In an effort to meet the requirements of a multimillion-rand contract with mining giant BHP Billiton, hydraulic components and systems supplier Hytec has modified its field service vehicles to ensure that safety is not compromised.
The contract was awarded last year for work in Witbank, Mpumalanga.
Hytec installations manager Desmond Scott says that prominent mining areas, such as Witbank, are notorious for thick, heavy mist, which increases the risk of accidents involving mining vehicles.
Hytec has modified its field service vehicles to comply with the stringent Astrum certification.
“Passengers may no longer be transported on the back of a bakkie. Four vehicles, all double-cab Toyota bakkies, were fitted with the latest safety equipment,” Scott explains.
The modifications include rubberisation of the interior, fire-resistant upholstery, airbags, cargo nets, fire extinguishers, flashing lights, reverse sound indicators, two-way radios, roll-cages, reflective strips, identification stickers, life jackets and buggy whip flags.