Collisions between heavy and light vehicles, as well as underground vehicles and pedestrians, are amongst the most common types of accidents on mine sites. These accidents, caused primarily by poor visibility, can be reduced or even prevented. The CWS 800 collision warning system, recently supplied by Booyco Electronics to a copper mine in Zambia, increases situational awareness and minimises accidents by actively alerting the operator and mineworkers to imminent threats. “We have a strong footprint of installations in South African mines, but this is the first cross-border order we have received for the CWS 800. The system, which is currently being installed, will service all underground miners,” says Managing Director of Booyco Electronics, Anton Lourens.

A single blind-spot accident, even without injuries, can put mining operations on hold for days. The resulting repair costs, equipment downtime, administrative requirements and lost productivity all have a significant impact on the bottom line. This is why collision warning and intervention is high on the list of priorities for mining companies. As attention on the health and safety of mineworkers continues to escalate, mines are forced to provide employees with tools that enhance their wellbeing. “A Mining Industry Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) focus group, known as the Transport and Machinery Adoption Team, is recommending processes to address the widespread adoption of safe practices. It would therefore behove mine management to consider automated accident prevention technology,” Lourens points out.

Currently, as one of the largest suppliers of collision warning systems in South Africa, Booyco Electronics has 35,000 miner lamp installations in South African mines. “However, in order to comply with legislation, a substantial increase in the number of systems on mines is required. We have noticed that other cross-border countries, such as Zambia, are taking note of the very positive results the CWS 800 collision warning system produces in improved accident containment on our local mines,” Lourens adds.

A collision warning systems consists of a sensor that detects the presence of an object, an interface that provides an audible and/or visual alarm to the equipment operator and wiring between the two. Very low frequency (VLF) technology is best for warning pedestrians who work near moving machinery, while ultra-high frequency (UHF) signalling is applied to warn the operators. The CWS 800 system employs both technologies for increased accuracy and reliability. “Supplying dependable safety systems to the mining sector is a top priority at Booyco Electronics. Our strategic alliances with VAK Technical Solutions and Selectronic Funk-und Sicherheitstechnik ensures that Booyco Electronics is able address the specific needs of the industry with regard to collision warning systems. We will continue to service the needs of the local market, whilst concurrently expanding into sub-Saharan countries,” Lourens concludes.