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Preventing collisions involving surface mining equipment: a GPS-based approach
1Spokane Research Laboratory, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Spokane, WA 99207, USA. ter5@cdc.gov
Journal of Safety Research
|May 10, 2003
Summary
A new proximity warning system (PWS) using GPS technology can help prevent fatal mining accidents. This system warns haulage equipment operators of nearby vehicles, personnel, or terrain changes, enhancing safety in surface mining operations.
Area of Science:
- Mining engineering
- Occupational safety and health
- Geospatial technology
Background:
- Surface mining operations experience an average of six worker fatalities annually due to collisions or equipment falling from edges.
- Existing mining equipment lacks adequate systems to detect nearby hazards in blind spots.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate a proximity warning system (PWS) to mitigate collisions and edge-related accidents in surface mining.
- To integrate a PWS with existing GPS technology on mobile mining equipment.
Main Methods:
- Developed a PWS utilizing global positioning system (GPS) and peer-to-peer communication.
- Demonstrated the system on a surface mining site with an off-highway haul truck, smaller vehicles, and stationary structures.
Main Results:
- The PWS successfully identified nearby vehicles and structures.
- The system provided timely visual and audible warnings to the equipment operator when hazards were within a preset proximity.
Conclusions:
- Integrating PWS technology with existing GPS systems in surface mining is feasible.
- A comprehensive PWS could significantly reduce mining-related collisions and edge-related incidents.