS PROVIDED US THE RESOURCES NEEDED TO CREATE GREATER EFFICIENCIES AND SYNERGIES.” CHRIS LANE, RONALD LANE INC.

NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST CONSTRUCTION TRADE SHOW

CONEXPOCONAGG.COM MARCH 10-14, 2020

| LAS VEGAS, USA

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OPERATIONS ILLUSTRATED

By Therese Dunphy, Editor-in-Chief

Avoid Highwall Hazards Benches protect lower levels from falling rock.

Angled drilling can provide greater stability of the highwall.

Watch for weathering due to water.

OUR EXPERTS

Watch for debris on haul roads.

Willard Pierce is director – blasting excellence for Dyno Nobel. He has 37 years of experience in the mining industry and oversaw the realignment of the competency-based Operator Training System to the safety standards of Dyno Nobel. He has a bachelor’s degree in reclamation from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville.

Jason Nichols is the senior product marketing manager for Kespry.

He previously worked for TopCon and as a geologist in California mines and aggregate operations. Nichols has a bachelor’s degree in geology from San Jose State and a master’s degree in GIS from the University of Southern California. He is a professional geologist in the state of California.

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

15

Keep keen eyes on your highwall

W

hen evaluating highwall hazards, consider three factors: the geologic structure itself, how long features within the structure have existed, and the impact of water on the structure. Daily inspections are the operator’s tool to guard against rock falls and highwall failures.

“There are large mines that set up survey points with very sophisticated GPS. It’s all done electronically,” says Willard Pierce, director – blasting excellence, for Dyno Nobel. “In a smaller mine, you go around and look for examples of things that are starting to move where you’re actively mining.”

Several factors can be taken to reduce the risks associated with ground control failure.

1 Identify a stable crest. When performing drilling and blasting activities at the top of the site, watch for back break, cavities, and overhang or sloping conditions. Establish a safety line based on distance from any of those conditions, rather than simply the edge itself. Anyone working beyond that safety line must use fall protection.

2 Create wider benches. This allows producers to guard against rock fall into the bottom of the pit.

Bench width is part art, part science, but must factor the site’s geology, as well as the height of each lift.

The goal is to catch any material that sloughs off the exposed highwall. Jason Nichols, senior product marketing manager for Kespry, says that some operators

1

are now using drones to document highwall conditions. “Using drones, they can identify areas that are unstable,” he notes.

3 Use pre-splitting and scaling to minimize loose material. Pre-splitting can be used for preparation of production shots, as well as the final wall. Alternatively, scale loose material from a safe distance using mobile equipment with spotters or a high-powered water cannon.

4 Understand the impact of water. Whether creating additional weight on a face, weathering organic material from a deposit, or lubricating material so that it can slide more easily, water plays a significant role in creating highwall hazards.

“From a mining standpoint, water control is critical to a mine,” Pierce says. “Hopefully, you can control its movement and use ditches to direct the water to a sump area.”

In addition to running water, operators should consider the effect of freeze/thaw cycles. Rock falls are the most common during spring and fall weather when precipitation levels are higher and freeze/thaw cycles are more common. Freeze/thaw can also occur throughout a single day as the sun rises and sets over the pit.

The bottom line is that highwall safety requires vigilance to conditions and an abundance of caution. Pierce sums it up well: “You have to empower your employees to say they won’t work in that area until it’s resolved.”

Inspect daily

Before miners enter the work area, inspect the highwall looking for signs of movement such as cracking and jointing. Changes in strata, such as mud seams or geologic layers, should be noted. Consider highwall conditions not only at that point in time, but also over time. Changes in conditions can indicate movement.

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AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

2

Draw the line

Evaluate the edge of the highwall for cracks, laminations, and unconsolidated material.

Set up a safety line an appropriate distance from the stable crest rather than the edge itself. Paint or tape can be used to mark this distance. If it is necessary for anyone to work on the other side of the safety line, they must use fall protection. Equipment can also be tied off. For example, a drill can be tied off with a winch or anchor.

3

Leverage technology

In areas where highwalls are difficult to inspect, consider the use of drone technology.

When flying drones, keep flights as low as safely possible. Image resolution is better from closer flights, so try to keep the drone no more than 30 feet above the highwall.

Consider flights before and after blasts to inspect the changes to the face.

4

Ask for expert guidance

If there are indications of slope instability such as cracks, a qualified engineer should evaluate conditions. Provide a warning of instability so workers can take steps to minimize the impact of slope displacement.

If sloughing occurs, barricade the area against entry until steps can be taken to ensure safety.

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

17

Voices of Experience Willard Pierce

A

qualified, competent person — the supervisor of each crew working near a highwall — examines the highwall for potential hazards before miners enter the work area. Spotting these hazards takes training, both in terms of general ground control and site-specific geological conditions, which means each supervisor’s training should be specific to the site’s geology.

“There is no one set of rules,” says Willard Pierce, director – blasting excellence, for Dyno Nobel. “Every mine you walk into has its own set of variables, so you can’t say that because it worked at one site, it’s going to work next door. It may not.”

The supervisor should also have substantial training at the site prior to performing solo inspections. “We easily recognize an inexperienced miner or somebody with only one or two years of experience,” Pierce adds. A greater challenge is to recognize that tenure doesn’t equate to expertise in recognizing highwall hazards. Engaged discussions and observations of those conditions, over a sustained period of time, develop the necessary skill.

“You go around the site and look for examples of things that are starting to move where you’re actively mining. Look for cracks. Look at the laminations. Look for jointing. Look for unconsolidated material,” Pierce explains. “A lot of this is done through on-the-job training. It’s about having a very diligent conversation and ensuring the person understands the geology of the site and the potential hazards that may exist at that site. This conversation is supposed to happen daily, so the more conversations on this topic there are, the better informed a miner is of the potential hazards.”

When conducting the highwall exam, it’s important to look at the site and consider how it looks not just on that day, but how it may be changing over time. “All of us can be complacent and walk past something without seeing it because it’s there every day,” Pierce says. “You have to make a conscious effort to look at it on this day and then the next to see what is different. This is something that anybody can do. There is no cost.” Rock scattered near a bench that has been prepared for drilling or along a haul road may indicate weakness in the highwall.

While a checklist is commonly used for daily inspections, potential changes also can be photographed or video recorded. And, if necessary, a highwall inspection might need to be performed more frequently than required by regulatory standards, up to several times per shift. “It’s a serious decision,” Pierce says of determining if the highwall is active.

When necessary, he suggests seeking additional guidance from a mining engineer or rock mechanic to ensure the right decision is made.

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AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

Jason Nichols

“A

lot of what we’re seeing now is the ability to use our new features more and more, particularly on highwall and blasting areas,” says Jason Nichols, senior product marketing manager for Kespry. “Operators are using the drone to document a lot of the changes in the existing conditions at certain points in time.”

Increased accuracy, cloud-based tools, and third-party software allow operators to view highwalls through model analysis. “Because of that accuracy, operators are now looking at highwalls in a different light,” Nichols adds, noting that some operators are using drones specifically to monitor highwalls without setting foot near them. The drone allows them to identify areas that are unstable from a safe distance.

For example, a comparison tool allows operators to view changes over time. This can help highlight signs of instability, such as sloughing or cracks. “They identify some of the areas that are potentially unstable using the high-resolution imagery and some of the cloud features,” Nichols explains, noting that the resolution allows the operator to zoom in to more closely inspect any cracks that may have formed.

“It gives them the ability to make informed decisions on the remaining reserves and be able to do that analysis without having to go near the highwall,” he says.

“I think what’s happening is that the tools in the Kespry cloud are giving more reasons to do those highwall inspections prior to any work that’s going to be done or before regularly scheduled maintenance or monitoring of those highwalls. It creates an initial feeling of safety.” This can be particularly helpful with highwalls that are difficult to access for a visual inspection.

A cross section tool allows the operator to string a line across a highwall from one flight to the next.

This provides a clear view of the material removed and, once again, allows the operator to spot sloughing and material movement. “You can compare those by aligning that elevation profile, one stacked on another,” he says.

For the best results, Nichols recommends flying the drone as low to the highwall as safely possible.

Distances of 30 feet above the top of the highest point allow the drone to capture higher resolution images.

“We also recommend a flight prior to and just after a blast,” he says. “This will ensure the ability to not only capture volume changes, but also improve safety by spotting any visible cracks that may not be seen from the ground surface.”

LET’S BUILD A BETTER FUTURE. ADVOCATE, EDUCATE & NETWORK Registration opens soon for NSSGA’s 2019 Legislative & Policy Forum. When the aggregates industry comes together to make our voices heard on Capitol Hill, our message on transportation and infrastructure can’t be ignored. Join us in Washington, D.C. this November to participate in activities that focus on creating the right policy environment for our industry to succeed.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to get face-to-face with members of Congress.

NSSGA will handle the details—we will make your appointments with your representatives, and breakout sessions will prepare you with the latest updates on the industry’s important issues and coach you on how best to educate your lawmakers on why aggregates matter to America’s success.

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NOVEMBER 18 – 20, 2019 ROCKS

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SPECIAL REPORT

Eliminate a

Housekeeping

Hazard

A well-designed transfer point contains material for cleaner, safer, and more productive conveying.

A

s tons of material per hour are quickly dropped with great force through receiving chutes onto a receiving conveyor, fugitive cargo often piles up around the frame and dust migrates throughout the area, collecting on idlers, pulleys, and floors and affecting air quality. Workers have to continuously clean up the material before

20

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

it encapsulates the belt, potentially exposing them to a hazardous work area around a moving conveyor, where even incidental contact can result in serious injury in a split second. Considering that most conveyor injuries occur through routine maintenance or clean up, controlling fugitive material is becoming one of the primary elements in a well-organized

effort to reduce hazards and prevent injuries.

“Conveyor operators need only take a broad look at the expense that fugitive material has on a system to realize the full cost that accompanies inefficient transfer point designs,” says Jerad Heitzler, product specialist at Martin Engineering. “Problems such as improper

Cleaning up spillage exposes workers to a potential hazard area from the moving conveyor.

A welldesigned transfer point controls the maximum load at the highest achievable volume.

belt support, badly sealed chutes, damaged idlers, and uneven cargo distribution can all result in spillage and belt mistracking. They also contribute to increased costs for lost material, premature equipment failure, maintenance and cleanup, as well as the potential for injury and compliance issues. These factors raise the cost of operation and reduce profit margins.”

In a properly-engineered transfer point, each component, from the chute design to the cradles and dust seals, is employed to maximize its specific function and contain dust and fines, while at the same time offering workers easy access for maintenance.

Transfer points Containment is the key to avoiding spillage and dust, and there are a

number of components designed for this purpose. Although shaped transfer chutes and rock boxes direct the material flow to mitigate the concussion of material on the belt, most high-volume operations need one or more impact cradles to absorb the force of the cargo stream. Heavy-duty impact cradles can be equipped with rubber or urethane impact bars with a top layer of slick UHMW plastic to minimize belt friction.

Able to withstand impact forces as high as 17,000 lbf and drop heights of up to 50 feet, support beams in the center of the cradle are set slightly below the receiving belt’s line of travel. In this way, the belt avoids sustained friction when running empty and yet can absorb hard impacts during loading, while still retaining a tight belt seal.

Within the settling zone — located after the impact cradle in the conveyor chute box — slider cradles can then create a troughed belt to center the cargo and reduce disruption quickly, aiding in dust settlement. Slider cradles, located down the length of the skirted area, have several functions. One is to create a trough angle that adequately centers the load. The trough angle also plays an

important part in retaining a tight seal between the belt and the skirt. Lastly, using track mount idlers in between each cradle, a smooth belt path is created through the settling area, one that can be easily maintained. A smooth belt path should have no gaps, minimizing disruption and promoting containment, allowing dust and fines to settle into the material stream prior to leaving the containment area.

Airflow With a constant stream of material crashing on the impact point of the receiving belt, the transfer point can be extremely turbulent, and this turbulence must be contained. By slowing the airflow in the skirted area, suspended dust is allowed to settle onto the cargo path. To contain the mixture of air and disrupted material, a stable, correctly-supported belt is needed for the sealing components to function properly. Without a stable beltline, the belt will sag between idlers, and sealing components will not prevent air and fine material from escaping out of the resulting gaps, causing spillage and dust emissions.

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

21

SPECIAL REPORT wear liner sealing system at the edge of the belt,” Heitzler explains. “Modern designs feature external skirting, which establish the tight belt seal needed to eliminate fugitive dust and fines.”

The external design requires minimal tools and no confined space entry to inspect, adjust, or replace wear liners or skirts, and, in most cases, can be performed by a single worker. The low profile of the skirting assembly needs only a few inches of clearance, allowing installation and maintenance in space-restricted areas. The design of these components drastically reduces scheduled downtime and the potential workplace hazards associated with replacement and adjustment.

An effective transfer point requires the belt’s line of travel to be stabilized and supported.

Chute sealing By closing gaps and keeping a tight seal on the belt, apron seals can also be attached to the chute walls to prevent

Dust filtration fugitive dust and fines from escaping. “A crucial requirement in any transfer point designed for reduced spillage and high efficiency is an effective skirting and

In operations with limited space for a settling zone or especially dusty materials, dust bags and curtains may be essential components. Providing passive relief via positive air pressure created at belt

www.AggMan.com Aggregates Manager magazine’s website, www.AggMan.com, keeps the industry up to date - whether operators are in the office or in the field. Get the latest news and industry insights from our award-winning editorial team.

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AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

2/13/19 8:31 AM

An integrated air cleaner is a small, independently operating unit placed at the dust generation point.

conveyor loading zones, dust bags prevent the escape of airborne particulates by venting the air and collecting dust at the same time. Installed at the exit of the loading zone and mounted in the skirtboard cover, dust curtains can help create a plenum for dust suppression and dust collection. For additional dust control, an integrated air cleaner system can be installed at the point of emission, containing a suction blower, filtering elements, and a filter cleaning system.

Conclusion Managers concerned with the overall safety and cost of operation need to review potential hazards, the impact of rising labor costs for cleanup and maintenance, combined with the expense of potential fines or forced downtime, to determine specifically how they can affect the bottom line. Using the technologies described here, even poorly-performing conveyors often don’t need to be replaced or rebuilt, but merely modified

and reconfigured by knowledgeable and experienced technicians installing modern equipment. “These improvements will help operations improve efficiency, reduce risk

and contribute to regulatory compliance,�

Heitzler adds. AM Article courtesy of Martin Engineering.

Improve visibility, boost efficiency and control operations costs with Trimble Operations Reporting | LOADRITE Payload Management Systems | Loadout Management Systems | Load & Haul Monitoring | Fleet Management | Dredge Positioning | Machine Control | Drill Positioning

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AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

23

EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT

by Bryan Snyder

Maintain Your Yo ur Scale with

Digital Technology Leveraging data will be the future game-changer in efficiency as the scale industry continues to evolve.

T

he aggregate industry has come a long way, but it’s still not where it needs to be when it comes to digital technology and truck scales. As a result, time is wasted in identifying problems when something goes wrong within the scale. Living in a digital era, data is readily available to help decrease downtime and increase efficiency. When the right

24

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

technology is implemented, digitization can transform the way business is done.

Streamlining processes to improve operations Depending on the application, the necessity for digital integration wasn’t a priority for truck scale owners until recently. With new developments, producers can find,

diagnose, and solve any problem found on the scale. There is no need to hook a voltage meter up to many parts of the scale when technology can pinpoint the problem and suggest ways to resolve it. This saves time because anyone with the ability to read the indicator screen can use the technology to easily diagnose problems.

Because it can take hours to find a

notifications to the service provider, so it can quickly see which part is generating an error rather than checking each load cell one-by-one. Because the service provider can scrutinize data points prior to arriving at the scale, it can show up with the right parts and equipment to get the scale up and weighing on the first trip.

In addition, producers can now be proactive rather than reactive because of the simplicity with problem identification, a new development management platform, and data redundancy through the cloud.

Finding the right technology

Leveraging data from digital scales can help producers improve the efficiency of their scale-and-ticketing operation.

problem on a scale in the traditional manner, the move to digital makes sense for producers experiencing problems with their scales. The intent for digital integration is to automate processes with the data available and to develop a system where every step happens in the same digital space. Producers will be able to find a problem in a matter of

minutes versus hours, decreasing the amount of downtime. If it’s something simple, the producer can address the issue at the site.

Even though a producer can call a service provider when there is an issue, identifying the problem in advance can streamline maintenance and repairs. For example, digital technology can send

One way to improve truck scale management advice is to integrate up-to-date technological innovations. User-friendly technology helps producers accommodate all types of employees using the equipment and provide an infrastructure that will improve collaboration with service providers.

It’s important to make sure the technology isn’t using analog in any way. Some scale solutions provide digital options but are actually integrating and converting analog technology. A complete digital solution is essential for getting full insight into the scale and accessing detailed information when service is needed.

There are also new management platforms for service providers when they use a solution that’s fully digital.

By leveraging a cloud-based monitoring platform, scale data can be accessed from anywhere. This also protects the operation if something were to go down; data would be safely stored in the cloud.

With more than 50 points of data, service providers can thoroughly analyze the problem and transform information into actionable recommendations.

Integrating technology that is fully digital improves workflow and profitability. because it decreases downtime by keeping the scale up and running.

Preventive maintenance and inventory control If a scale is not weighing correctly, it could impact both invoices and inventory.

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

25

EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT management. Stockpiles are a valuable asset, so accurately tracking what is going out the gate is essential. With these new developments in digital technology, producers can improve the accuracy of their insights into inventory.

Newer digital scales can measure up to 100,000 pounds in 10-pound increments rather than the traditional 20-pound increments, thereby being twice as precise.

Collaborating with the service provider

Digital technology can send notifications to the service provider, so it can quickly see which part is generating an error rather than checking each load cell one-by-one.

The same is true if a scale is full of sand, dirt, or ice and not properly cleaned out.

It’s important to understand how to take care of a scale to prevent problems from occurring. Available digital technology helps producers to protect scales from extreme environmental factors, such as lightning and heavy rains.

Most scales include millivolt to volt signal, but with recent advances, scales may also include precautionary measures because of their data accuracy, helping them to be resistant to lightning and surges.

Not only does accuracy help with prevention, but it also helps with inventory

The Historical Construction Equipment Association’s 34th Annual

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND OLD EQUIPMENT EXPOSITION The Largest Earthmoving Show in North America!

Over 200 Vintage Construction Machines and Trucks!

Sept. 13–15, 2019

National Construction Equipment Museum 16623 Liberty Hi Road • Bowling Green, Ohio Hosted by the Museum Volunteers

EVENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS Live demonstrations and daily parade of dirt-moving, ground-breaking, earth-shaking antique construction equipment. The convention will also feature historical displays, memorabilia vendors, the world’s largest sandbox for kids, and the Saturday night HCEA member’s banquet on the Museum grounds.

Visit www.hcea.net • HCEA 419-352-5616 • Fax: 419-352-6086 email: tberry@hcea.net

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

ADMISSION: $10.00 daily, or $20.00 weekend pass.

Under age 16, vendors and exhibitors free.

VENDORS: $40.00 for first 8-foot table, additional tables $35.00 each. Limited tables available for $10 each to HCEA members for historical displays only.

Call the HCEA office at 419-352-5616.

CAMPING:

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

26

Friday, Sept. 13: 9:00 AM to dark Saturday, Sept. 14: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday, Sept. 15: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Saturday, Sept. 14. Social hour at 6:00 PM, dinner at 7:00 PM. Order tickets through the HCEA office at 419-352-5616. Adults, $25, 12 and under, $15.

Equipment built or powered by International Harvester will be featured. Stationary and operational equipment in any condition is welcome.

Also hosting the Power of Yesteryear’s annual agricultural tractor, farming and threshing show. Vintage trucks displayed by the Black Swamp Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society.

SHOW HOURS:

HCEA BANQUET:

FEATURING INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER!

ALSO FEATURING…

New technology is providing full insight into the scale’s performance. By implementing a truly digital solution, diagnosing and notifying scale service providers of issues is quick and easy because it’s all automated.

Without real-time data and a collaborative relationship, it can sometimes hinder successful time management.

That’s why strong partnerships with the service providers can help to ensure producers are keeping up with standards and any new developments with the technology. Service providers are proactive

Limited primitive camping available. $20.00 fee per site for show. First come, first served.

GOLF CARTS: Golf carts will be available. Reserve them from Welch’s Golf Carts Inc., 888-310-9333 or welchsgolfcarts.com, and mention HCEA and the show dates. $5 one-time fee payable at gate for all personal transport vehicles, except for mobility scooters for the handicapped.

problem solvers, empowered by data and notifications to correct any issues before the scale goes down.

Keeping up with ever-evolving data Digital technology includes data that is ever evolving, and it can help producers to run weighing solutions more efficiently.

Profitability comes from the ability to adapt to this new approach while leveraging insight into the overall process.

Producers will be able to maintain their truck scales efficiently while keeping on top of operations.

Technology is moving so quickly that, oftentimes, the leading-edge product is antiquated as soon as it’s implemented.

This is why it’s important to work closely with a service provider.

Think back a decade ago. What was ahead in tech innovation? Staying with — and ideally ahead of — the technology curve is imperative, as it is expected from construction material customers.

Data and analytics are powerful tools that have the potential to enhance

Because a service provider can review data points prior to arriving at the scale, it can arrive with the right parts and equipment to get the scale up and weighing on the first trip.

efficiency, improve service, and help with profitability. Leveraging data will be the future game-changer in efficiency as the scale industry continues to evolve.

Good scale data helps producers to sift through the noise and quickly identify issues and opportunities for improvement.

When leveraging analytics, producers are

empowered with the ability to operate at ultimate efficiency. AM

Bryan Snyder is systems manager for B-TEK Scales.

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates.

BEHIND EVERYTHING GREAT IN AMERICA, THERE’S A TRUCK.

At Progressive, we’re proud to offer truckers the kind of coverage and service that helps them drive progress.

Call your local agent or visit ProgressiveCommercial.com

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

27

by Laura Beverage

ROCKLAW The Ongoing Saga of Workplace Exams MSHA’s Workplace Examination Rule: A new chapter to an old story.

A

fter years of back and forth, stakeholder meetings, and anxiety over the requirements of 30 C.F.R. §§ 56/57.18002, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals struck down the Mine Safety and Health Administration’s (MSHA) currently enforced 2018 Amendments to the Workplace Examination Rule on June 11, 2019, in a challenge brought by the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union, the AFL-CIO-CLC, and the United Mine Workers of America International Union, in slip opinion No. 18-1116. How did we get here?

The beginning

Laura Beverage is counsel in Jackson Kelly PLLC’s Denver, Colo., office where she practices in the Construction, Manufacturing, Energy, and Mining industry groups, focusing primarily on workplace safety and health.

She may be reached at 303390-0004 or lbeverage@ jacksonkelly.com.

28

Once upon a time, there was a workplace examination rule at §§ 56/57.18002, which required that a “competent person” examine each working place at least once each shift for conditions which may adversely affect safety and health. If found, prompt, appropriate corrective action was required. If an imminent danger was found, the condition was to be brought immediately to the attention of the operator, and all persons affected were to be withdrawn, except those required to correct the condition. The fact that the examination had been made was required to be recorded.

Everything seemed clear and simple enough, but MSHA wanted more and set out to get it in 2016 with what culminated with the 2016 Proposed Workplace Rule. https://www.govinfo.gov/

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

content/pkg/FR-2016-06-08/pdf/2016-13218.pdf.

When then-Assistant Secretary for MSHA Joseph A. Main (Main) told stakeholders in 2016 that the Proposed Rule to replace 30 C.F.R. §§ 56/57.18002 was not as stringent as the regulations governing examinations in underground coal mines, metal and non-metal mines balked. Main’s comparison provided cold comfort to surface and underground metal and non-metal mining operators who do not face many of the safety and health hazards that are potentially presented in underground coal mines. The Proposed Rule included many similarities to underground coal requirements that require the conduct of pre-shift examinations by specially certified persons who were basically in charge of the mine when performing those tasks regardless of whether they were hourly employees or salaried.

Among other issues, concerns were raised during the public hearings and comments that MSHA would cite operators for violations it finds and records, even if operators were in the process of abating or already abated those conditions.

Operators also expressed concern over the conduct of the examination before work begins in all working places. The competent person was not required to complete the actual record of the examination until the end of shift. So, how were miners that may be affected by the adverse condition to be made aware prior to potential exposure?

The 2017 Final Rule was published in the Federal Register on Jan. 23, 2017. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/ FR-2017-01-23/pdf/2017-00832.pdf. It was slated to become effective on May 23, 2017.

The 2017 Final Rule required, among other things, that: • a competent person designated by the operator examine each working place at least once each shift, before miners begin work in that place, for conditions that may adversely affect safety or health; • that operators notify miners in the affected areas of any conditions that may adversely affect their safety or health before work begins; • that operators promptly initiate corrective action; • that a record be made of the examination that includes: the name of the person conducting the examination, the date, the location, a description of each condition and conditions discovered, and be supplemented to include the date of the corrective actions taken; and • operators make examination records available to miners’ representatives, in addition to MSHA. The 2017 Final Rule was challenged on March 17, 2017, by the National Mining Association, National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association, Portland Cement Association, American Iron & Steel Institute, Georgia Mining Association, and Georgia Construction Aggregate Association in Case No. 17-11207 pending in the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals.

The middle There were numerous delays and pauses to the effective start date of the 2017 Final Rule initiated by MSHA to allow “policy review” in a new Administration. Finally, on Sept. 12, 2017, MSHA announced proposed changes to the 2017 Final Rule to consider: • when working place examinations must begin; and • whether adverse conditions and related corrective actions must be included in the examination record. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2017-09-12/ pdf/2017-19381.pdf.

The industry associations challenge in the 11th Circuit was stayed while MSHA sorted out the proposed Amendments to the 2017 Final Rule.

With respect to the timing of examinations, MSHA proposed to modify the 2017 Final Rule such that a working place must be examined before work begins or as miners begin work.

MSHA stated that this proposed change “would allow miners to enter a working place at the same time that the competent person conducts the examination.”

With respect to records, MSHA proposed to amend the

recordkeeping requirement so that adverse conditions that are promptly corrected need not be recorded. Similarly, a record of corrective action would only be required for conditions that are not promptly corrected. For purposes of this provision, MSHA interpreted “promptly” to mean “before miners are potentially exposed to adverse conditions.”

This launched another round of comments and public meeting that culminated in the 2018 Final Rule Amendments (https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2018-04-09/ pdf/2018-07084.pdf ) which, among other things, clarified that: • the examination could be conducted as miners were entering the work area, but before they could be exposed to hazards; and • conditions that could adversely affect safety or health that were “corrected promptly” could be left off the workplace examination form.

Thus, the industry challenge in the 11th Circuit was stayed further pending a challenge to the 2018 Final Rule amendments brought by the unions in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals on May 2, 2018. However, MSHA rolled out compliance assistance meetings and began enforcement on June 2, 2018.

Which brings us to now Poof! On June 11, 2019, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in slip opinion No. 18 1116 struck down the 2018 Final Rule Amendments. The June 11, 2019, opinion analyzed the provision of the Mine Act that requires that no rule may “reduce the protection afforded miners by an existing mandatory health or safety standard.” 30 U.S.C. § 811(a). The unions successfully argued that MSHA offered an inadequate explanation as to why allowing the examination to be conducted as miners entered a workplace was safer than conducting an examination before they entered. In addition, the D.C. Circuit agreed with the unions that allowing the examiner to omit recording adverse safety and health conditions which were “corrected promptly” would reduce the level of safety offered by the 2017 Final Rule.

The effect of the appellate court’s decision is to vacate the 2018 Final Rule and re-instate the 2017 Final Rule’s regulatory requirements.

So, now we await a final mandate on the decision in the D.C. Circuit. Meanwhile, back in the 11th Circuit, will the case move forward and take us back to the summer of 2017? What will become of the plans initiated by operators to comply with the 2018 Final Rule Amendments? What will MSHA’s enforcement position be going forward? Will miners and operators continue to piece together the best possible systems for the protection of a safe and healthful work environment? We must be vigilant in this quest, but unfortunately “That’s Not All Folks.”

To be continued… AM AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

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Hammond Air Conditioning

hammondac.com

31

HCEA

hcea.net

26

Hyundai

tomorrowsedgetoday.com

6

John Deere

johndeere.com/elevate

2

Kleemann

wirtgen-group.com/america

Kruse Integration

kruseintegration.com

31

NSSGA

nssga.org

19

Progressive

progressivecommercial.com

27

Rice Lake

ricelake.com

BC

Trimble

aggregates.trimble.com

23

The publisher does not assume any liability for errors or omissions.

30

Web

AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

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Experience: Retired November 2011 following 41 years with the U.S. Geological Survey • USGS Aggregate Resource Geologist 1977-2011 • Past Chair and Distinguished Service Award recipient, Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Industrial Minerals and Aggregates Division • Author of ASBPE award-winning columns - Carved In Stone, Aggregates Manager, 1998-Present

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2019-03-04 2:21 PM

CARVED IN STONE

Bill Langer is a consulting research geologist who spent 41 years with the U.S. Geological Survey before starting his own business. He can be reached at Bill_Langer@hotmail.com

Martian Robots Four rovers and one stationary robot explore the surface — and geology — of Mars.

L

ast month, this column described how robotics is being used in mining, and related this to the First World Robotics Championship, a competition for high school students that simulated a cargo transport station on Mars.

Actually, having robots on Mars is not just limited to the imagination of a bunch of high school students. There have been five successful robots operating on Mars. Four of the robots have been rovers; Sojourner, Opportunity, Spirit, and Curiosity. Their mission has been to explore the Martian surface and atmosphere by “roving” around. The first three rovers all greatly outlived their planned mission life, but are now NASA’s Curiosity Mars rover snapped this selfie. For scale, the non-operational. Curiosity is still working; having actively rover’s wheels are 20 inches in diameter and about 16 inches wide. explored Mars for over seven years.

The fifth robot, Insight, is not a rover. It was designed to sit in place and study the geological secrets of the deep interior of Mars.

The robots were sent to Mars to help meet the science goals of the Mars Exploration Program. One of those goals is to characterize the geology of Mars.

The rovers had a variety of tools to accomplish their missions, with each rover having more and better tools than its predecessors. By the time Curiosity touched down, the tools had become quite sophisticated.

I always carry my trusty hammer when I am doing fieldwork. The twin rovers carried a RAT — a Rock Abrasion Tool that could scrape away the weathered surface and expose fresh, unspoiled rock just like my hammer.

I also bring a hand lens. Some rovers were equipped with a Microscopic Imager (MI) just like my hand lens.

None of Curiosity’s predecessors could get deep into Martian rocks. My favorite tool is Curiosity’s sample collecting system consisting of a percussion drill, a brush, and mechanisms for scooping, sieving, and portioning samples of powdered rock and soil. The samples can be analyzed by a suite of three separate instruments — a mass spectrometer, a gas chromatograph, and a laser spectrometer.

For sheer coolness, it’s tough to beat the ChemCam. This instrument fires a laser at Martian rocks from up to 30 feet away and analyzes the composition of the vaporized bits.

The rovers have a few other tools, but possessing those mentioned above would make any field geologist as happy as a dog with two tails.

InSight is the new guy on the planet. Unlike the rovers, it just sits there. But it uses a super-sensitive seismometer, a heat probe, and other equipment to study the deep interior of Mars.

Thus far, the four rover robots on Mars have collectively made some remarkable discoveries, including the following: More water in Mars’ past. Mars contains gravel, stream bed deposits, sandstone rocks, and rocks with altered coatings, all of which appear to have formed in the presence of water. Earlier this year, rover found the highest amounts of clay in any sample so far, providing additional evidence there was once water in the region.

A suitable home for life. Mars contains carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur, the key ingredients necessary for the formation of life as we know it. Furthermore, evidence found through the analysis of clays and rocks suggest that Mars may have been habitable for millions of years.

Mars experiences quakes. Seismic activity (marsquakes) occur on Mars. Studying those marsquakes may help scientists learn more about the interior of Mars.

Maybe someday one of the First competitors will operate a robot to mine the gravel Curiosity found on Mars. AM

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AGGREGATES MANAGER / August 2019

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