November 18th, 2019 | Updated on June 25th, 2022
Technology has helped a number of industries to expand in recent years but with the integration taking full effect in the mining industry, safety regulations and daily operations of plants are improving.
But how has safety for those living in the local area as well as workers been made better by this? In this article, we will be looking into some of the ways that mining has been made safer by technological advancements.
1. Emission Control
One of the biggest benefits that technology has had on the mining industry is the ability to monitor harmful emissions being released into the atmosphere as part of the mining process.
Whether this is monitoring C02 emissions, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particle matter within the site itself or in the surrounding area, monitoring systems have helped to make mining safer for workers as well as those living nearby as it prevents contamination of water supply.
2. Automated Machinery
In addition to the emissions control, it is important to note that automated machinery has also helped to make mining much safer than in years previous.
Whether this is exploration drilling equipment that can reach new depths or automated digging machinery to send down into tunnels, this all reduces the risk to human life and ensures that everyone is safe.
Though these are often more expensive due to their technological advancements, it is important to note that they are specially designed to reduce the risk on sight whilst providing a much safer working environment as a result over time.
3. 3D Printing For Custom Parts
Efficiency is everything when working to a tight deadline, but a 3D printer can help to fix machines quickly should there be a break. Though this is only a temporary solution, a 3D printer can be used to create parts and keep the machine running until the actual part arrives.
Though this is only in the beginning stages of integration, this is set to be a game-changer for the industry helping to ensure that all machines running safely. This also helps to reduce downtime as a result of a broken part which could lead to the company losing money.
4. Information Accessing Through The Cloud
Information shared between a number of different mining sites is yet another way that technology has helped to make the industry safer as absences, any product recalls or even potential gas leaks can all be reported and shared around.
This can then be accessed by HQ and other relevant officials to ensure the utmost safety for your workers as well as those in the local area.
In addition to this, cloud software also allows for data to be tracked in real-time to provide up to date information on any issues to get them resolved as quickly as possible.
Though the mining industry is yet to be fully modernised, technology has begun to make the mining industry much safer for all those involved. How will this continue in 2020? Only time will tell.
