Accidents happen. Even in broad daylight. A momentary lapse of concentration on a minesite can have devastating consequences.

Risk factors increase immeasurably under the cover of darkness, when even the most basic errors can prove fatal.

Mining companies everywhere are working tirelessly to eliminate dangers in every sector of the industry.

The ability to see in the dark would be, at the risk of understatement, a distinct advantage. The latest thermal imaging technology could present a significant change to the way mining companies operate at night.

Australian firm Madison Technologies has developed a range of thermographic cameras and sensors.

“Based on the proven M15 system platform, the new M15D-Thermal from Mobotix offers brand new application options,” a spokesman for the company explained.

“In combination with the camera’s existing sensors and the analysis capabilities of the camera software – MxActivitySensor, video motion detection, event logic, etcetera – it is now possible to reliably detect people and cars and their direction of movement, even in complete darkness.

“The modular design of the M15D system platform ensures maximum flexibility for the Mobotix thermographic camera.”

The thermal sensor is capable of detecting in complete darkness, or through smoke, smog or plastic film. It is also possible to eliminate objects of no primary concern, enabling users to focus only on the targets of critical importance.

Thermographic cameras clearly don’t eliminate all the risks that face miners working nightshift.

But how effective can this technology be if deployed at blind spots or areas of a load and haul cycle that have been identified as posing a potential collision threat?

The cameras themselves are modular and capable of being adaptable to most applications. If, for instance, they were deployed at a haul road crossroads, or congested traffic point, the technology has the ability to provide a proximity alert warning, should machinery or personnel risk collision.

The Mobotix camera also provides video capture, allowing analysis of any incident or near miss that it captures.

When it comes to safety, any gain is significant, regardless of how small.

The cameras have a very wide working range with regards to temperature, making them capable of operating in the blistering heat of the Australian sun – not just offering effectiveness at night time.

The modern family car employs sensors to aid parking, so why not use thermographic technology on a minesite?

Autonomous truck fleets already operate within defined zones and are programmed to stop if there’s risk of collision.

Thermographic technology might not be as common in industry. But experience tells us that technology can be adapted to suit a specific application, especially if it offers the potential to reduce risk and increase safety.