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IP cameras ensuring mining efficiency

The mining industry has come under severe criticism regarding the safety standards in South African mines. Mining houses have responded by placing safety and security at the top of their agendas and seeking solutions that will aid them in their quest to lower the number of incidents experienced in mines.

One of the starting points for most mines in regard to security upgrades has been to replace ageing analogue surveillance and monitoring systems with the latest IP (Internet Protocol) surveillance technology.

“As the market leader in IP surveillance systems, Axis has assisted mines with the roll-out of IP solutions in both South Africa and the rest of the world,” says Roy Alves, country manager, Axis Communications, South Africa.

The mining sector, which accounts for about 20% of the company’s business, started showing an interest in network cameras and IP systems for process control, particularly to monitor machinery such as conveyor belts to ensure they work properly.

IP cameras have embedded intelligence that enable them to alert operators when a selected machine stops working as required. This technology is able to detect movement or the lack of it, as well as sound at a predetermined decibel level. The cameras automatically alert operators when a certain machine starts vibrating abnormally or stops working, or if the machine starts emitting excessive noise, which can be a sign of damage.

Due to their ability to draw power from their Ethernet connection, network cameras do not need designated power outlets at the location of the camera, and can easily be set up to cover the vast areas that are commonly occupied by mining sites.

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