Identifying Risks Associated With Human-System Interactions in Remote-Controlled and Autonomous Mining Operations

Abstract

The objective of the project was to answer the question: What risk assessment techniques deliver the most effective and user accepted means of identifying risks associated with human-system interactions in remote-controlled and autonomous mining operations  Four hazard identification methods were assessed across three case studies – human-autonomous surface haulage interactions, autonomous longwall mining and remote control of processing plants: 1. Preliminary Hazard Analysis (PHA/HAZID) (Traditional Method) 2. Failure Mode and Effects Criticality Analysis (FMECA) (Traditional Method) 3. System Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) (Systems-theory Method) 4. Strategies Analysis for Enhancing Resilience (SAfER) (Systems-theory Method) The methods included a literature review, an analysis of the outcomes of workshops with industry participants, and a survey of participants’ feedback.