Safety at the highest level
Working in mining means navigating an environment where dangerous scenarios can arise daily. There’s always a risk of collision, whether between vehicles or between a vehicle and a pedestrian. That’s why advanced safety systems are essential for safer workplaces. The Epiroc Titan Collision Avoidance System (CAS) uses several sensing technologies and supports safety from Level 7, where operators and pedestrians are warned, to Level 9, where the system takes control of the vehicle and stops it automatically.
However, before implementing CAS, EMESRT Levels 1 to 6 must be firmly in place.
“A lot needs to happen before we start focusing on collision avoidance, which we see as the last resort in safety. Levels 7, 8, and 9 should only come into play if everything else fails – it shouldn’t be your go-to solution,” says Schalk Janse van Rensburg, General Manager Epiroc Digital Safety Solutions South Africa.
Multi-layered safety system that detects and warns the equipped vehicle’s operators and pedestrians of each other’s presence.
Multi-layered safety system that detects and warns the equipped vehicle’s operators and pedestrians of each other’s presence.
"A lot needs to happen before we start focusing on collision avoidance, which we see as the last resort in safety. Levels 7, 8, and 9 should only come into play if everything else fails – it shouldn’t be your go-to solution"
Change management is key for success
Schalk Janse van Rensburg
CAS can improve efficiency and safety but the key to success is change management. Every site and region has its own workplace culture that must be respected when introducing a new system.
“Everyone, from operator to CEO, needs to understand that the goal is to make sure everyone gets to go home safely every day,” says Janse van Rensburg.
Operators are the ones using the system daily, so their support is crucial.
“Leadership needs to take ownership and walk the talk. If safety is a priority, the foundational levels need to be under control. If CAS is deployed just to tick a box, it will likely fail. Involve staff early so they feel ownership. When they understand the system is there to keep them safe, they are more likely to have a positive approach,” says Janse van Rensburg.
Gradual rollout
He recommends a gradual rollout, to allow time for adjustment and to identify early issues. Once foundational safety levels are in place, working with Levels 7 to 9 becomes a smooth process.
“Level 9 has been legally required in South Africa for two years, and the market has been leading the way. It’s great to see global alignment as clients worldwide seek effective safety solutions,” says Janse van Rensburg.
Five benefits of CAS
A safer day at work
CAS prevents collisions, whether between vehicles or between a vehicle and a person, helping ensure that everyone gets home safely at the end of the day.
Smart tech for every site
With a unique mix of several sensing technologies in one system, CAS can “see” around corners, has faster response times, and has broader coverage.
Smoother flow, less downtime
With real-time awareness of vehicle locations and clear safety protocols, CAS helps everything run more smoothly. Less waiting, more work done.
Insights lead to safer habits
The system collects valuable data you can use to spot risks, improve training, and support safer everyday behaviors.
A safety culture to believe in
By rolling out CAS the right way (involving the whole team from operators to management), the organization builds a shared sense of responsibility.
