How IoT technology can help prevent disruptions, accidents, and injuries

The mining industry is no stranger to adversity. Many of the challenges it faces today were the same decades ago. Worker safety, for example, is always a top priority for mining companies who are constantly driving to thwart preventable accidents and injuries. Likewise, mining companies continually strive to reduce downtime and the costs associated with such delays.

Minimising downtime and protecting workers with the Internet of Things

Use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology is on a rapid rise in the mining industry today as a key strategy to help prevent operational disruptions. To avoid equipment downtime, IoT-powered predictive maintenance solutions monitor machine variables like vibration, temperature, and moisture, noting any variance in expected parameters and notifying operators as needed, so they have ample time to act.

IoT sensors and devices enable machine-to-machine communication and deliver critical data and insights to human operators, so they can address anomalies and thwart system failures. Whereas in the past, personnel were typically only able to react to issues once they occurred, IoT-enabled predictive maintenance enables them to proactively replace a machine or part before it causes downtime. This digital transformation can result in massive cost savings and greater uptime for mining operations.

In addition to reducing equipment incidents, IoT solutions can also help avert accidents and injuries to personnel. For example, equipping a mining worker with a smart helmet (a hard hat with a built-in IoT module and sensors) allows mining companies to track that worker’s location and status. These smart helmets can alert personnel, whether notifying a reversing truck driver that someone is behind them, or notifying a worker about the presence of harmful or dangerous gases.

Challenges That impede the effectiveness of IoT deployments

Despite the versatility and value of IoT solutions in mining environments, connected technology can encounter challenges that impede optimal functionality. For instance, underground mining operations can have expansive tunnel systems several stories below ground that block signals. Similarly, mining sites are not always near a metropolitan area, but can be in a remote location far from communication infrastructure like cell towers. Mining companies must consider which type of connectivity they need to ensure their IoT-enabled devices and equipment remain operational.

One solution is to use cellular infrastructure, segmented to have a business-focused priority network and an Internet and connectivity solution for workers who need to communicate with their families or stream entertainment. A private network is another excellent solution, supporting enhanced quality of service and security, and giving the mining operation more control, since the company owns the infrastructure.

It is also useful to build a mesh network around the mine, where every node is a backup repeater. Having multiple routes for data, whether Wi-Fi and cellular, or a Zigbee mesh and Bluetooth, ensures that IoT devices and sensors can continue to send data to the data centre or gateway, even if one option goes down.

Not every mining operation is the same

IoT is an invaluable technology for mining companies today. Nowadays, companies have a range of IoT solutions, connectivity options, and protocols to choose from to meet their unique needs. To that end, it is helpful to seek the assistance of an IoT partner with expertise in connecting machines and remote monitoring solutions in demanding environments.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/13022025/how-iot-technology-can-help-prevent-disruptions-accidents-and-injuries/