The KomVision camera technology can improve safety at Mogalakwena, as it gives truck operators a 360° bird's-eye view and reduces the risks associated with a man-machine interface.

The new system comes with an additional eight radars - over and above the current standard of front and rear radars - and six cameras that provide zero-metre visibility of the truck's footprint.

Mogalakwena mine general manager Richard Cox said: "This technology sets a new benchmark. It improves our ability to integrate into future collision-avoidance systems. In line with our strategy of FutureSmart Mining, it will generate close-to-real-time health and performance data that will support us in optimising our operations."

According to Anglo American Platinum, its safety strategy is based on four pillars: systems, people and behaviour, engineering solutions, and wellness in the workplace. The Komatsu trucks are included in the investments in engineering controls that the company has made to manage risks.

Chris Griffith, CEO of Anglo American Platinum, said: "Investing in this technology is a major step in increasing safety levels at our mines.

"We remain committed to our objective of eliminating fatalities with a zero-harm mindset. We put safety first and believe that every employee has the right to return home unharmed every day. And we recognise that although we have made significant progress in improving safety over the years, there is still much to do.

"This technology will eliminate a number of risks, and we look forward to benefitting from the improved safety and operational features of these trucks."

Production manager Judd Barlow commented: "We are proud to partner with Komatsu as this technology allows us to maximise capacity and safely deliver on our promises."

Cox added: "What excites me most is that these two vehicles offer a fully integrated system that will deliver on our safety requirements, while reducing maintenance and downtime."

The new trucks will be the first earthmoving vehicles at Mogalakwena to fully integrate a range of business improvement initiatives, including collision avoidance-ready technology; a tyre-monitoring system; a safety standard fuel saving card and extended fuel tank; an optimised payload system for payload monitoring; an Ansul foam fire protection system that combines dry powder with foam; and a lightweight bowl.