Zach Thomas
Baldivis,WA
Summary
Results-driven Blasting Operations Specialist experienced in developing and executing blast plans while ensuring strict safety protocols. Enhanced operational efficiency through effective safety compliance and risk mitigation strategies. Delivered safety improvements and operational success in high-stakes environments through strong problem-solving skills and effective communication.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Shot Firer
BHP
Mining Area C - Newman
07.2024 - Current
- Conducted pre-blast inspections to ensure adherence to safety protocols and operational standards.
- Collaborated with team members to develop and implement blast plans for optimal results.
- Monitored environmental conditions during blasting operations to mitigate potential hazards.
- Operated blasting equipment safely and efficiently in compliance with industry regulations.
- Assisted in training new staff on safe blasting techniques and equipment usage.
- Evaluated blast outcomes, providing feedback for continuous improvement of procedures and production.
- Implemented safety measures that reduced risks during explosive handling and application.
- Ensured timely project completion through effective communication with project managers and other team members.
- Established a strong safety culture within the team through consistent reinforcement of safety protocols during every stage of the process.
- Collaborated with geologists, engineers, and other professionals to develop comprehensive blasting plans tailored to specific site conditions.
- Developed contingency plans in case of unexpected situations or emergencies during blasting operations, ensuring preparedness at all times.
- Maintained strict compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing the use of explosives for various projects.
- Optimized drill patterns to maximize rock fragmentation while minimizing environmental impacts such as vibrations and noise levels.
- Reduced misfires by maintaining current knowledge of industry best practices, regulations, and technologies.
- Contributed insights to the development of new blasting techniques or technologies by actively participating in relevant industry training, development and coaching.
- Monitored employee safety and coached workers on safety standards and procedures to prevent injuries.
- Educated personnel on safe handling and use of explosives, avoiding injuries, misfires or compliance discrepancies.
- Supervised explosives loading operations, adhering to safety protocols and procedures.
- Identified and assessed potential risks related to blasting operations and implemented mitigation measures.
Electronic Initiation Technician - Dynos Consult
Dyno Nobel
Perth, WA
07.2022 - 07.2024
- Operated and maintained equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety standards.
- Conducted routine inspections and preventive maintenance on machinery, reducing downtime.
- Assisted in troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, improving response times to issues.
- Performed troubleshooting and diagnosis on malfunctioning equipment.
- Increased equipment lifespan, performing preventive maintenance and timely repairs.
- Improved system efficiency by implementing regular maintenance schedules for all technical equipment.
- Optimized system performance through testing and analysis.
- Trained new technicians on standard operating procedures, ensuring consistency across the team.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline production processes, enhancing efficiency.
- Participated in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance overall operational effectiveness.
- Optimized system performance through testing and analysis.
- Monitored inventory levels of supplies, ensuring timely replenishment for uninterrupted operations.
- Supported project management teams with expert technical advice, contributing to successful project completions.
- Maintained meticulous records of maintenance activities, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Demonstrated adaptability when faced with new challenges or technologies, enabling quick mastery of necessary skills.
- Increased customer satisfaction with prompt and knowledgeable support for various technical issues.
- Improved customer satisfaction, swiftly addressing and resolving technical inquiries and issues.
- Documented operational procedures and safety protocols for compliance and training purposes.
- Collaborated with internal departments to enhance communication and project alignment. to optimize productivity and efficiency.
Shot Firer - Blast Crew
BHP - Dyno Nobel
Newman, WA
03.2019 - 07.2024
- Executed blasting plans to maximize efficiency while minimizing environmental impact and risks.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to design effective blast patterns tailored to site-specific conditions.
- Conducted pre-blast inspections and assessments to identify potential hazards and ensure adherence to regulations.
- Operated and maintained blasting equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety compliance.
- Mentored junior blasters on safe practices, equipment handling, and regulatory compliance procedures.
- Minimized damage to surrounding structures by employing controlled demolition techniques.
- Managed storage areas for explosives in a secure manner to prevent unauthorized access or theft.
- Conducted post-blast assessments to evaluate outcomes against original objectives.
- Enhanced team efficiency by conducting regular training sessions on proper handling and disposal of explosives.
- Improved safety standards with thorough site inspections prior to blasting operations.
- Established a strong safety culture within the team through consistent reinforcement of safety protocols during every stage of the process.
- Maintained strict compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing the use of explosives for various projects.
- Reduced misfires by maintaining current knowledge of industry best practices, regulations, and technologies.
- Monitored employee safety and coached workers on safety standards and procedures to prevent injuries.
- Supervised explosives loading operations, adhering to safety protocols and procedures.
MPU Operator
Orica Mining Services
Port Hedland, WA
07.2009 - 07.2011
- Monitored production processes, identifying and resolving issues promptly.
- Operated heavy machinery in adherence to safety protocols.
- Aided loading and unloading materials at mining site.
- Assisted in loading and unloading materials for mining operations.
- Collaborated with team members to enhance workflow efficiency and safety standards.
- Maintained accurate records of production output and equipment status daily.
- Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing strict adherence to safety guidelines and protocols.
- Accurately documented all operational data, ensuring up-to-date records for review and analysis.
- Optimized machine settings to achieve superior product output, meeting and exceeding production targets.
- Enhanced operational efficiency by monitoring and adjusting production equipment for optimal performance.
Education
Bachelor's of Commerce - Management
University of Western Australia
Perth, WABachelor's of Commerce - Marketing
University of Western Australia
Perth, WASkills
- Safety compliance
- Safety training
- Explosive handling
- Coaching techniques
- Troubleshooting
- Problem-solving
- Project management
- Continuous improvement
- Time management
- Instructional skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Stakeholder engagement
- Organizational skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Relationship building
Certification
- Shot Firer Licence
- Dangerous Goods Security Card
- Dangerous Goods Drivers Licence
- RPA Drone Licence (25kg)
- Certificate 4 Leadership
- Certificate 4 Surface Extraction
- Dyno Nobel DGPS and Conventional Initiation Certification
- HR Drivers Licence
Timeline
Senior Shot Firer
BHP
07.2024 - Current
Electronic Initiation Technician - Dynos Consult
Dyno Nobel
07.2022 - 07.2024
Shot Firer - Blast Crew
BHP - Dyno Nobel
03.2019 - 07.2024
MPU Operator
Orica Mining Services
07.2009 - 07.2011
Bachelor's of Commerce - Management
University of Western Australia
Bachelor's of Commerce - Marketing
University of Western Australia
PASS-OUTS
- Appointed Shot Firer
- Appointed Magazine Keeper
- Appointed Blast Controller
- MPU Operator
- Drone Operator
- Autonomous Mine Star and Komatsu Systems
- Clearance Officer
- Blast Guard
- Dyno Nobel Digishot Initiation Systems
- 930 and 962 Wheel Loader Stemming
- In-Field Trainer
- All Surface Blast Crew Functions