What to Expect in Drill Rig Operator Training: Course Breakdown & Requirements

Get Certified with MQA-Accredited Drill Rig Training Designed for Surface and Underground Mining Operators

If you're considering a career as a drill rig operator, it's important to understand what the training involves. At LWTS, we offer comprehensive, MQA-accredited training programmes designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and certification you need to operate safely and professionally in mining and construction environments.

Who Should Attend Drill Rig Training?

Our drill rig operator training is ideal for:

• New entrants into the mining or construction industry

• Equipment operators who need formal certification

• Contractors and companies looking to upskill staff

• Individuals seeking job opportunities in Northern Cape’s mining towns such as Kathu, Kuruman, and Postmasburg

No prior experience is needed for our entry-level programmes.

Course Breakdown: What You’ll Learn

Our drill rig operator courses combine theory and practical training to ensure you're job-ready. Here's what the course typically includes:

1. Introduction to Drill Rigs

• Types of drill rigs (surface, underground, percussion, mechanised, long-hole)

• Key components and how they function

2. Pre-Operational Procedures

• Conducting equipment inspections

• Checking hydraulic systems, compressors, and control panels

• Workplace hazard identification

3. Drilling Techniques

• Setting up and operating drill rigs

• Drilling small-diameter blast holes

• Drilling dimension stone blocks or long holes underground

4. Safety and Compliance

• Understanding Mine Health and Safety Act regulations

• Emergency stop procedures

• PPE and safe operating practices

5. Post-Operation Procedures

• Proper shutdown and equipment maintenance

• Reporting and documentation requirements

6. Practical Assessment

• Hands-on operation of drill rigs in a simulated or real environment

• Instructor feedback and performance evaluation

Types of Drill Rig Training Offered

We provide training for various types of rigs, including:

• Percussion Drill Rigs

• Mechanised Drill Rigs

• Long-Hole Underground Drill Rigs

• Surface Mining Drill Rigs

Each course is tailored to the specific rig and application environment.

Entry Requirements

To enrol in our drill rig operator course, you must:

• Be 18 years or older

• Hold a valid ID or passport

• Be physically fit for field work

• Have basic literacy and numeracy skills

Certification

Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a Certificate of Competence aligned with MQA unit standards and recognised throughout South Africa’s mining and quarrying sectors.

Training Locations

We offer drill rig operator training at our accredited training centres and can also travel to your site. We serve clients throughout South Africa, including:

• Northern Cape (Kathu, Kuruman, Hotazel, Postmasburg, Kimberley)

• Mpumalanga, Gauteng, Limpopo, and more

Enquire Today