Technology to prevent collisions on mine sites has been rapidly advancing, but its application is no simple matter. Booyco Electronics CEO Anton Lourens says that – despite the challenges – there is both the will and the collaboration to allow mines to benefit from the innovations in this field.

The production of world-leading proximity detection systems (PDS) is growing steadily at Booyco Electronics’ facility in Jet Park, Gauteng. This local facility is a shining example of what can be achieved through ongoing investment in technology and expertise – serving to make mining and other sectors safer places to work.

As mines systematically assess the risks related to their trackless mining machinery (TMM), they increasingly see the value in proximity detection systems (PDS). With tighter safety regulations on the way, most surface mines in South Africa are making the right moves in good time, according to Booyco Electronics.

The number of trackless mining machines (TMMs) in South African surface mines which are already fitted with a proximity detection system (PDS) – also known as collision prevention systems (CPS) – is an indication that the global adoption of this safety technology is likely to accelerate in the near future. 

Booyco Electronics and global technology specialist Wenco International Mining Systems have established a partnership that sees both companies collaborate on the deployment of Level 9 PDS solutions for the mining sector, locally and internationally.

Despite the accelerated uptake of proximity detection systems (PDS) on surface mining operations, Booyco Electronics is warning against the apparent exclusive focus on vehicle-to-vehicle detection, at the expense of vehicle-to-people solutions.

Putting a proximity detection system (PDS) or collision prevention system (CPS) in place in a mining operation is a process that cannot be rushed, says

Investing constantly in engineering expertise and technical capability, South Africa-based proximity detection system (PDS) and collision prevention system (CPS) specialist Booyco Electronics has focused on changing market needs as its guiding light for innovation.

Mine safety has been greatly enhanced by proximity detection systems (PDS), thanks largely to the technology’s evolution in South Africa – where Booyco Electronics has remained at the centre of key technological advances. Working with local and global bodies, the company has rapidly developed solutions that now promise even more flexibility and stability.