Managing and mitigating mining risks efficiently

Real-time data helps mining operators address risks and compliance issues before these become critical.

Mining, a potentially dangerous industry dealing with the extraction of minerals like iron ore, gold, lithium, nickel and coal, demands stringent oversight for safety and efficiency. To address these challenges, Sphera has introduced its Control of Work (CoW) for Mining solution, drawing on extensive experience in mining and operational risk management.

Designed specifically for metals, mining, and mineral processing industries, Sphera’s CoW for Mining offers dynamic checklist capabilities, robust isolations management, lockout/tagout (LOTO) features and mobile permitting.

Its online/offline functionality ensures accessibility in remote locations, enabling real-time management of activities and faster permit turnarounds aligning with safety regulations and corporate standards, thereby enhancing the operational environmental, social and governance (ESG) foundation.

The global shift towards clean energy technologies, driven by decarbonisation and net-zero goals, reshapes the energy production landscape.

Mining companies must diversify their portfolios to meet the rising demand for critical minerals essential in renewable energy technologies, including turbines, generators, panel, and grids. Sphera’s CoW for Mining addresses the hazards in mining and smelting processes, stressing the urgency for a digital solution to reduce the risk of injury and enhance industry competitiveness amid the accelerating transition to clean energy.

Workforce dynamics introduce additional risks, especially when relying on contractors during maintenance phases. The CoW solution supports safety and environmental management, tackling complexities arising from contractors’ limited familiarity with company policies.

Statistics from the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention highlight contractors’ increased risk, emphasising the need for a digital CoW solution.

Digital transformation from paper-based permit systems to Sphera’s Progressive Web Application (PWA) ensures flexibility in challenging environments.

The PWA, with online/offline mobile functionality, facilitates geotagged and time-stamped permits even in areas with limited connectivity. Once online, critical information is seamlessly uploaded, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.

CoW for Mining enhances visibility by combining information from permits, isolations, hazards, maintenance shifts, and simultaneous operations (SIMOPS). Digital sharing of permits across locations, supported by GPS tracking, guarantees that the right work is conducted at the appropriate place.

Real-time management of activities and strict adherence to safety measures contribute to the platform’s efficacy in boosting safety and efficiency.

Mining operators face the challenge of meeting stakeholder expectations around compliance, safety, and environmental responsibility. Sphera’s CoW for Mining supports compliance efforts through integrated digital permits, isolations/LOTO, and task risk assessments.

It provides evidence of standardised policies, ensuring consistent operational practices, and offers a full audit trail of digital documentation for regulatory requirements.

Sphera’s powerful mobile solution with online and offline capabilities delivers the most effective and efficient tool on the market to enable safe, productive and compliant mining operations, as it addresses the specific needs and risks inherent in the mining industry.

To learn more about Sphera’s CoW for Mining, please download the brochure.

To learn more about what Sphera can do to help you achieve your operational goals, click here.