Mining companies transport workers to the mine site using various methods, depending on the location of the mine, workforce preferences, and logistical considerations.
Transporting workers to mining sites is a critical aspect of maintaining a skilled and productive workforce. Mining companies continually assess and refine their transportation strategies to ensure safe, cost-effective, and reliable movement of workers, promoting both the well-being of employees and the successful operation of the mine.
The choice of transportation method depends on the specific needs and circumstances of each mining operation. In this article, we will explore the three most common transportation methods used by mining companies: FIFO (Fly-In, Fly-Out), BIBO (Bus-In, Bus-Out), and DIDO (Drive-In, Drive-Out).
Fly in Fly out (FIFO)
A FIFO worker will fly to a job site to work, depending on the length of their roster ( more commonly known as ‘swing.’) The swing could be anything from one to three weeks and then the employee will fly home.
Rosters vary, depending on the companies arrangement, with their employee. It is cheaper for the employer to fly an employee to the site for the length of their roster as opposed to permanently relocating the employee and their family.
Drive in Drive out (DIDO)
DIDO workers drive themselves to the mine site and stay onsite for the duration of their roster. Some D.I.D.O workers report that the long distances they are forced to drive at the end of an extended night shift can cause them to fall asleep at the wheel. Research has shown that D.I.D.O workers with extended rosters and longer shifts are more likely to suffer from burn out and subsequently ceasing employment. DIDO and Fatigue
Bus in Bus out (BIBO)
BIBO stands for “Bus-In, Bus-Out.” BIBO workers will be collected from the airport or a specific location and taken to the camp by bus. They will then be transported back by bus once their work shift is complete.
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Residential
Some mine sites are located in regional areas, and the company hire from the local communities. You will need to relocate or be living in the local area. Some sites will provide daily transport to and from the mine.