ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN MINING
slowed. Particle size distributions can be analyzed, preventing any oversized pieces from being passed further along in the mineral processing process. Computer vision provides real-time alerts for any processing issues, so mines don’t forfeit precious time (and revenue). It automates inefficiency identification, so productivity is maximized and processing workflows streamlined.
Health and safety Mining jobs are some of the most dangerous and injury-prone, so monitoring workers’ safety is essential. Furthermore, investors and customers are prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors more than ever before, with employee safety being a key focus. Maintaining workforce safety while also scaling operations can be complex, but computer vision offers a solution. This technology can ensure personal protective equipment (PPE) compliance by automatically monitoring gear and alerting management of any workers not adhering to correct safety protocols. This can be done in tandem with facial blurring to protect worker privacy, solely alerting management to visit the scene and address any issues as quickly as possible. Computer vision can prevent safety breaches by monitoring hazardous zones as well. If workers enter restricted or unsafe areas, real-time alerts can be sent to mine operators to resolve breaches before they have the chance to potentially escalate. Fires, spills, and leaks can also be detected in real-time to proactively address safety and environmental hazards. Computer vision’s automated monitoring allows mines to get real-time alerts for any issues that occur to keep their workers protected and comfortable.
Computer vision can help tackle these pressures. This technology can monitor and count fauna to keep tabs on the environmental health around a mine site. It can also lower a mine’s environmental footprint by automating key sustainability processes like waste monitoring and energy management to reduce emissions and resource usage. For example, it can detect any water discharge anomalies to prevent pollution and costly fines. By tracking the distribution of tailings material, any unplanned accumulations can be identified to protect the dam wall. Computer vision provides real-time alerts for any environmental issues so they can be promptly addressed, and mines can stay productive.
Site security Mine sites are large, targets of theft, and difficult to keep tabs on at all times. Traditional manual monitoring is both expensive and prone to error. Thankfully, computer vision can help automate and protect site security, monitoring a mine site’s perimeter and sending real-time alerts for any unauthorized breaches or theft, so security can quickly respond to issues. Cameras placed around a mine site perimeter can detect any security breaches, and cameras placed around restricted areas and precious resources can alert for any pilfering and theft. Computer vision’s real-time insights secure sites and valuable materials, while also protecting worker safety and keeping ESG goals a priority.
Environmental monitoring As sustainability and ESG demands rise, tracking the environmental health on and around mine sites is important for protecting workers’ safety, wildlife, and the mines’ reputations. Mines are also facing stricter environmental regulations than ever before, requiring immediate compliance to continue operations.
AlwaysAI analytics dashboard showing real-time data on mining operations. CREDIT: ALWAYSAI
Computer vision is practical
AlwaysAI computer vision detecting unauthorized discharge. CREDIT: ALWAYSAI
40 | CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL
Computer vision is key for mining enterprises of all sizes because it is practical. It shows leaders what is happening in their business as it happens — acting as a digital superintendent. It offers the actionable data needed to make immediate sustainability and operational improvements and stay ahead in such a competitive industry. Building successful computer vision solutions is complex and time intensive, but end-to-end platforms exist where you can build, deploy, and manage applications in one place. Furthermore, if mining enterprises do not have the engineering talent to build solutions themselves, some computer vision providers will take over the entire process — constructing and deploying solutions for a mine’s unique needs and environment. Computer vision is the future of mining, and it is here to stay.
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