The Wash Plant Operative is responsible for the safe, efficient and reliable operation of the wash plant and associated quarry processing equipment, ensuring production targets, product quality standards and customer requirements are achieved whilst maintaining the highest standards of safety, environmental compliance and housekeeping. The role also includes the operation of loading shovels for the loading of aggregates and management of material stocks. The role may, at times, also involve using other equipment such as telehandlers, forklifts etc.
1. Health, Safety & Environmental Leadership
- Demonstrate a visible commitment to Health, Safety and Wellbeing at all times.
- Work in compliance with site risk assessments, safe systems of work, permits and company procedures.
- Report all hazards, near misses, unsafe acts and unsafe conditions immediately.
- Participate in safety initiatives, toolbox talks and behavioural safety programmes.
- Ensure environmental controls are maintained and operated effectively.
- Support compliance with environmental permits, site standards and company policies.
- Challenge unsafe behaviour and contribute positively to the site's safety culture.
2. Wash Plant Operations
- Safely operate and monitor the wash plant and associated processing equipment.
- Ensure plant performance is maintained to achieve production and quality targets.
- Monitor process performance and make routine operational adjustments within authorised limits.
- Maximise plant availability whilst minimising waste and inefficiencies.
- Identify abnormal operating conditions and take appropriate corrective action.
- Ensure production performance is accurately communicated during shift handovers and daily meetings.
3. Loading Operations
- Operate loading shovels safely and efficiently in accordance with site procedures.
- Load customer vehicles and internal transport to the required standard.
- Maintain stockpile integrity and segregation standards.
- Conduct routine loading area inspections and ensure safe traffic management practices are maintained.
- Support stock management activities and stock reconciliations when required.
4. Product Quality & Process Control
- Monitor product quality through routine inspections and operational checks.
- Ensure products meet customer and specification requirements.
- Identify quality issues and support corrective actions.
- Maintain awareness of key quality performance indicators and operational standards.
- Assist with sampling and quality control activities where required.
5. Inspections, Monitoring & Defect Reporting
- Complete pre-start inspections and operational checks on plant and mobile equipment.
- Carry out routine workplace inspections in accordance with site standards.
- Accurately record defects and operational issues using approved reporting systems.
- Escalate critical plant issues promptly to supervisory and maintenance teams.
- Contribute to improved equipment reliability through effective defect management.
6. Maintenance Support
- Support planned maintenance activities and plant shutdowns.
- Assist maintenance teams during inspections, repairs and operational testing.
- Participate in equipment isolation and permit systems as required.
- Ensure plant is left in a safe condition for maintenance activities.
- Support initiatives to improve plant reliability and reduce downtime.
7. Housekeeping & Workplace Standards
- Maintain high housekeeping standards across operational areas.
- Ensure work areas are free from unnecessary hazards and obstructions.
- Promote workplace organisation and visual management standards.
- Maintain cleanliness of plant, equipment and associated work areas.
- Support site appearance and environmental improvement initiatives.
8. Continuous Improvement
- Actively identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, productivity and reliability.
- Participate in improvement projects and operational trials.
- Share ideas and best practices with colleagues and management.
- Support implementation of operational improvements and standardisation activities.
- Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Wash Plant Operative employer: Lhoist
Lhoist is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our Hindlow site where innovation and teamwork are at the forefront of our operations. We prioritise employee growth through continuous training and development opportunities, while also fostering a supportive culture that values collaboration and excellence in manufacturing high-quality lime products. Join us to be part of a global leader committed to sustainability and quality, where your contributions will make a meaningful impact.