DRA Global recently completed construction of the Klipgat Decline Boxcut for African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) at Bokoni Platinum Mine, Polokwane, South Africa.
The successful completion of this project underscores the exceptional teamwork and expertise of the project team, who maintained a positive and determined approach despite encountering challenging geotechnical conditions that required substantial design adjustments.
This project not only demonstrates DRA Global’s commitment to technical excellence but also its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, with an all-female design team.
Congratulations to the team who worked on this project:
- Tina van Niekerk, Infrastructure Design Engineer, led the infrastructure design, responsible for the boxcut side batters, portal face profiling, and lateral support design aligned with geotechnical requirements and stormwater management.
- Radostina Ina Achilleoudes, Senior Civil Design Engineer, handled the civil designs for the boxcut floor, stormwater drain channels, and sump.
- Nithasha Jeewan, Civil Project Engineer, was responsible for coordinating the design, procuring additional design inputs (rock mechanics for the side slope lateral support), procuring of civil/earthworks contractor for the construction, construction contract management/administration.
Reflecting on the project, the team expressed that working with a diverse team in the Civil engineering department had been an empowering experience.
“The collaboration and mutual support within the team have fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and purpose.
“This project not only highlights the technical expertise and innovative approaches of the team members but also showcases the potential for women to lead and excel in complex engineering design projects.
“It’s inspiring to work for a company that promotes inclusivity and actively works towards a diverse workforce and acknowledge women’s significant contributions to the construction industry.”
