NIOSH said EVADE 2.0 can pull together video footage and exposure data on dust, diesel and gases, as well as sound into one display for a more comprehensive view of the hazards miners face. The software synchronises all incoming data files to show changing exposure levels alongside the video.

With the files stitched together into one playback, mine operators can see what was happening during the periods of highest exposure, and then use that information to target a change or intervention. This is crucial, as prolonged or repeated exposures to hazardous substances or sound levels can be detrimental to workers’ health or hearing.

“Without a way to locate exactly when and where workers might be exposed to hazards, mine operators could only make an educated guess about the location and time of exposure,” said Dr Jessica Kogel, associate director for mining at NIOSH. “This latest version of EVADE gives operators a valuable tool to improve the working environment for their miners.”

The original version of EVADE was designed to overlay data from respirable dust samplers with video from a single, helmet-mounted camera, called Helmet-CAM. While EVADE 2.0 can still use a Helmet-CAM setup, it now also processes data from almost any type of hazard sampler, including a noise dosimeter. It can also synchronise and display video from any mix of video cameras, both worn and set up at fixed locations.

While developed for the mine environment, EVADE can also be used to assess hazards in other industries such as construction and oil and gas.

Download the software here