In the field, miners conduct hydraulic monitor mining operations that only require simple equipment and a low level of technical skill. Each sluice pumps 12 tonnes of ore daily: a very high volume of ore compared to yield. All equipment, such as the standard pumps and carpets sold in the town, reflect the standardized field processes that have evolved.

Miners feed slurry through a sluice for eight hours to yield around ten grams of gold a day.

Trainers worked alongside miners to find ways of optimizing their sluice designs.

The aim of the field program was to attempt to optimize the whole mining process from start to finish: thus increasing miners’ incomes by increasing gold capture and reducing mercury release to the environment by advocating reduced levels of usage, and recycling technology, including the use of closed retorts for burning amalgam in the field.

Trainees learn how to operate the ‘Fauzi’ retort.

Alternative technology addressed the capture stage with an optimized sluice-box design; the separation stage with an elutriation concept; the amalgamation stage with the use of a closed-drum; the burning stage with retorts; and the purification stage with fumehoods.

A demountable sluice-box was part of the TDU equipment.

Four different government departments participated by providing staff who were trained to implement the program. These trainees attended two training events which were both theoretical and practical. They later transmitted this practical information and guidance to the mining community and the urban community through the activities of the TDU.

Trainees discuss burning amalgam in various kinds of retorts.

Thus, the trainees became the main information mobilizers, acting directly with individuals and groups to raise awareness and understanding, and to motivate and assist direct users of mercury to instigate safer practices. The trainees were supported by the public awareness media campaign and were provided with five sets of instructional and informational booklets to provide to different target groups.

Trainees practiced presenting the media materials and equipment to different audiences.

The Global Mercury Project team received government support from the Head of the Regency.