Published in August 2006 American Longwall Magazine

Austdac’s system ensures all conveyors and longwalls are linked together via separate surface pairs, which allows for total control of all the communication underground.

The system can be linked to the telephone exchange, which means each conveyor and longwall has its own dedicated extension number, allowing any surface telephone to phone directly to any conveyor, or any person on a conveyor to phone any surface telephone or any other conveyor underground.

The integrated communications network can also be interfaced with other existing systems such as radio or existing page phones.

“This overall system not only increases productivity due to increased communication but in an emergency situation allows the surface operator to link all the underground units together and to send one evacuation tone underground,” Austdac said.

“A voice message can then be initiated giving instructions on the best means of escape. It also allows pit personnel to communicate directly to the surface with their locations, number of people and informing them of any other areas of concern.”

In hardwire systems, if a roof collapse or explosion does occur, it is likely that the cable in these sections of the mine will be damaged.

However, if the majority of the systems are still operational, then the Ausdac system will still assist in directing the majority of the underground personnel to a safe area or to the surface.

Austdac said its MSHA-certified status meant the system can be used in a power down situation since every communication unit has its own internal battery, which is charged down the line.

“A mine should adopt a hard wired system along with either radio, tagging or through the ground communication to try to ensure a total coverage in the event of a major incident underground,” the company said.