Agnico Eagle, earlier this year, introduced a new remote-operated firefighting and intervention robot to support underground emergency response teams in Quebec, Canada, marking a milestone that, it says, reflects the company’s commitment to health and safety and the strength of collaboration across its operations.
Developed through nearly two years of research and testing, the initiative brought together health and safety teams from LaRonde, Goldex, Odyssey and the Support and Development Centre (CSD) Innovation team. The result is a state-of-the-art intervention system designed to help emergency responders operate more safely and effectively in complex underground environments, Agnico Eagle claims.
Benoit Massicotte, Corporate Director, Health and Safety, said: “This project was born from a desire from the health and safety team to protect our underground emergency responders and create a safer environment for our mine rescue teams.”
Engineered to perform in challenging underground scenarios, the multi-functional robot can operate in temperatures exceeding 500°C and includes an automatic cooling system to maintain performance in high-heat conditions. Equipped with thermal cameras, long-range firefighting capabilities and remote-control functionality, the system allows mine rescue teams to assess conditions, identify hot spots and intervene while reducing direct exposure to hazardous environments.
The system also includes a backup underground communication system and can transport emergency materials, helping responders gather critical information and support intervention efforts more efficiently.
Karel Raymond, Health and Safety Superintendent at LaRonde, said: “What I like about this technology, in terms of underground mine rescue, is that it helps secure and protect rescuers during their approach. I think this is really going to help the work of rescue teams.”
While remote-operated emergency response systems are becoming more common in some industries, Agnico Eagle’s team recognised an opportunity to explore their application in underground mining environments.
“There are currently no intervention robots being used in the mining industry worldwide,” Massicotte said. “This led us to look at acquiring a vehicle or an option for underground mine rescue operations.”
The system was introduced earlier this year following an investment of approximately C$1 million ($712,613), with teams already trained in its use and additional operational readiness work continuing throughout the year. Although the robot has not yet been deployed in an emergency situation, the goal is clear: strengthen underground firefighting effectiveness while enhancing the safety of rescue personnel once on site.
Beyond the technology itself, the project also demonstrates the strength of collaboration across Agnico Eagle’s Quebec operations, the company says.
Strategically housed at Odyssey in a dedicated emergency response trailer, the system is positioned to support regional emergency coverage across nearby sites. The trailer includes the robot unit, breathing apparatus, a high-efficiency fire pump and essential equipment required for rapid underground deployment.
“For Goldex, LaRonde and Odyssey, it’s truly a major advantage,” Josée Michaud, Health and Safety Superintendent at Goldex, says. “It’s also the synergy between the three teams. Having operations located close together within the same organisation also represents the future. It gives us a unique opportunity to share projects across sites, leverage each other’s expertise and strengthen the safety of our people.”