The Canadian company is developing installation procedures and best practices for ActiveMine – a 100% wireless two-way voice communications and tracking system for underground miners.
The initiative – a key building block for commercial deployment of the technology – is now underway and will utilise the previously installed ActiveMine demonstration network.
The company said ActiveMine was designed to improve underground mining safety and enhance operating efficiencies through wireless, real-time electronic tracking of personnel and equipment, and robust two-way voice communications with each miner.
ACT will develop a manual for the installation and operation of ActiveMine for mine personnel.
The US Mine Safety and Health Administration has agreed to send a representative to observe the benchmarking process.
“By establishing standards for wireless voice communications and locating in underground mines, this initiative will move us toward our goal of improving the safety and efficiency of underground mining worldwide," company CEO Steve Barrett said.
Last month the company successfully tested ActiveMine at International Coal Group’s Viper mine in Illinois.
ACT said the pilot test established that ActiveMine could provide two-way voice communication, real-time locating and tracking of personnel and assets.
