The voice over internet protocol (VoIP) handset component, designed for underground two-way communications, now completes the communications and tracking system’s ability to be MINER Act compliant.

MinePhone, already deployed in metalliferrous operations, uses the previously-approved ImPact Wi-Fi network as its two-way voice and text communication backbone along both primary and secondary escapeways.

Private dialing between other phones on the network, as well as the mine’s outside telephone system, is also possible with the handset.

MinePhone has 24 channels, emergency calling capabilities and push-to-talk functionality, much like traditional radios in use at mines.

Key to the system’s digital backbone are its Wireless Network Switches. WNSs also serve to read the Wi-Fi RFID tag workers underground carry on their person, and makes mine-wide communications and tracking achievable on just one communication network.

“MST’s MinePhone is a breakthrough in underground voice and messaging communications, offering functionality never before available in coal mines,” MST chief executive officer Lloyd Zenari said.

“The safety and productivity benefits for mining operations have quickly become apparent in metal mines and we expect the acceptance to be quicker still in coal operations.”

MST’s MinePhone is available now.