AN AUSTRALIAN coal mine is boosting safety to its workers by adding Wi-Fi-based visibility technology to its operations.
Xstrata is integrating AeroScout’s Active RFID technology to its Beltana longwall operation in New South Wales to boost safety and efficiency.
Wireless technologies are being noted as a viable and practical way of monitoring and tracking miners and equipment in dangerous mine sites.
The ImPact Digital Communication System and ICCL cap lamps track 200 workers underground and 50 diesel vehicles throughout the mine.
Workers wear cap lamps containing tags that track their location over the mine’s Wi-Fi network. The real-time location of every worker can be viewed on a map using MobileView software.
The technology can also automate the muster process in emergencies to ensure all workers are quickly and accurately accounted for.
AeroScout says the technology optimises safety to miners without loading them with additional equipment.
According to the company, the Wi-Fi compatibility allows mines to use the same infrastructure for personnel safety, equipment management, energy savings and improved communications.
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