“Optimizing mine management: integrating lean theories and short interval control in surface mining”

Frontline supervisors are pivotal in mining productivity, but face challenges due to the long working hours and rapid decision-making skills required. This paper proposes the application of Short Interval Control (SIC) to streamline information flow and support decision systems in mining, by developing a framework that aims to improve shovel performance during critical hours. Initial results demonstrated improvements in shift change and reduced operational disruption due to lunchtime breaks. Conclusively, although the methodology didn’t translate directly to significant improvements due to data availability, it became evident that SIC can help identify deviations and facilitate quick shifts within operational mining processes.