MMG Rosebery says it has become the first mine in Australia to introduce fatigue detection technology in its underground operations, installing the HxGN MineProtect Operator Alertness System across the site in Tasmania.

The system, from Hexagon’s Mining division, has for the first time been installed in underground vehicles to detect fatigue and distraction in real time during 12-hour shifts, further strengthening the safety measures already in place to protect Rosebery’s 530 strong workforce.

Rosebery Mine General Manager, Steve Scott, said MMG continues to look at new and innovative ways to enhance safety across the mine site.

“Our number one value is we always think safety first, and nothing is more important than ensuring all our people go home safely at the end of each day,” he said.

“We recognise that with long shifts, fatigue can become a hazard and this technology enables us to continue to assess the fatigue risk of our underground truck operators in real time.”

The camera technology sits on the vehicle’s dashboard and will send alerts through audible sounds and seat vibration when it detects fatigue and distraction.

Rosebery Mine worked with Hexagon to install the technology in 11 underground trucks with 81 operators now registered to use the system.

Scott said the feedback from MMG’s people using the system has been overwhelmingly positive.

“They’ve seen real value in the technology because it not only helps them to recognise that they’re tired, but also manage their fatigue better after their shifts,” he said. “We have a culture at Rosebery where we encourage a positive and safe workplace, and this is just another initiative that helps us achieve that.”

The Rosebery Mine is one of Tasmania’s largest and oldest continuously operating, underground mines producing zinc, copper and lead concentrates, as well as gold doré.

Pictured is Chantelle Moretti, an Underground Truck Operator at Rosebery, holding the card to log onto the HxGN OAS.