Rock Drill Operator
OFO No: 711302
What is a Rock Drill Operator?
A Rock Drill Operator handles rock-drilling machinery. They drill holes specifically for explosive charges so that blasting experts can blow up areas of the mine to release the ‘rock’ or to make tunnels and shafts.
What does a Rock Drill Operator do?
- selects the right size ‘bit’ for drilling
- prepared drilling equipment
- makes sure areas is safe to drill in
- drills holes for blasting
- regulates speed and pressure
- monitors drilling operations
- follows strict safety regulations
- maintains and cleans machinery
- maintains service records
Are you . . . ?
- interested in mining?
- responsible?
- reliable?
- an accurate worker?
- physically fit and healthy?
- safety conscious?
- a team player?
How do I become a Rock Drill Operator?
In most cases you will need a Grade 9 or NQF Level 1
PATH 1
- Most companies train-on-the-job.
- They have their own set of requirements and testing to become a Rock Drill Operator
PATH 2
- Learnership – Mining Operations Underground Hard Rock (Conventional Mining) Level 2 and 3
PATH 3
- Learnership – Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock (Mechanised Mining) Level 2 and 3
PATH 4
- Learnership – Underground Hard Rock (Narrow Tabular) Level 2 and 3
PATH 5
- Learnership – Surface Mining Rock Breaking Level 2
- Learnership – NC: Surface Mining and Quarrying Level 3
PATH 6
- Learnership – Surface Mining Rock Breaking Level 2
- Learnership – Rock Breaking Surface Excavation (Dimension Stone Operations) Level 3
PATH 7
- Learnership in Engineering Maintenance for Underground Coal Continuous Mining Level 2
- Learnership in Mining Operations Specialisation – Continuous Miner Operations Underground Coal Level 3
OR
- Learnership in Mining Operations Blasting Operations (Underground Coal) Level 3
PATH 8
- Learnership in Mining Operations Blasting Operation (Wall Mining) Level 3
OTHER CAREER TO CONSIDER: Mining Support Worker or Mine Ventilation Observer
Is becoming a Rock Drill Operator the right career choice for me?
