Located approximately 10km south of Kathu in the Northern Cape, the Sishen Airfield is a privately owned and operated aerodrome, which is licensed by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA).
Being in operation since the 1970s, the facility is primarily managed in support of the logistical requirements of Sishen Mine, facilitating the movement of personnel, management, contractors and scheduled aviation services between Johannesburg and the remote mining region.
As a SACAA-licensed facility accredited with an international standards document, ICAO Annex 14 green audit status asphalt runway, the airfield is the only one in the mining region that is open to service the public, facilitating approximately 170 flights and 3,700 passengers safely year to date.
To meet regulatory requirements and improve emergency response, Kumba Iron Ore, along with key stakeholders, recently conducted an emergency drill at the facility, simulating an airplane explosion resulting in casualties at the airport. The objective of the simulation was to gauge the response capabilities and effectiveness of emergency services within the area.
Stakeholders involved in executing the emergency drill included Airlink airline, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Department of Health (Forensic Pathology), Gamagara Fire Department and Disaster Management teams, Assmang Khumani Mine, local hospitals and private emergency medical service providers, amongst others.
Reflecting on the exercise, Tshepiso Mosoma, Fire Prevention Section Manager at Kumba Iron Ore and emergency drill project lead, highlights the importance of collaboration regarding emergency preparedness and response:
“The Sishen Airport is a strategic asset for both Kumba Iron Ore and the region. It unlocks a lot of economic value for local businesses and the communities in the area.
As a facility that provides a service to the public, it is critical to ensure that the safety of passengers is not compromised. The Mass Causality Emergency Drill performed at the airport simulated a plane explosion with multiple Injuries and fatalities. We therefore activated a lot of resources for this simulation, including Doctors, Paramedics, Defense Force personnel, an Air Rescue Helicopter and Ambulances, to identify gaps, improve protocols and formulate strategies should such an event take place.
We are grateful to all the stakeholders involved in executing this operation. It is a step in the right direction in ensuring emergency responders in the area are prepared and equipped to carry out their duties effectively and diligently.”
