Ross hoist ready to lower workers into Homestake

Pioneer staff report
Article Source

"According to the inspectors, who travel around the world certifying hoists, everything looked good. In fact, they were very complimentary about the well-maintained condition of the Ross hoists. This is a testament to the operating protocols and the fine work done by Barrick Gold Corporation and Homestake Mining Company in closing the mine in anticipation of donating the property for use as an underground laboratory," said Snyder."

Magnetic imaging rope testing was also done Thursday, June 14 with all ropes deemed in satisfactory condition.

Dynatec Mining Company, the firm hired to rehabilitate the mine down to the 4,850-foot level, will re-enter the mine starting at the 100-foot level. Re-entry is scheduled to begin this month. The inspection crew will include Dynatec personnel as well as S.D. Science and Technology Authority Safety Consultant Tom Regan, and Property Development Manager Greg King.

In late 2006 members of the Authority conducted a video inspection of the Ross Shaft, which showed everything in working order at the 5,000-foot level of the Mine. Dynatec's re -entry will be the first time personnel have traveled down into the mine since Homestake closed in 2003.

While it prepares to go underground for rehabilitation, Dynatec Mining Corp. is looking for underground emergency response personnel for the project. According to a recent press release issued by the company and the Authority, Dynatec will pay for all training and incident responses as well as a retainer for on-call. In addition, the company will pay safety training, physicals, and mileage.

"All of us involved with this project welcome applicants, especially those who serve in emergency response positions as employees or as volunteers," Snyder said.

Interested applicants may go online and register at www.sdjobs.org, or visit their local Career Center to obtain a Dynatec application. The office in Lead is located in the Smart Center at 308 Julius St. and is open Mondays and Wednesdays from noon to 4 p.m

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