Tuesday, October 27, 2009

RFID - Resurgence in Mining Industry


Mining operations around the world are beginning to realize the tremendous benefits of real-time tracking systems utilizing RFID technologies. Here are just some of the benefits already being enjoyed today:



Safety: Real-time visibility of the accurate location and status of employees is
paramount at all times, but especially in emergencies. RFID systems can remain
operational during accidents, allowing you to know the precise location of personnel
during an emergency, thus greatly reducing respondent response time. RFID can also
be used to quickly locate emergency equipment such as respirators, first-aid kits and
fire suppression equipment.



Asset Management: Manage materials, equipment and personnel more efficiently with
automatic identification solutions. Accurately account for the status and location of all of
your equipment, thus dramatically improving asset utilization, and streamlining the
maintenance and repair process.



Collision Avoidance: NIOSH studies calculate that collisions between haulage
equipment and pedestrian workers or other vehicles claim an average of five lives each
year in surface and underground metal/nonmetal mining operations. Many more
workers are severely injured. New developments in RFID systems can significantly
reduce the risk of collisions, by providing automated alerts when problems appear likely.



Security: RFID can be used to limit workers from using unauthorized equipment as well
as prevent access to unauthorized areas.



No single solution works for every mining operation and a fit gap analysis is recommended so as to ascertain the cost, benefits and best technology and partners to utlise.

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