ZAC Proto members recognised for long service
20 November 2023, Johannesburg
Press Release
ZAC Proto members recognised for long service
Despite the risks associated with mine rescue and recovery missions’ Proto members across the South Africa remain devoted to saving lives and providing exceptional service to the industry. The Mine Rescue Services South Africa (MRS) recently hosted a Gala dinner in Secunda, Mpumalanga to honour its members from all over the country.
ZAC Proto team Captain Sizwe Mbatha along with his colleagues Rudi Soll and Zimisele Mazibuko were amongst those celebrated at the occasion. MRS, a member of the International Mines Rescue Body (IMRB), has teams across various underground mines in South Africa. The Proto teams respond to emergencies such as fire outbreaks and search and rescue missions. Mbatha, a General Engineering Superintendent stationed at the mine’s Ngwabe Shaft received recognition for 15 years of service. He has responded to a total of 16 call outs throughout his career. “I was inspired to join Proto because I wanted to help save lives. It means a lot for me to have stayed 15 years in the service” said Mbatha.
Before being admitted into the team, members go through fitness assessments. The process begins with a heat tolerance test and pre-screening, followed by a week of comprehensive training and advanced rescue team member training. A typical team on a mine consists of at least 5 people and members also attend refresher courses to upskill. Soll who is vice-captain of the ZAC team said he was honoured to have served for 10 years, adding that he is committed to. “Being a part of Mine Rescue Services is a great honour and a dream come true for me,” he remarked.
The role played by Proto members is captured by the words voluntate servio,’ or ‘voluntarily we serve’ inscribed on the organisation’s badge. Mazibuko, Mechanical Foreman at the Maye B shaft says the skills gained during the training are invaluable, adding that Proto was also based on the comradery shared with teammates. “As you go through the rescue and recovery missions, you start to appreciate life even more,” said Mazibuko.
The ZAC’s MRS Coordinator Ulrich Geldenhuys commended the team members saying it takes incredible determination and passion to stay committed. The mine’s General Manager Wiets Beukes said MRS is a well-run organisation with strong leadership. “We are proud of outstanding level of professionalism and the value they add to our industry,” Beukes concluded.
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Siphiwe Tame
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