Martin, which usually conducts training in person and on-site, said critical training options have become limited during the coronavirus pandemic, and as a result it amended its offering to those who maintain, manage and design conveyors to help improve sites' productivity and safety.

The segments, at 90-120 minutes each, were created on topics such as safety best practices, fugitive material and belt tracking. Once complete, attendees can receive either professional development unit (PDU) or continuing education unit (CEU) credits, and put their knowledge to use immediately.

"The pandemic has impacted our ability to teach traditional classes at customer sites," chief executive emeritus Todd Swinderman said. "But it doesn't reduce the need for conveyor operators and facility managers to obtain the benefits and continuing education credits those sessions provide; even the most remote locations can take advantage."

Martin's preferred platform for online training is Zoom, but trainers are also able to use Google Meet, Microsoft Teams and Webex. It has taught about 2,000 individuals since the start of the pandemic.

"We've presented these modules to learners in coal handling plants, cement manufacturing, aggregate production and pulp and paper mills. We've also provided training for industry consultants, service providers and engineering firms who design conveyors and plants," customer service manager Jerad Heitzler said.

Swinderman estimated that the firm has trained more than 50,000 miners, operators, maintenance staff and management personnel around the world.