Automation of Hazardous Jobs

Writing for Engineering

­­­Professor Brown

April 9, 2024

Summary:

         In the mining zone, workers are regularly exposed to many hazards that put their health and even lives at risk. The heavy working conditions consist of poor air quality along with dust and chemicals that negatively affected miners’ health, lack of structural integrity which can lead to structure failure, and the risk of fires and explosions. These working conditions can have serious long-term effects on workers by damaging their health, physical bodies and even leading to fatal accidents. One of them being the accident in Raleigh, West Virginia, where we plan on proposing these improvements to Massey Energy which runs the mine. These events make mining zones very dangerous and harm the company. By implementing automation in mining zones, there will be an increase in worker safety, efficiency in work production, and overall long-term benefits for the company. Our team of engineers from the company “Advanced Automation Technologies” have an ample amount of experience with working with technology implementation, data analyzation, as well as automation machinery and will be working on accomplishing these changes to these hazardous mines. Major aspects of the project and budget includes acquiring and installing the technological infrastructure ($4 million), education and training through programs regarding the use of the automation ($1.5 million), gaining expertise through research and collaboration with experts ($2 million), regulatory compliance with the law ($2 million), and continuous evaluation and improvement ($1 million). The project will have an approximate cost of $10 million. By accomplishing the project there will be a significant decrease in workers exposed to hazardous conditions and more efficient and accurate task completion.

Introduction:

       Many job fields have implemented technology into their field in hopes of improving the problems within as well as safety reasons. One of the hazardous and oldest job fields, mining, has still not turned to technology to replace some of the dangerous aspects of mining even though it should have. Mining has been proven to be dangerous, with many miners obtaining injuries, explosions and cave-ins happening which is when the mine collapses, toxic air throughout the mine, and awful temperatures. In 2010, “A collapse of the main ramp into the San Jose mine leaves 33 miners trapped 2,300 feet underground. Emergency officials are unable to communicate with the trapped miners” (CNN). Miners don’t have anything to help them with the toxic air or the awful temperatures underground even with how advanced we are as a society specifically in technology, “The Diesel Exhaust in Miners Study encompassed more than 12,000 miners. Results showed a significant increased risk of dying from lung cancer among miners who had ever worked underground. This risk increased as the miners’ exposure to respirable elemental carbon – representing diesel exhaust – increased” (CDC). With a goal in mind to fixing the mining field safety for workers, our purpose is implementing modern tech into the mining workspace which would not only benefit miners’ safety but also benefit the mining industry itself. The cost of building our idea would be around $10+ million, having ideas in building the actual technology infrastructure, giving training to the miners, etc. Massey Energy specifically has a notorious record of safety violations and mining accidents. “On April 5, 2010, a tragic explosion at Massey Energy’s Upper Big Branch (“UBB”) mine in Raleigh County, West Virginia, killed 29 mine workers in the worst coal mine disaster in over 40 years.” (Robbins). A $265 million dollar settlement was reached, however this company has amassed hundreds of violations at several of their mines, not even in Raleigh. 29 out of 31 miners died at the site, which means the casualty percent was 93.5%. If our proposed safety initiatives were to be implemented, these people may have never died. The mine exploded due to numerous safety violations, one of which being poor ventilation. Our planned technology infrastructure would help replace the dangerous aspects of the job of a miner like drilling, using explosives for blasting away minerals/rocks. Training would help the miners to learn how to use the automated tools safely. We want to be able to accomplish the one true goal of improving the mining workplace safety using technology. However, alongside this main goal also comes into play with improving the whole industry as the more automation goes into mining, the more we learn about mining and enhancing it. Automation is essential to the solution, which is the use of automatic equipment and technology to perform tasks. In this proposal we will discuss the main elements of the plan including the issue, its effects, and a feasible solution. We will describe the hazards that mines pose to miners through environmental working conditions and other physical risks. In addition, we will describe the need for a solution in response to the health concerns and for the safety of the workers. We will explain the various aspects of the solution to use automation technologies by discussing the plan, methods for its implementation, anticipated results and limitations. The description will be followed by an overview and breakdown of the $10 million budget. Overall, our goal is aimed at increasing the safety of miners by implementing automation which would decrease the hazards workers would encounter.

Project Description:

     Improving workplace safety through the automation of hazardous jobs in the mine is indeed feasible and the upgrades are increasingly being pursued by many mining companies worldwide. Automation offers significant potential to the exposure of workers to dangerous conditions, thereby enhancing safety outcomes. To confirm its feasibility, thorough studies will be conducted, encompassing technological readiness, cost analysis, and regulatory compliance. Massey Energy could have saved millions of dollars  in lawsuit settlements if they had been properly following regulatory compliance and had implemented the automation and safety provisions.

     There are many benefits for implanting automation of mining jobs. Mining is considered one of the world’s most dangerous jobs, so automation would include an increase in safety of workers by removing them from life threatening environments. With an increase in the use of automation such as machines, robots, or drones in mining zones, fewer workers would be “exposed to the potential hazards found in a mine” (Ltd). Less workers would be exposed to “poor air quality, confined spaces and lack of structural integrity” (Ltd). Besides the increase in safety, the speed, efficiency, and accuracy at which the tasks get done increases. By automating the production, the work process becomes more efficient and automated machines would contribute to improved workflow and control (Antaira). Although the initial investment may be substantial, the long-term cost savings in terms of worker reduced insurance premiums, compensation claims, and legal fees associated with accidents can be significant. On the other hand, the consequences of not implementing automation in hazardous mining zones are distressing. Without automation, more workers remain at risk of health hazards being exposed to dangerous conditions leading to injuries and fatalities. Moreover, the financial burden of accidents through medical expenses, compensation claims, and legal fees, along with major fines, lawsuits due to non-compliance with safety regulations and damage to the company’s reputation can be crippling for mining companies. Additionally, accidents disrupt operations, causing delays that impact productivity. “During 2005–06, days lost through occupational injuries on mines in Western Australia totaled 20,849, while in that period there were 462 LTIs. In addition to the initial injuries, there were 38 recurrences of previous injuries, resulting in 1,044 workdays lost” (Karwah).

        To accomplish this idea, we need to be able to deploy advanced technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and sensor systems tailored to the specific needs of mining operations. To achieve this, a robust technology infrastructure is essential, including autonomous vehicles, drones, and robotic systems capable of operating in challenging mining environments. Alongside technological investments, comprehensive training programs for personnel are crucial to ensure safe and efficient operation and maintenance of automated equipment. To incentivize workers to engage in the training programs, we’ll offer completion bonuses. Furthermore, any accommodation necessary for completing the training course will be fully covered by the company. To develop a comprehensive training program, we’ll engage experts in the AI field who possess an understanding of the technologies we intend to use. Collaborating with them, we’ll craft a 9-week course to provide a fundamental understanding of the technologies, followed by an additional 3-week hands-on course to acquaint participants with the new machines. This approach ensures that they acquire practical knowledge they can apply in the field. The mining industry is going to require automation as there is a skilled labor shortage (Mainland Machinery). Thus, to remain competitive whether the industry wants to or not, significant portions of labor must be automated. From a logistical standpoint, material transportation is arguably one of the most critical points in mining infrastructure. Typically, material is moved from the pit to be unloaded at a processing center in a large haul truck operated by humans. However human intervention may be a limiting factor, as not only are there labor shortages for haulers, but autonomously guided trucks can also be more efficient than human operated trucks. If incorporated, the autonomous truck can operate 24/7 (unlike a human), optimally select routes to minimize fuel consumption and reach the desired destination faster, it can even reduce the risks of accidents.

         The mining industry is also notorious for its polluting effects like air and water contamination and the health effects of the local populace hosting the mine. Massey Energy has also been involved in many environmental protection violations, numbering in the thousands. Many of these adverse effects may be mitigated with proper implementation of AI, to minimize or even eliminate negative environmental consequences. This can be done through optimizing automation to reduce unnecessary emissions and biproducts generated from mining operations. Being significantly deep underground, and in a confined space is a recipe for disaster. Thus, robots being deployed for exploration can prevent many mining accidents from ever occurring. Robots can efficiently map, and if equipped with the right sensors and cameras, they can analyze ground samples to determine whether a mine being established in the location is worth it or not. Such locations include but are not limited to deep seabeds, polar regions, and deep underground tunnels. And again, due to the labor shortages, these robots will become more of a necessity rather than an option. These robots will not only reduce exploration costs, but also reduce the environmental impact of mining as they can locate deposits, without the need for excessive drilling and blasting. As for drilling, robots can be used to drill holes to eventually blast and open an excavation site. If equipped with autonomous drilling, these robots will be able to efficiently use these tools as they can navigate, and report metrics with ease. These robots can also work in places that maybe be too dangerous for a human to operate in, thus the robot can work more effectively in these dangerous conditions, as it’s always better to have destroyed metal over a possible casualty.

         While automation of hazardous jobs in the mining field offers substantial benefits, there are many concerns and obstacles that we must also consider. One significant concern is the social contract between the mine and the community hosting the mine. Mines aren’t always offshore, or in remote locations, a lot of the time the population has to bear the brunt of the possible adverse health effects. Our proposal will aim to reduce as many of these effects as possible, however even with the best preventatives it could always be possible for ailments to spread. The local population’s health may be adversely affected by the mine however, it brings large economic benefits and well-paying jobs. To preserve the town’s wealth and health, automated machinery will be implemented to the degree of greatly improving safety standards, while preventing layoffs and even adding more jobs in the form of maintenance and control teams for the machinery. Another important obstacle is obtaining the necessary investments to ensure this project can succeed. The initial investments will involve substantial expenditure for acquiring advanced robots, artificial intelligence systems, and sensor technologies. To acquire initial investments, we will pitch our proposal to the government and private investors. By aligning our objectives with government priorities and emphasizing the socio-economic benefits, such as job growth, we plan on securing funding from government funding programs, grants, and incentives. At the same time, we will also be looking for private investors and venture capitalists who recognize the potential of our proposal and are eager to capitalize on this opportunity for high returns. By leveraging AI-powered predictive analytics, autonomous vehicles, and other innovative solutions, mining companies can optimize production processes, reduce downtime, and enhance resource utilization, ultimately leading to increased profitability over time. Also, AI technology will improve safety protocols and reduce operational risks, thus reducing potential liability and increasing profit.

Budget:

                The cost of implementing automation in Raleigh would in total cost a rough estimate of around $10 million. Our technology infrastructure, which includes the installation and setup of the actual infrastructure, which includes machinery, would cost around $4 million. For the miners to be able to use these automated technologies, they would need funded training and education to help the miners get an understanding of what they are working with. This would cost around $1.5 million. To ensure the safety of these miners when using automated technologies there are specific regulations. Any of our safety regulations, technology implementation, and collaboration with experts in mining automation specifically would cost around $1.5 million while any research expenses will cost $500,000. Compliance with the safety standards and regulations of mines will cost around $1 million alongside any collaboration with industry associations costing around $500,000. While these protocols, infrastructures, and automation will be installed and used by miners, to take it a step further, continuous evaluation and improvement will be conducted. This would cost around $1 million which helps cover the cost of the monitoring of the technology, data analysis, and feedback from any personnel on site to help improve the overall performance of the automation. 

Total Project Cost Estimate: $10 million

Breakdown of Costs:

Technology Infrastructure: $4 million

• Acquisition of automation technologies: $3 million
• Installation and setup of infrastructure: $1 million

Training and Education: $1.5 million

• Development and implementation of training programs for personnel: $1 million
• Educational initiatives to address resistance to change and foster adoption: $500,000

Expertise and Collaboration: $2 million

• Collaboration with experts in mining automation, safety regulations, and technology implementation: $1.5 million
• Research and development expenses: $500,000

Regulatory Compliance: $1.5 million

• Compliance with safety standards and regulations: $1 million
• Collaboration with regulatory agencies and industry associations: $500,000

Continuous Evaluation and Improvement: $1 million

• Monitoring, data analysis, and feedback mechanisms: $750,000
• Iterative improvements and optimization: $250,000

Conclusion:

      With how advanced other fields of work are in technology and improving their workplace safety, it’s only right that mining, one of the oldest jobs, gets that same treatment. From the beginning of mining to this day, miners still deal with the toxic environment that is cave-ins, explosions, toxic air that can ruin respiratory systems, horrendous temperatures when digging deeper and deeper. All these problems could have been fixed a while ago as now we have advanced respiratory devices to help people breathe, different technologies like automated diggers which would help miners reduce injuries. Even when these safety features are implemented, if they aren’t properly audited and maintained, accidents are still highly likely as what happened in Raleigh County. However, nothing has been done for them and it is time that society looks to helping the mining field. With our proposal and ideas, there could be something done for these miners and help their safety while they are working.

References:

Abenov, Timur, et al. “Has Mining Lost Its Luster? Why Talent Is Moving Elsewhere and How to Bring Them Back.” McKinsey & Company, 14 Feb. 2023, www.mckinsey.com/industries/metals-and-mining/our-insights/has-mining-lost-its-luster-why-talent-is-moving-elsewhere-and-how-to-bring-them-back.

“CDC – Mining Topic – Respiratory Diseases – NIOSH.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 11 Aug. 2022, www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/topics/respiratorydiseases.html#:~:text=Over%20the%20last%20four%20decades,%E2%80%93%20representing%20diesel%20exhaust%20%E2%80%93%20increased.

CNN Editorial Research. “2010 Chilean Mine Rescue Fast Facts.” CNN.com, CNN, edition.cnn.com/2013/07/13/world/americas/chilean-mine-rescue/index.html.

Karwah, Melvin Nyonneoh. “Impact of Mine Accidents on Production Outcome and the Need to Prioritize Safety | Uniathena.” Uniathena, uniathena.com/impact-of-mine-accidents-on-production-outcome-and-the-need-to-prioritize-safety#:~:text=Accidents%20in%20mines%20can%20pause,output%20of%20the%20mining%20operation.

Ltd, Mainland Machinery. “Mining Archives – Mainland Machinery.” Mainland Machinery, 9 June 2017, mainlandmachinery.com/category/mining.

‘Robbins’- Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP, “$265 Million Settlement Obtained in Massey Energy,”  Robbins Geller Rudman &Amp; Dowd LLP.

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/news-item-Massey-Energy-Settlement-060414.html

Understanding Automated Mining Equipment | Blog | Antaira. www.antaira.com/Understanding-How-Automated-Mining-Equipment Works#:~:text=How%20Autonomous%20Mining%20Equipment%20Works,%2C%20GPS%2C%20and%20internet%20connectivity.

“We Need to Talk About Mining: Death, Dangers and Prevention | Chart Industries.” Chart Industries, Inc., www.chartindustries.com/Articles/We-Need-To-Talk-About-Mining-Death,-Dangers-Preven.