The Durban branch recently sponsored a visit by a group of engineering students to the SAPREF refinery. On arrival, the students were briefed and given a safety induction and after lunch they were addressed by branch chairman Howard Lister. The advantage of joining the SAIMC and having the opportunity to mix with experienced C&I practitioners was emphasised. Howard also highlighted the practical benefits of seeing an installation like this before the group was taken through the plant by SAPREF training officer, Kevin Naidoo, who explained the variety of instrument and control system installations.
Howard Lister (left) with the group of students who did a tour of SAPREF refinery during August.
The visit was part of an initiative by the branch to show students how the SAIMC can put them in contact with organisations that can offer them vacation work or a full time career.
Technology Evening
Howard Lister (left) thanks Kevin after the presentation.
The Durban branch September Technology Evening was kindly sponsored by Phoenix Contact and group manager CIS & IE, Kevin Preston, gave an interesting and stimulating presentation on ‘The Basics of Functional Safety in the Process + Mining Industry’.
Kevin has gained vast experience in the fields of industrial electronics and automation over his career and he was well qualified to lead us through the presentation which covered a basic understanding of functional safety in the workplace and included examples of historical accidents which led to the formulation of standards and regulations. Kevin also went through risk identification and analysis coupled with the multitude of parameters for the SIL (Safety Integrity Level) classification/ certification. With very few standards currently being enforced by the local authorities to ensure correct SIL standards are being met and implemented in South Africa, changes in legislation and implementation of these standards will become more stringent as more formalisation and education takes place.
The evening was well attended and as was evident by the questions and interaction afterwards, this was an interesting and topical subject.
Site visit to Safal Steel
On 5 September, branch members were warmly welcomed at Safal Steel maintenance by manager Marc Roolvink and his team of two technicians and the electrical engineer. After a short introduction, Tammy Grove took over and did a marketing presentation on the history of the company and the products. During the tour the Safal team did not hold back on detail in response to questions from the group; making it a very informative walk-through of the processes from start to finish.
(Left to right): Eddie Horn, Diedre van Niekerk, Mark Thom, Carl Reinecke, Lucas Esterhuize. (Eddie Mohlmann just missed the photo.)
All too soon the group found themselves back in the boardroom enjoying a second helping of snacks and cold drinks and another question and answer session. The branch extends its sincere thanks to the management and staff of Safal Steel for a most enjoyable visit.
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