The importance of a secure mine site

Mine sites are like clockwork. There are many thousands of moving parts, which all need to synchronise and operate correctly to get the work done. If there is even the smallest of malfunctions the whole operation can come to a halt. 

There are a lot of hazardous operations that go on at a mine site, involving explosives, large machinery, and other potential dangers. When something goes wrong it can be potentially dangerous to the whole operation, not only costing mining companies and investors a lot of money, but posing a risk to the people who actually work within mines. 

Modern-day mines have had an exponential increase in safety due to innovations in technology and management. Security measures and safety equipment keeps the workers safe, so they can return home. We’re going to explore some of the equipment and measures that play a massive role in the mining industry in this article. 

What are some security risks? 

As we have said, there are a few safety risks when it comes to mine sites, and it’s important to highlight them. To keep safe from the hazards, one must know what the hazards are.

Blasting

Explosives are tremendously important to mine sites; they are used to break apart large rocks, and expose any deposits. Not only is it faster, but it’s also more cost-efficient to blast rock as there are a number of other resources, tools and equipment needed to extract large deposits. 

As you are probably aware though, blasting requires an explosive such as ammonium nitrate. In the wrong hands, or even without the correct safety procedures and protocols in place, this could end in a potentially lethal mishap. It’s very important for all miners to be aware of when and where explosives are used. 

Machinery

Hauling trucks, excavators, drills and mobile vehicles are among some of the machinery used in a mine. They all have important dedicated jobs, from moving large quantities of materials, and blast hole rigs that drill holes for explosives to be placed later. 

Machinery and rigs require a lot of special training and work on a mine site, and need to be coordinated professionally so they can operate on a mine safely. It’s important to know where all machinery and vehicles are at any given point with an open line of communication to them to instruct them if there is any need to do so. It goes without saying: large machinery can be dangerous for anyone around if they are unaware or not paying attention, so it’s imperative to have measures in place so everyone can be as safe as possible. 

Security breaches

Explosives and machinery risks are pretty commonplace and most workers are aware of them. But there are other risks out there. Mines have a lot of valuable data, information and raw material. There is any number of reasons why someone may want to break in, either physically for the sake of vandalism or to steal valuable assets. If there is a safety breach, this is a major concern for the company, which may result either in the damage or misplacement of valuable resources. Whilst rare, it’s important that company owners offer a security system in place to prevent any future security breaches. 

Measures to prevent safety and security risks

There are a whole number of safety equipment and protocols that miners are required to know before they work in a mine. Whilst it’s not a complete list, here are some important safety equipment and measures that are used on mine sites in Australia.

Effective communication system

Having an open and effective line of communication is key to keeping everything running smoothly. Easily accessible information to anyone on site ensures that all workers are in sync and communicating, pointing out any potential safety risks. 

Mines are rural sites, especially within Australia, and can span multiple kilometres. So whilst it sounds like an unachievable task to get everyone on the same communication network, there is a solution to this. Communication skids are a great way to provide both power and a line of communication to the rest of the mine site, even in the most remote areas of a mine. So if there is a mishap with a vehicle or even explosives, all workers on the mine site are aware of the situation and can act accordingly. 

Access control

Mines can encompass a sprawling area, with many different roads and avenues to go down. To keep specific vehicles and machines in their dedicated location it’s imperative to ensure there is a system in place to keep them in the right location. Boom gates and access control points are great to put in key locations, so there is a regulation on what’s coming and going through the different areas of a mine site. If there is a contractor that has come onto the site for the first, time the mine is able to ensure they go to the correct location, and aren’t able to access parts of the mine they shouldn’t be in. 

Surveillance cameras

Having surveillance cameras is a must for any mine. They aren’t only great for monitoring and recording break-ins, but for monitoring the workers, and different areas of the mine. If there is an accident, or potential mishap waiting to happen, it will be captured on camera for later assessment. By having records of everything going on, managers, and workers are able to further refine and improve their work ethics, ensuring safety is their number one concern. As mines can span a large area, they’ll need some kind of power source to make sure everything is recorded. Mining surveillance trailers are perfect for this as they’re easy to position and install at any location and provide a direct feed of video and sound to any communication hub that needs it. These run on solar power and have diesel backup generators if need be. Not only do they provide an extra level of security but are energy efficient and keep running costs down with solar power.