Exploring the effects of automation on workforce job security in mining sector: a case of Kuvimba group of mines

Abstract

The study sought to explore the effects of automation on workforce job security in mining sector: a case of Kuvimba group of mines. The objectives were to determine the extent to which Kuvimba mining company implement automation in mining processes, to establish the impacts of automation of mining processes on workforce job security in mining Industry, to explore the perceptions of the workers, management and other stakeholders on the impacts of automation on workforce job security and to establish strategies that can be implemented to mitigate job losses due to automation of the mining processes. The study adopted pragmatism, philosophy. The study population consisted of employees from three mines namely, Trojan Nickel mine, Freda Rebecca mine and Shamva gold mine. A total sample 61 respondents were used. Survey questionnaire and interview guide were used as research tools. Data was captured coded and analysed using SPSS. Results indicated that the mining companies have implemented digitalisation across all mining processes. Vehicles are tracked, the mines detect mineral using machinery, off lading and loading is also done automatically through the use of conveyor belts and automated trucks. It was observed that Kuvimba mines have operational procedures for using automated machinery. The results showed that automation of the mining processes affected job security. There are risks of losing jobs due to automation of mining processes; automation reduced the number of workers at the mine. It was noted that automated machinery replaced human resources. Presence of a moderate positive linear relationship between automation and workforce Job security was observed. Multiple regression model was statistically significant (p<0.05) in forecasting the impact of automation on workforce job security. The study also observed that automation of mining processes improves health and safety of employees and to some extend does affect workforce job security. However, some participants opined that automation had increased the number professional and technical employees but reduced the large number of unskilled workforces through retrenchment. The interviews also revealed that, the mines preferred fixed time unskilled contract workers whose contracts can be terminated. Automation affected job security of employees despite perceived benefits such as improved productivity, efficiency and health and safety. It was suggested that employees need re-skilling and up skilling and there is also need to channel resources towards training as compared to outsourcing resources for equipment operation. The study also recommends that mining organizations must provide training for workers on automation this can be done through, educational grants or incentives to motivate workers to advance their knowledge in the field of automation. The mining sector should consider alternative means of employment to secure jobs for unskilled labour. Future studies should be carried out in other sectors of the economy; to fully understand the impact of automation on employee job security.