It will also examine how the hazards associated with the introduction of automated equipment may be controlled and the logistics issues associated with maintaining and sustaining high development rates, conference convenor Gary Gibson said.

“Until now, the roadway development process has largely relied upon human activity and involvement in its execution to perform tasks such as operating and steering of the continuous miner and the operation of roof and rib bolters and the handling of strata support materials and consumables,” he said.

“The involvement of humans in the development process in this manner exposes personnel to a range of hazards, with over half of equipment-related injuries occurring underground being associated with development operations.

“Further, the thrust for improved development rates necessary to sustain higher longwall production levels is likely to place increased physical demands on development personnel. For example, 40 tonnes of strata support materials is transported, handled and installed every pillar length – equivalent to 1.6 tonnes of materials per hour at a rate of 10 metres per operating hour.”

Guidelines have been introduced in an attempt to better manage the risk of human/machine interactions, while introduction of proximity detection and collision avoidance systems has been mooted.

In addition, a range of technologies is being developed which may reduce the exposure of personnel to hazards in the immediate face area and to repetitive strain injuries associated with manual handling of equipment, services, materials and consumables.

These emerging technologies (which include remotely steered and operated continuous miners, automated bolting and meshing, continuous haulage systems, self-advancing monorails, and rapid advance conveyors) will, however, introduce other hazards and challenges, particularly in respect to potential interactions between humans and automated equipment, Gibson said.

Expressions of interest are sought from personnel who have been involved in the automation of underground mining processes and equipment, and the human/machine interface between operators and automated/remotely operated equipment to lead workshop sessions and draw out the issues, challenges and opportunities as they apply to roadway development.

EoIs should be forwarded to Gary Gibson at gary@yarrowlumla.com.au by February 4, 2011, or contact Gary on 0418 422 817.