Master Drilling says it has formally partnered with Safescape as a retailer and installer of the Safescape Laddertube solution, strengthening the South African company’s commitment to improving underground mine safety by delivering a complete turnkey solution for escapeways in underground operations.

Conventional designs for escapeways are being replaced with systems that are built specifically for the harsh mining environment, with all mines affected by corrosion to some degree. Safescape Laddertube escapeways are designed using polyethylene and stainless steel so they are not subject to the same corrosion issues traditional ladders face.

A fully-enclosed product, the Laddertube is not impacted by water, salt or other mineral deposits, Safescape says. It requires minimal upkeep, fits comfortably within a 1.1 m raisebore and provides for the ultimate in user safety.

Laddertube was designed with mine rescue in mind, according to Safescape, with a straight line ladder system with landing gate style platforms. The design allows for a rapid stretcher extraction and has a built in fall arrest static line. Climbing with breathing apparatus is aided by the smooth interior surface of the ladderway. The design of the steps also allows the climber to use their lower leg muscles and reduces foot fatigue – a significant benefit compared with rung-style ladders.

Master Drilling said: “From drilling the raisebore, to installing the Safescape Laddertube, and equipping the shaft for emergency readiness – Master Drilling now offers a seamless end-to-end solution.”