Improving shovel safety using SAFEmine’s situational awareness technology

Abstract

Mining operations involve a lot of risks that can be controlled through engineering and process control. The human factor; however, is extremely difficult to protect againstquantify and control. Best practices, proper rest, and a good work/ life balance contribute to safer operating conditions, but there is no way of predicting when an employee has a bad day. Impacts of external stresses that are beyond the control of the employer can be minimized by implementing safety technology such as Hexagon Mining’s theSAFEmine SAFEmine collision avoidance system. Technology is another layer of protection, but it does not give the desired outcome without proper implementation, business processes, and continuous effort to improve. Aecon has successfully completed a pilot project with the SAFEmine system and has committed to operating a 5500 shovel and supporting dozer with the system. This paper aims to outline the process and results obtained during the pilot project.