New DISPATCH Plug-in helps manage operator fatigue

Modular Mining Systems, Inc., the market leader in real-time operations management solutions for mines worldwide, announces the release of the FatigueAlert™ module: a predictive fatigue risk model for haul truck operators, which is based on real-time vehicle dynamics. The new module is the result of an alliance with Fatigue Management International (FMI) formed in January 2011, and it is part of the DISPATCH® Fleet Management System.

Operator fatigue is a serious problem in the mining industry—implicated in up to 65% of all haulage truck accidents—and its effective management requires a holistic approach, including operator awareness training, management training, ongoing monitoring, and real-time intervention when necessary. To quote Michael Lewis, Modular VP of Sales and Marketing, “Modular is committed to the continuous improvement of safety in the mining industry. Our alliance with FMI allows us to incorporate fatigue management into our portfolio of safety solutions.  By integrating their technology into the DISPATCH system, we can now proactively manage operator fitness for work throughout the shift.  This means that work assignments, breaks, fueling, and other events can be managed in real-time, keeping drivers continuously alert and engaged.  Potentially risky drivers can be identified and removed from equipment before fatigue severely affects their ability to operate safely.”

The FatigueAlert module integrates seamlessly with FMI’s fatigue-monitoring device, ASTiD™ (Advisory System for Tired Drivers). Unlike other fatigue-monitoring systems, ASTiD technology does not rely on camera-based analysis of facial features, nor does it involve sensors on the body—with all the accompanying barriers to operator acceptance. Instead, it measures the steering dynamics of the haul truck and uses sophisticated signal processing and modeling to determine the risk of fatigue-related impairment in real time. At any time during the shift, supervisors, managers, and operators themselves have access to the current risk of fatigue. Furthermore, with the professional consulting and training services provided by FMI and Modular, mine personnel are given the appropriate tools to take action when necessary.

Modular is the exclusive reseller of ASTiD technology and associated FMI services to the mining industry. The FatigueAlert module is available to new and existing Modular customers as a turnkey solution requiring minor hardware and software installation, and it receives the same unparalleled Modular global service and support.

About Modular Mining Systems, Inc.

Modular is the market leader in providing powerful information management solutions to meet the needs of both open-pit and underground mining operations worldwide.  Modular sales and support offices are located in all key world mining markets.  For more information please visit the Modular website at http://www.modularmining.com.