ADE focus on innovation as key to improved workplace safety

Fatalities on mine and construction sites account for approximately 22% of all work-related fatalities each year in Australia and this year, sadly, 37 employees across both sectors have already lost their lives to work related incidents.

In comparison to other high-risk industries, such as transport, postal and warehousing and manufacturing sectors, where fatality rates dropped in 2015, both construction and mining fatality rates have continued to increase. A fact that General Manager/Director of ADE Clive Gray says is both concerning and in some cases avoidable.

“Statistically, the mining and construction industries are two of the most dangerous areas to work in,” he said, “particularly when there is the need to operate large machinery vehicles, which account for a high percentage of incidents.

“While the mining industry is still in a flux with operations seeking alternative ways to cut costs, the health and safety of employees should always be a top consideration for all companies and there are innovative solutions out there designed specifically to resolve some of these very serious risks,” Gray continued.

Some of the major mining hazards constitute equipment operation, dust management, falls from heights and transportation on the surface as well as underground, however, systems are now available to improve potential dangerous work conditions.

As a company whose core business is to provide safe and efficient solutions for the mining and construction industry, Gray believes lives can be saved by ensuring the industry are adopting innovative products into work procedures.

“Many may find it difficult to justify investments in new equipment for profitable processes but the complex conditions across both mining and construction sites require solutions that are adaptable to ensure employees are working in the safest conditions possible,” Gray added.

“Back in 2015, falls from height accounted for 15% of fatalities. We’ve developed access systems to ensure miners and construction workers are able to safely enter operator cabs and service points on high standing equipment, offering organisations with a safer means to access systems like loaders, excavators and drill rigs,” noted Gray.

“Those who are able to integrate innovative solutions, designed to address some of the key hazards onsite, to their current operations will see increases in safety, better workplace operations and increased productivity, and a better workplace for Australians in the resource industries.”  ADE’s fleet of solutions also include the world’s only measurable water spray system that can deliver consistent, measurable water coverage for managing dusty haul roads and reduce hazards like truck slides and vehicle rollovers.

With workplace safety a key consideration, ADE are leading the way in global innovation, developing unique products that improve productivity and safety, and aid in reducing hazards and fatalities for those in the mining and earthmoving industry.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/mining/09102017/ade-focus-on-innovation-as-key-to-improved-workplace-safety/