In the mining industry, safety is paramount. The challenges posed by long hours, heavy machinery, and the potential for operator fatigue necessitate innovative solutions that not only protect workers but also enhance productivity. Hexagon has emerged as a leader in this arena, winning the prestigious Safety award in the Integrated Safety category.
The Mining Technology Excellence Awards honor the most significant achievements and innovations in the mining industry. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies leading change and shaping the future of the industry.
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Hexagon won the award for developing a comprehensive platform that effectively addresses operator fatigue and enhances overall mine safety through advanced technology, data-driven insights, and a proven change-management methodology.
Comprehensive mining safety solutions and advanced technology
Hexagon has developed an advanced platform that seamlessly integrates multiple safety systems, including collision avoidance, operator alertness, personal protection, and vehicle intervention. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of mine safety are addressed, providing a robust framework for protecting workers and assets alike.
A standout feature of Hexagon’s offering is its Collision Avoidance System (CAS), which boasts the largest global install base with over 65,000 units deployed across more than 100 open-pit and underground mine sites worldwide. This extensive deployment demonstrates the scalability and effectiveness of Hexagon’s technology. CAS provides 360-degree operator awareness, utilizing advanced sensor technology to detect potential collisions in real-time. This capability is crucial in environments where visibility can be compromised by dust, fog, or other challenging conditions.
In addition to CAS, Hexagon’s Operator Alertness System (OAS) employs machine-learning algorithms to actively monitor operators’ alertness levels. By analyzing data from sensors, OAS can detect signs of distraction or drowsiness and send real-time notifications to operators. This proactive approach is vital in mitigating fatigue-related incidents, which account for a significant percentage of workplace accidents in the mining sector. For example, Gold Fields Ghana reported a remarkable 91% reduction in fatigue-related incidents after implementing OAS and CAS at its Tarkwa mine, showcasing the tangible benefits of these integrated safety solutions.
Flexibility and adaptability: OEM-agnostic solutions
Hexagon’s commitment to providing OEM-agnostic solutions ensures that its safety technologies can be adapted to mixed fleets and varied site conditions. This flexibility allows mining companies to implement consistent safety and productivity standards across their operations, regardless of the equipment they use.
The ability to integrate with various Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) means that Hexagon’s solutions can be deployed without the need for extensive modifications to existing machinery. By fostering a culture of safety that transcends specific machinery, Hexagon empowers clients to maintain high operational standards while prioritizing worker well-being.
Moreover, Hexagon’s solutions are designed to evolve with the industry. As mining operations increasingly incorporate digital and autonomous technologies, Hexagon remains at the forefront by continuously updating its systems to meet emerging challenges. This commitment to innovation ensures that clients can rely on Hexagon not only for current needs but also for future advancements in safety technology.
Real-world impact: Success stories from leading mining companies
Hexagon’s partnerships with leading mining companies illustrate the tangible benefits of its integrated safety solutions. At Gold Fields Ghana’s Tarkwa mine, the implementation of OAS and CAS led to a significant reduction in fatigue-related incidents. The mine’s Safety & Occupational Hygiene Manager highlighted how the data-driven insights provided by these systems allowed for targeted interventions that improved overall safety culture.
Similarly, Codelco’s Chuquicamata mine has leveraged CAS to enhance operator safety while maintaining productivity levels. As one of the largest open-pit copper mines in the world, Chuquicamata employs approximately 10,000 people and has been operating since 1910. The integration of CAS has enabled Codelco to prevent interaction events between larger and smaller vehicles, ensuring that safety measures are effectively implemented without compromising operational efficiency.
At MMG’s Rosebery mine in Tasmania, the OAS system has been instrumental in addressing operator fatigue in a challenging underground environment. The adaptability of OAS to the mine’s specific conditions has ensured its successful integration into daily operations. The system not only monitors fatigue, but also provides valuable data that allows management to proactively address potential risks.
These success stories highlight Hexagon’s ability to deliver impactful safety solutions that resonate with the industry’s pressing needs. By fostering partnerships with clients and focusing on continuous improvement through change management and data insights, Hexagon is redefining what it means to operate safely in the mining sector.
“Like our customers, Hexagon believes that people are a mine’s most important asset. Our safety solutions lead the market, but technology is just one layer of mine safety. Change management and data insights are essential, too. What makes our safety partnerships successful is the shared understanding that even when solutions are integrated, operators must still be engaged and re-engaged in a cycle of continuous improvement.”
– Dave Goddard, Executive Vice President, Mining
Company Profile
Hexagon is the global leader in precision technologies at any scale. Our digital twins, robotics and AI solutions are transforming the industries that shape our reality. Hexagon’s Mining division solves surface and underground mine challenges with proven technologies for planning, operations and safety. Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 24,500 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately €5.4bn. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.
Links
Website: https://hexagon.com/mining
