SAFETY
all , on what data is available and can be readily acquired to be imported and used for the noise map . Today ’ s technology means more realistic simulations are possible with distinct advantages over using measurements alone . A measurement yields only one noise level and it is impossible to find how much noise came from which source . Simulations can identify each level and source .
“ Simulations allow you to predict future levels of noise , whereas measurements cannot occur until the entity making the noise is physically there . When noise levels can be measured or calculated , it opens up the possibility of introducing theoretical noise reduction measures and evaluating possible improvements . So simulations allow you to work with ‘ what-if scenarios ’ prior to building . This could mean positioning equipment differently , or setting up conveyor equipment in a different place , for example .
“ Once you ’ ve created a noise map for your mining installation , you can introduce controls to start defending workers against the problem noise . It takes a reduction of just a few decibels to significantly lessen the risk of hearing loss and the many other health issues excessive noise causes .”
An important way to help safeguard workers hearing , is to modify or replace the noisiest equipment or to adapt the environment around them . Using low noise and well maintained equipment or placing a barrier between the worker and noise source are relatively simple steps , but where it is possible to do so , they can have a huge impact on people ’ s lives .
“ Whether planning a new mining operation or looking to improve an existing one , workers need to be protected from noise and simulation software helps solve noise issues .”
Breathing and respiration
Respiratory expert Scott Safety has introduced Duraflow , a lightweight and ergonomically designed Powered Air Respirator ( PAR ) with sophisticated real-time air flow control technology . “ The new solution gives complete wearer assurance of respiratory protection to focus on the job rather than the protective equipment itself , in a multitude of hazardous situations and industries .
Mark Andrews , Global Product Line Manager Powered Air , Halfmask & Airline at Scott Safety said :
Duraflow is a lightweight and ergonomically designed Powered Air Respirator ( PAR ) with sophisticated realtime air flow control technology
“ Our design intent for Duraflow was to bring to the market a reliable , durable-powered air product at an affordable price for those currently using respirators with filters fitted directly to the mask ( negative pressure mode ).”
Duraflow ’ s automatic monitoring features ensure the airflow rate is maintained at precisely the correct level to afford protection for the user . Visual and audible diagnostics alert the user of any drop in airflow below the required level or when the battery needs re-charging . Two high energy density battery options are available – standard and extended duration , which can be selected depending on shift coverage required – less downtime , more working time .
Duraflow will help employers meet the needs of workers across all demographics with its low respiratory burden . Changes in lung function in older employees working in manual positions can reduce their ability to undertake certain active tasks . By providing workers with a cooling stream of purified air , Duraflow can for some workers make the difference between whether a job can be completed or not . “ Highly versatile , Duraflow is compatible with a plethora of Scott Safety headtops , filters and accessories , protecting workers from a variety of environmental hazards .”
The new 3M Versaflo™ Powered Air Purifying Respirator TR-600 “ represents an evolution of technology ” says the group . Designed to endure heavy use and long wear , the respirator can help enhance comfort , endurance and ease of use .
The lightweight respirator is engineered to increase comfort – even for long shifts . The ergonomic design fits close to the body , allowing for greater movement in tight work spaces . It offers multiple airflow rate options for user comfort , and belts designed to be wide and contoured with flexible air channels to minimise heat buildup . The TR-600 has two powerful lithium-ion battery options , reducing downtime by performing up to eight hours . Audible , visual and vibratory alarms reflect filter and battery status to keep workers informed and to help avoid lowairflow situations and automatic low-power shutdowns . “ The user-friendly design features intuitive , interactive touch points , and provides tool-free maintenance ,” said Chris Sneden , Marketing Manager , 3M Personal Safety Division . “ It also meets
IP67 standards with cleaning and storage plugs to enable full submersion , for easy cleanup and decontamination .”
3M ’ s TR-600 respirator can be used in a wide variety of applications such as in mining – leveraging an extensive range of NIOSHapproved filters and cartridges . It also is compatible with a variety of headgear , offering integrated protection for eye , head , face , skin and respiratory protection .
Mine rescue
Focus FS , a leading provider of industrial worksite systems , recently announced the release of their latest software product , Shift Rescue . The announcement happened during the 10th International Mine Rescue Competition ( IMRC ), hosted by Workplace Safety North and Ontario Mine Rescue , which took place in Sudbury , Ontario in August 2016 . Shift Rescue is an all-in-one under oxygen mine rescue incident application used to digitally capture incident data including team captain information , briefing officer reports , map viewing and mark-ups , photo sharing , activity alerting , and postincident reporting . “ Shift Rescue will significantly enhance and improve how information is collected and shared during an under oxygen Mine Rescue event ,” says Nicole Darbaz , Director of Products and Marketing at Focus FS . “ The system collects and distributes critical rescue information during both team training and live rescue events . Shift Rescue applies to mine rescue competitions such as IMRC , but most importantly , it ' s been developed for annual mine rescue team training and reallife incidents .”
The application is deployed on rugged tablets and is used underground where network connectivity may or may not be available . The information collected underground is shared with the briefing officer and control group above ground who assess the information and make time critical decisions .
From August 19 to 26 , 2016 , 27 teams representing 13 nations competed in different events at the IMRC including an underground scenario , firefighting , first aid , and more . Focus FS with the help of Ontario Mine Rescue developed the Shift Rescue product to be deployed and used during the competition . “ We could not have chosen a more suitable venue to launch our Shift Rescue product ," says Jeff Brown , President of Focus FS . “ This is a globally recognised competition with mine rescue personnel from around the world . Early feedback we have received from mine executives , mine rescue teams , and the industry in general has been very positive . The exposure has been tremendous .”
The overall IMRC winner was the team from Kirkland Lake Gold . “ The 10th International Mines Rescue Competition was a real milestone in the competition ’ s history . The event ’ s
International Mining | OCTOBER 2016