Industrial IoT solutions providers Davra and IoTDC have announced what they say is a landmark partnership that merges their expertise to launch a state-of-the-art suite of software applications for the comprehensive safety monitoring of mining operations.

The announcement was made during the recent visit of the Irish Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister), Micheál Martin, to Wits University in Johannesburg.

This initiative builds on Davra’s established collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) on the Protelum project, ensuring stringent compliance with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM).

The advanced software suite focuses on real-time monitoring and management of tailings storage facilities (TSFs). By harnessing the power of advanced sensors, predictive analytics, machine learning algorithms, and Earth Observation (EO) data from the European Copernicus program and other sources, the software provides early detection of irregularities and potential hazards, thereby enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of mining enterprises, the companies say.

Additionally, the suite ensures full GISTM compliance, helping mining operators align with the highest international standards for tailings management safety and integrity, they claim.

Key features and benefits include:

• Real-time tailings monitoring: the software suite employs EO data from the Sentinel satellite constellation and IoT sensors to provide real-time insights into tailings dam stability, enabling swift detection and response to potential issues;
• Predictive analytics and machine learning: utilising the capabilities of AI, the software predicts and prevents potential incidents by analysing behavioural trends and patterns in tailing dam operations;
• GISTM compliance: the suite assists mining operations in achieving rigorous GISTM compliance, ensuring the utmost safety and integrity in tailings management; and
• Enhanced operational efficiency: with continuous monitoring and AI-powered analytics, mining operations can significantly improve productivity, reduce downtime and minimise environmental impact.

“We are thrilled to announce this partnership with IoTDC during the Irish Tánaiste’s visit to Wits University,” Paul Glynn, CEO of Davra, said. “By combining our ongoing engagement with ESA on the Protelum project and our cutting-edge IoT technology, we’re equipping mining operators throughout South Africa with an unparalleled tool to manage and monitor their tailings storage facilities.”

Ewald Fourie, CEO of IoTDC, added: “This collaboration with Davra brings together our local mining sector expertise and their global IoT and space data experience to deliver a unique solution. We’re confident that this technology will set a new standard for safety and sustainability in the mining sector.”