Good reception towards shot-firers training course
KUCHING: The response to the shot- f irers training course organised by Sarawak Quarries Association ( SQA) was overwhelming.
Only those who have the Shot-firers’ Certificate are allowed to carry out blasting works in Malaysia. Over the past few years, the SQA has conducted an annual programme to train local quarry and mining industry personnel in quarry blasting. Simon Lau, Sarawak Quarries Association chairman
SQA chairman Simon Lau through a press statement said the increasing awareness of quarry safety among industry players proves their professionalism is in line with modern technology.
“Only those who have the Shotfirers’ Certificate are allowed to carry out blasting works in Malaysia. Over the past few years, the SQA has conducted an annual programme to train local quarry and mining industry personnel in quarry blasting,” he said at a seminar on quarry related issues here recently.
“Blasting is an essent ial part of quarrying and requires special knowledge and skills. The expertise is essential to achieve economical production costs whi le ensuring safety and health as well as environmental protection,” he pointed out.
Lau insisted that quarrying operations should not cause harm to the environment nor affect any neighbourhood.
On a pertinent matter, Lau urged quarry operators who are not yet members of the SQA to join the association.
SQA provides a forum for all quarry operators in Sarawak to discuss common issues, address challenges and gather data for dissemination to members. It also acts as a united platform to promote the industry and to liaise effectively with the government in order to realise the state’s development agenda.