Keep It Simple Is the Key to Success in Heavy-Haul

The author examines the "sophisticated simplicity" philosophy of Mike Darby, whose last position was as BHP Billiton vice-president overseeing the company's heavy-haul railway operations in western Australia's Pilbara region. Darby defines "sophisticated simplicity" as one where someone can "...take a traditional approach and turn it into a simple system by using proven technology, which is critical because there is no slack on a heavy-haul railway" when addressing delegates at a recent conference. Darby stresses the need for ongoing vigilance. The article presents four key philosophies developed by BHP Billiton for a fit-for-purpose railway: continuous improvement (such as a four step axle load increase from 28.5 tons in 1970 to 40 tons in 2005); using assets to full potential; emphasizing research and development; and "good safety is good business".

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/07445326
• Authors:
  • Briginshaw, David
• Publication Date: 2007-6

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: p 60
• Serial:
  • International Railway Journal
  • Volume: 47
  • Issue Number: 6
  • Publisher: Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corporation
  • ISSN: 0744-5326

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Assets; Heavy haul; Philosophy; Safety; Technology; Vigilance
• Identifier Terms: BHP Billiton
• Uncontrolled Terms: Potential; Sophisticated simplicity; Traditional systems
• Geographic Terms: Australia
• Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Finance; Freight Transportation; Railroads; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01053959
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 20 2007 9:56AM