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Wabtec technology extends awareness for safer mines

June 23, 2025

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One of the most important hallmarks of a successful mine, according to recent studies, is a tireless quest to reduce harm incidents to zero. Collision awareness systems (CAS) that leverage the latest proximity detection systems (PDS) technology are becoming an essential tool as mines advance towards this goal. Providing and supporting such systems has been central to SMS Equipment’s mission to deliver industry-leading technology solutions. For this Tech Spotlight, we’ve compiled insights from the SMS Equipment technology team on how Wabtec’s Generation 3 CAS technology is helping mines to significantly enhance safety and productivity in mining operations by preventing collisions between vehicles, thereby contributing to "zero harm" objectives.

The role of technology in mine safety has a long history. In 2006, it became a global initiative with the establishment of the Earth Moving Equipment Safety Round Table (EMESRT), a collaborative effort including mining companies, equipment manufacturers, and technology providers. In 2013, EMESRT established a 9-level model based on 9 levels of control, the model defines multiple levels of incident control. Levels 7, 8, and 9 are particularly relevant to Collision Awareness Systems (CAS) and intervention controls. The model has become the de facto standard for vehicle interaction controls (levels 7, 8) and incorporating Proximity Detection Systems (PDS) into equipment control systems (level 9).

One of the keys is ensuring that safety systems are mine duty, that is, suitable for reliable and continuous operation in the toughest mining environments. Additionally, these systems must be intuitive and non-distracting to operators.

A focus on attention issues

The most advanced CAS systems can only be effective if operators pay attention to them. A few years ago, the biggest challenge for these systems was that operators were exposed to too many false alarms, which caused attention issues. Research shows that even if there is only one false notification, the user will automatically pay less attention to subsequent ones. The Gen 3 CAS uses advanced intelligence and a user-friendly interface with context-based voice alerts to only alarm when a high-risk incident is likely. This reduces operator distraction and improves overall acceptance of the system.

You also never want your safety system to be a distraction, particularly when the operator is moving a vehicle that can weigh in excess of 600 metric tons at 50 or 60 km/hour. What is needed, therefore, is a very simple and intuitive human machine interface (HMI) that makes minimal demands on the operator’s attention while ensuring that all vital alerts are not missed. The touchscreen HMI provides a visual representation of remote objects, showing the vehicle ID, range, speed, and heading.

One of the keys to reducing incidents is a constant awareness of hazardous conditions. In the cab, the Gen 3 screen gives operators 360-degree situational awareness and helps them understand the relative positions of other vehicles - extending the operator’s vision and awareness. Additionally, Wabtec’s curved beam technology generates dynamic detection zones that follow a vehicle's anticipated steering path, rather than a static, straight-line projection. This significantly reduces nuisance alarms during maneuvers like cornering or passing.

The Wabtec solution also includes CASWeb, a reporting and analytics platform for consolidating and visualizing data along with geofence management. While the in-vehicle CAS provides real-time collision prevention, CASWeb allows mining operations to monitor, analyze, and manage safety data from their entire fleet. Geofences can be used for scenario management, controlling access to certain areas, or triggering alerts if vehicles enter prohibited zones The core function of CASWeb is to transform raw data from the CAS units into actionable insights.

CASWeb also provides insights into operator behavior, identifying patterns that might lead to unsafe practices. For example, it can highlight instances of speeding, aggressive driving, or consistent deviations from designated routes. This enables mines to provide specific feedback and training to operators, fostering a stronger safety culture. In the event of a near-miss or an actual incident, CASWeb also allows for historical journey replays, providing a detailed understanding of what occurred. This is invaluable for root cause analysis and preventing similar incidents in the future.

Staying ahead of the curve

The Wabtec CAS Generation 3 system also offers strategic advantages that extend beyond safety. The system incorporates real-time self-test capabilities for continuous system health monitoring. This feature automatically checks the functionality of critical system components, providing immediate alerts to operators and logging data in CASWeb if any issues arise. This ensures the system is always performing optimally and allows for proactive maintenance, preventing potential safety compromises due to system malfunctions. This means that not only are equipment issues flagged earlier, but the mechanism is also in place to notify the right people immediately when a piece of equipment needs repair.

A collaborative partnership

At SMS Equipment, safety is an integral part of the collaborative partnerships we build with our customers. This means that safety is always at the forefront when we consult with our customers to determine the best technologies for their mines, assist with project planning and installation, and provide technical support, training, and ongoing maintenance. Our goal is to ensure that these systems deliver that the designed benefit to operators and the organization.

SMS Equipment proudly works with innovative industry leaders like Wabtec as a distributor of their Gen 3 CAS solution, ensuring we provide our customers with cutting-edge technology and the highest standards in safety and productivity. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to delivering the most advanced and reliable solutions available in the market to mines across Canada through more than 40 support locations.

Safety as a driver of long-term success

Safety is an issue that can never be compromised. Furthermore, by implementing safety systems like CAS, mining companies demonstrate a strong commitment to keeping their people safe. This proactive approach to safety not only enhances trust and job satisfaction but also serves as a powerful differentiator for attracting and retaining skilled talent.

SMS Equipment has a long history of growing alongside our customers, and we are committed to their long-term success. Safety is inseparable from this objective, and we consider it our duty to support our customers fully in their journey to zero incidents. A key part of this is helping them take full advantage of the latest technology to ensure that all their personnel return home safely at the end of the day.