The band Jamiroquai described canned heat in the heels as an inspiration to dance and boogie when times are tough. Unlike the dance floor anthem of the late nineties, a miner experiencing the same level of high temperatures is a sign working conditions are dangerous. Mining occurs in some of the most remote and rugged parts of the world. Extreme heat is one factor mine sites need to manage to ensure their personnel and equipment are not impacted.
What is Heat Stress?
Heat stress occurs when an individual literally overheats from exposure to high temperatures. The body’s core temperature rises faster than it can get rid of excess heat. This usually occurs when workers are subjected to high humidity and air temperatures, radiant heat sources and physical activity. The stress can cause cramps, fainting and heat stroke. In extreme cases, this can be fatal.
Managing Work In High Temperatures:
There are a number of ways to mitigate workers being exposed to heat stress:
Limiting physical tasks when temperatures are high:
Where practically possible, scheduling work outside of extreme conditions or utilising equipment instead of personnel for manual tasks can mitigate illness from heat exposure.
Ensure regular access to cool water:
This is stipulated by mining regulatory bodies but better access to hydration stations (ideally with air conditioning) will enable workers to take more frequent breaks. Safe Work NSW recommends a small cup (200ml) of cool water every 15-20 minutes.
Acclimatisation:
This is less likely to be possible in countries such as Australia, where a bulk of workers are usually flown in for projects from cooler parts of the country. If time cannot be afforded to adjust to weather conditions before working, utilising break times and hydration is even more important.
Ensuring Mining Equipment is Suited for Extreme Heat Conditions:
Another factor to consider is the safety technology used on mine sites. As with humans, extreme heat can cause equipment to falter and not work at all. For any safety technology deployed such as pedestrian detection systems (PDS), it’s a non-negotiable they continue to operate in all extreme conditions. Proxicam, The AI-powered human detection system has been specifically engineered to protect personnel in harsh mining conditions.
The smart camera can be fitted to any plant equipment used on a mine sites from forklifts to excavators. Proxicam uses artificial intelligence to detect humans in any form, alerting operators in real time via audio and/or audio visual alerts. The quality in manufacturing is a key reason Proxicam is recommended by Tier 1 miners such as BHP:
- – Water and dust: The die-cast aluminum camera is rated to IP69K, meaning it is completely dustproof and can withstand high-pressure, high temperature water spray. Proxicam will work even after ongoing exposure and cleaning from high pressure hoses.
- – Durable components: Proxicam includes a modular stainless steel bracket. The extremely durable material won’t rust or bend out of shape, making it suitable for any vehicle.
- – Keeps its cool: The camera will tolerate the most extreme temperature conditions faced by miners with an operating temperature of up to 70ºC and a storage temperature of up to 80ºC.