Reducing Internal Theft By 90% For A Gold Mine In China

1. Project Name: (confidential on client’s request)
2. Country/Region: Southern China

Key Success Points:

Within 6-12 months, IASB through its specialised security plan successfully:
  • Reduced accidents and incidents by 60% and internal theft by 90%
  • Reduced significant losses;
  • Developed an untrained security force into becoming a professional outfit capable of dealing with local threats.
  • Improved relations with the local community through a non confrontational, win-win, collaborative approach between all stake holders.
  • IASB worked continuously with the local Police and guided local Police in such a way that arrests of organised criminals were increased by 200%.
The Scenario:

IASB was approached to provide a security solution for an Australian-owned gold mine in Southern China. Management’s topmost concerns were the prevention of theft and robbery, staff kidnapping, improving relationship with the local community as well as strengthening ties with local police.

After conducting an initial security assessment, IASB’s consultants began devising a plan that would involve both external and internal strategies. It called for security expertise and community relations skills integrated together to create a sustainable, cost effective and win-win solution for all parties.

Developing Internal Competencies :

Security starts with the organisation. As such, IASB introduced a special access system to restrict unnecessary movement throughout the site. Areas were re-designated with different clearance levels and staff were given access passes with varying security levels as per their job requirements.

In addition, security manpower was brought up to standard through intensive training. A proper Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was also introduced. The implemented Information Management System (IMS) also allowed for proper integration between data, communication and all security implementations. Critically, the IMS made a crucial difference in allowing IASB to monitor security trends / safety incidents and accidents and indicated the total cash value saved.

Building Strong External Relations

Realising that Public and Community Relations were crucial to long-term security, IASB established a security/community committee. This enabled IASB to educate community village heads and reduce opposition and fear towards the mine. The insights learnt from the locals also helped the mine operate with better sensitivity to the customs of the local area.

On a different note, IASB’s consultants, through their extensive knowledge on security and electronic systems, took the lead to negotiate better contracts for security systems. This helped the mine save thousands of dollars.

The Verdict

The implementation of a customised security plan that consists of intelligence gathering, monitoring, staff training and local community relations resulted in millions of dollars saved, reduced Loss Time Incidents (LTIs) and has enabled the mine to continue operating at higher levels of productivity.

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