Zinkgruvan

Install PED System

MINE: ZINKGRUVAN
OWNER: RIO TINTO
TYPE: ZINC
LOCATION: SWEDEN

BACKGROUND

Management at Zinkgruvan Mine decided to upgrade the communication systems at the mine. Though a leaky feeder system was installed, the limited line-of-sight coverage of the radio system did not meet their emergency warning requirements. After a review of available technologies, including a on site demonstration of the PED System using a temporary antenna, PED was chosen as it was the only system to truly meet their mine wide signaling requirements.

COMPOSITION

The system consists:

• A 4,000 m (13,200 ft) antenna located underground.
• 250 of personnel PED Rceivers.
• 10 underground Stationary Receivers.
• 37 AutoPED vehicle receivers

DESCRIPTION

The system consists of a 4,000 m (13,200 ft) antenna located underground. The antenna is in two main parts running between 350 & 650 Levels in one area, and 650 & 800 Levels in another. Though relatively short for the size of the mine, this antenna provides coverage to the whole underground operation. 250 of personnel PED Rceivers are used for all personnel going underground.  Additionally 10 underground Stationary Receivers are also installed at workshops, offices, refuge area underground. These units not only display PED text messages, but are also interfaced sirens and lights to ensure any incoming emergency message is brought to the attention of people in the vicinity. The siren and flashing light would also help locate refuge bays, etc if the atmosphere was smoky during an emergency.

JUSTIFICATION

The prime justification was safety. Zinkgruvan had analyzed their emergency preparedness and had judged the critical element of emergency warning could be greatly improved by the introduction of PED. The PED System’s ability to provide mine wide coverage ensure that a warning could be issued much more quickly to all personnel underground than the existing stench gas and radio systems. Also, the ability to send actual messages were judged as offering significant benefits over just issuing an alert. Being able to provide information on the nature and location of an incident, such as a fire, can greatly enhance the successful evacuation of personnel, as well as the coordination of rescue and fire fighting efforts.