Using technology to support a safe working environment

Recognising that vehicle-related incidents are a top risk at our Hidden Valley operation, we leverage the benefits of technology to help prevent accidents, support safety behaviours and routines, create operational efficiencies and bolster data analysis to improve our performance. During FY24, our advanced equipment training simulator was upgraded, and our collision avoidance and operator alertness systems upgrade commenced to reflect the latest technology.

Collision avoidance system

This system, installed on all equipment operating on the mining lease, uses state-of-the-art technology to provide detailed information on surrounding traffic. Its key features include sophisticated traffic awareness, collision warnings, over-speeding alarms, excavator-operation area warnings, and customisable geofenced warning zones.

Benefits include:

• Traffic alerts give drivers an opportunity to avoid potentially dangerous situations
• Collision and red zone warnings help drivers react swiftly and stay alert to prevent an accident
• Speed limit alerts prevent speeding
• Warning zone alerts enable supervisors, safety managers and drivers to be more cautious and avoid potentially dangerous areas where mining activities are taking place.

Operator alertness systems

• To detect driver fatigue and distraction, operator alertness systems are fitted to our haul truck fleet, to our bus fleet for transporting employees, and to our logistics fleet
• The system fitted to our haul trucks integrates with our collision avoidance system and monitors a variety of factors such as head position, eye closure and speed to determine if the operator is becoming fatigued or distracted
• Haptic (vibration) and audible warning alert haul truck drivers when the system detects any signs of fatigue or distraction, allowing them to take corrective action before an accident occurs
• Dispatch is alerted if the in-cab system detects any abnormal behaviour so that personnel can quickly intervene, notify the supervisor, and assist the driver.

In the coming year, we are considering the deployment of this technology for all light vehicles and small trucks at Hidden Valley.

Advanced equipment training simulator

This state-of-the-art training simulator:

• Is equipped with cutting-edge technology that includes a curved visual display, professional-grade simulation hardware and software, stereoscopic 3D and head-tracking technology
• Provides scenario-based training; a valuable tool in progressing trainees to safely commence on-the-job training and equipment operation.

The site has interchangeable kits for the 785 dump truck and PC2000 excavator.

High-precision GPS

In the coming year, we will deploy a high-precision GPS solution on drills, excavators and dozers. Along with the production benefits associated with more accurate operations, safety benefits include:

• Enhanced operator awareness: Real-time data and visual aids improve situational awareness for operators, reducing the likelihood of accidents and increasing safety during complex manoeuvres or operating in restricted space
• Identifying geofencing and restricted zones: The technology can define geofenced areas and restricted zones, ensuring that equipment operates only within designated safe areas, thereby minimising the risk of entering hazardous locations, e.g., close to highwalls or geotechnically activity areas
• Minimising exposure to dangerous conditions: The need for surveyors and geologists to enter operational areas to mark out levels or boundaries is reduced, because this information is available to the machinery operator in their equipment cab. This enhances safety while ensuring accurate design and as-built data is captured.