Improved Blasting System Streamlines Operations and Enhances Safety at Our Mine

Prior to the implementation of the ORBS system, underground blasting at our mine involved completing firing at multiple designated points, necessitating our charge crew to traverse the mine to initiate each blast.

To address these challenges, we sought a more efficient and safer solution. Enter ORBS (Orica Remote Blasting System), a blasting system designed by Orica for centralised firing. We proudly became the first mine to adopt Orica’s centralised firing system and have been collaborating with them to further enhance this cutting-edge software for implementation in other mines.

After weeks of rigorous testing and setting up new firing lines to accommodate the changes, we achieved a significant milestone on the 11th of April – completing our first centralised firing from the surface. With ORBS in place, all firings for the shift can now be initiated from the surface simultaneously, eliminating the need for running around underground to set off each location. Most importantly, this approach ensures that personnel are not underground during firing, thereby minimizing potential risks.

We take great pride in implementing innovative solutions like the ORBS system, as they not only optimise our operations but also prioritise the safety and well-being of our personnel. As we continue to refine and improve this state-of-the-art blasting system in collaboration with Orica, we are excited about the positive impact it will have not only on our mine but also on the mining industry as a whole.