Optimizing Light Vehicle Fleet Longevity: Addressing Operational, Environmental and Maintenance Challenges at the Tarkwa Mine Site

This study examines the key factors contributing to the short operational lifespan of the light vehicle (LV) fleet managed by Engineers and Planners Company Limited at the Tarkwa Mine in Ghana. The research aims to identify the environmental, operational, and maintenance factors that negatively impact vehicle durability, and to offer recommendations for improving fleet management practices. A mixed-method approach was used, incorporating quantitative analysis of vehicle lifespan data, maintenance logs, and failure rates, alongside qualitative insights from interviews with fleet managers, maintenance staff, and vehicle operators. The findings revealed that harsh environmental conditions, including rough terrain and high temperatures, played a major role in accelerating vehicle wear and tear. Additionally, overloading of vehicles and inconsistent maintenance practices significantly contributed to increased failure rates. Vehicles that missed preventive maintenance sessions had a notably higher failure rate compared to those that followed maintenance schedules. The study also uncovered issues with part selection and procurement policies, where components not designed for the demands of the mining environment were frequently selected, leading to premature mechanical failures. The recommendations emphasize the importance of enforcing load limits, adopting preventive maintenance schedules, investing in advanced diagnostic tools, and revising procurement policies to prioritize durable parts suited for harsh mining conditions.