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The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s (CSIR) Virtual Reality training technology – an innovation designed to enhance the safety of mineworkers through knowledge training on hazardous underground incidents – will take centre stage at Africa’s largest mining conference, the Mining Indaba, which will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 6 to 9 February 2023. 

The Virtual Reality training technology is a tool that uses virtual reality to provide mining trainees with simulated, immersive and experiential training on how to adequately respond to near-real emergency situations, such as underground fires and explosion. 

“At the forefront of our mission is the prioritisation of zero harm technologies. Partnering with the mining industry, we aim to deliver people-centred solutions that prioritise the safety of workers in mining environments,” says Executive Manager for Future Production: Mining, Sibongile Ntsoelengoe. 

Captains of industry and senior government officials attending the Mining Indaba this year can expect to see several bespoke solutions at the CSIR’s exhibition stand, such as the near real-time digital risk prediction tool that prevents the collision of Trackless Mobile Machines. Developed in partnership with the mining industry, this solution harnesses the power of artificial intelligence and data analytics to enhance safety in both underground and open pit mines. 

Additionally, with CSIR being the only approved testing authority mandated by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to monitor the functional performance of self-contained self-rescuers (SCSRs) in South Africa, the organisation’s capability to ensure compliance testing for SRSC equipment in mines, will also be showcased alongside the ground-penetrating radar (GPR). 

According to Ntsoelengoe, the GPR technology forms part of the CSIR’s Integrated Geophysical Toolbox, which enables the near real-time 3D mine planning modelling capability for data analysis and risk mapping, to make decision support for mining operations possible.

“The investment and adoption of fit-for-purpose, modernised solutions have been a priority point in unlocking the potential of the mining sector, particularly in improving safety and productivity. With our locally honed and diverse capabilities at the CSIR, we are more than ready to partner with captains of industry and government officials in providing bespoke solutions that have the potential to revitalise the mining sector,” adds Ntsoelengoe. 

Issued by The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s