Abstract
M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
Literature has shown that a number of concerns have been raised with regards to the
definition of small scale mining. It has been argued that the formal definition does not
capture all the intricacies of small scale mining. The definition does not take into
account the level of technology deployed, production output, nature and motivation of
miners etc.
The objectives of the research conducted were to firstly develop a formal and scientific
definition for Small Scale Mining in South Africa and secondly to use and apply
Engineering Management concepts to optimise and improve the productivity of
selected Small Scale Mining and Minerals Processing operations in South Africa.
The methodology used involved conducting a literature review of the types of small
scale mining and mineral processing operations that exist within South Africa. A case
study approach was used and a questionnaire was developed to gather information
from selected legal small scale mining and processing operations in South Africa. A
survey was developed and submitted to experts/specialists in the field of small scale
mining in order to use the Pairwise Comparison Decision Making Tool to develop a
scientific definition of small scale mining.
By comparing the information studied in the literature with the data obtained from
visiting two small scale operations (semi-precious gemstones and diamonds) and
using engineering management concepts it was found that the recommended
improvements that one can make to small scale mining and minerals processing
operations in South Africa can essentially be categorised into four critical areas
namely: Management, Chemical Analysis, Technology and Skills.
These areas are captured in more detail in the Integrated Management Model
proposed for Small Scale Mining and Minerals Processing Operations in South Africa
within this dissertation. All aims and objectives set-out for the research conducted
were achieved. The recommended improvements if implemented by small scale
mining and mineral processing operations in South Africa will result in a safer and
healthier working environment, increased productivity, higher production rates and
improved profitability.