Safety Assessment for the Implementation of Autonomous Haulage Systems in an Open-Pit Mine

Abstract

The implementation of autonomous haulage systems in open-pit mines is a progressive step in the industry, but it brings potential safety risks that need careful evaluation. This study developed a discrete event simulation model to analyze and evaluate these risks in different operating scenarios -fully autonomous, hybrid (a mix of autonomous and human-operated vehicles), and non-autonomous operations.The simulation model was developed using the HAULSIM and Anylogic software, integrated mine layout, haulage operations, and various fleet compositions. It provided insights into collision risks, a significant concern in mining safety literature. Results showed that collisions were inversely proportional to the number of autonomous vehicles in operation, indicating the potential safety advantages of fully autonomous operations. However, certain high-traffic intersections were identified as high-risk areas, emphasizing the need for targeted risk mitigation strategies. Further, a profile risk matrix was developed to provide a comprehensive view of collision severity and likelihood in each scenario. This highlighted the impact of collisions on both human safety and project operations. Based on the results, risk mitigation strategies were proposed, with a focus on redesigning intersections, implementing strict rules for human-operated trucks in autonomous zones, and improving autonomous vehicle capabilities. The study, while insightful, was limited by assumptions and the generic nature of operational data used in the simulation. Therefore, future research should seek to incorporate more detailed, mine-specific data and empirical insights from projects that have implemented autonomous haulage systems. Continuous advancements in autonomous technology and simulation modeling will be key to ensuring a safe and productive mining environment.