The Mine Rescue Association of Zimbabwe (MRAZ) is currently reconstructing its National Workload Training Centre at Gaths Mine in Mashava to ensure mine rescue brigades are physically fit to carry out rescue missions.
Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe, MRAZ Spokesperson Emmanuel Chigwa said the center will increase brigades’ physical fitness for both the fresh air and proto teams.
He mentioned that the facility offers endurance exercises such as throwing 10 sandbags over a wall, carrying 10 steel pipes over a short distance, and throwing marble rocks through a horizontal column on the ground followed by crawling.
Chigwa also highlighted that the physical training includes carrying the marble rocks, climbing, and crossing a vertical column. Going underground to cross through inclined columns and then repeating the cycle.
“This Centre is where we do our initial training for both donning (underground) and non-donning (surface) teams. Initial training comprises theory and practical workload training.
“Workload training is done on a six-monthly basis at the same facility. Quarterly training is also conducted at this facility when combined with workload exercises.
“The facility offers endurance exercises such as throwing 10 sandbags over a wall, carrying 10 steel pipes over a short distance, and throwing marble rocks through a horizontal column on the ground followed by crawling. Carrying the marble rocks and climbing and crossing a vertical column. Going underground to cross through inclined columns and then repeating the cycle,” Chigwa said.