Project Overview

Speed Structures was commissioned to design, manufacture, and install a durable zinc storage warehouse for the Rosh Pinah Zinc Mine in southern Namibia. This project required a robust, high-performance solution tailored for the harsh environmental and operational demands of a mining site, with the primary purpose of housing and storing zinc safely and efficiently.

Design and Manufacturing
The key design challenge was accommodating the structure within a confined, predefined space on-site, while also addressing the occupational health requirements of working with zinc. The team had to operate in full PPE – including masks and fixed gloves – to mitigate exposure to zinc elements during the design and site assessment phases.

To ensure the structure could endure Namibia’s extreme arid climate, Speed Structures used PVC certified for high UV resistance and heat durability. Additionally, the warehouse required unique custom features, including a 5m high clearance and large 5m x 5m sliding doors to accommodate regular vehicle access. All materials and specifications adhered to the necessary UV certification and structural engineering standards for mining applications.

Logistics and Transportation
Speed Structures partnered with Namlog Logistics to coordinate the complex transportation process. Despite the remote location, all materials were successfully delivered to Rosh Pinah, though extended shipping times posed logistical challenges that required meticulous planning and scheduling.

On-Site Installation
The structure was erected in just 10 days by Speed Structures’ skilled crew, with oversight from Rayno, the branch manager, and Chris, the technical and design manager. The desert environment introduced several operational constraints: persistent dust, high heat, and strict safety regulations due to the presence of lead and zinc. Team members underwent mandatory pre-site training and adhered to strict safety protocols, including the use of full PPE. To protect workers from exposure, work rotations were limited, and additional equipment – such as earplugs, gloves, and respirators – was used throughout the installation.