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RFID improves mine safety

By Pink Matter
Pretoria, 30 Apr 2008

Tronimex Data Technologies, along with Pinkmatter Solutions, has developed an active RFID-based system for control of fixed and mobile assets.

The so-called Wireless Event Management System (WEMS) can be used, among other applications, for the access control of operators to mining and manufacturing equipment.

WEMS is currently being implemented at the Sishen Iron Ore mine in the Northern Cape. "A system was required that would enable the mine to operate in accordance with the required safety acts pertaining to moving machinery. With WEMS, each operator wears an active RFID personnel tag. Every time an operator starts a mine vehicle, the system checks that the operator has the required qualifications and up-to-date licences to operate the equipment," says Jens Rothauge, sales manager at Tronimex.

The WEMS RFID system is a product developed by Tronimex Data Technologies. The system allows for quick and easy programming of hardware and allows the user to monitor operator activities and equipment locations.

The software components were developed in co-operation with Pinkmatter Solutions and can be integrated with a client's existing ERP system to automatically import operator details and qualifications. The software presents an organisation with an up to date view of all its production vehicles, fixed assets and operators.

"The hardware and communication components are very robust as they were specifically designed to operate in harsh environments. This makes WEMS especially well-suited for the mining and manufacturing industries," says Rothauge.

"The system has a wide variety of applications. It can be used to track products during the manufacturing process, enforce operator equipment licences and manage site access control."

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