The Shova Face Advance provides for easy, fast collaring, thereby ensuring on-mark drilling for Rock Drill Operators (RDO's) . The accurate, in-line thrust achieved by the Shova Face Advance increases penetration rates and reduces drill steel wear. Consistent, fixed drill hole depths ensure a straight face shape and easy face cleaning after blasting. This reduces the number of blasts required to advance the desired distances. The Shova Face Advance can readily drill top and bottom holes parallel to hanging and foot walls respectively, thus maintaining desired stope width.

The semi-mechanised Shova Face Advance drill rig significantly reduces noise level and vibration exposure for the operator. The RDO does not need to stand behind the rig at all times, greatly reducing the risk of injury in the event of gas pocket interception during drilling. In addition, the drill advances toward the rock face, not the operator, allowing the operator to remain under supported ground at all times. The Shova systems take the skill and strength that would normally be required of the RDO and engineers it into the drill rig. 

Therefore, the need for physical force on the part of the RDO is greatly reduced, as are overall equipment handling times. Fogging is greatly reduced, as the drill exhausts into the enclosed guide shell.

Overall, semi-mechanisation reduces the skill, experience and strength levels required of the RDO, while enabling the RDO to operate in a significantly safer environment. The result is improved RDO efficiency, greater production yields and higher production bonus earnings.