Hexagon's MineProtect CAS solution, which also includes operator alertness, personal alert and tracking radar systems, has been installed on over 220 vehicles in the Tarkwa fleet.

Staff from Hexagon's Mining division said the deployment was made under difficult circumstances due to the social distancing requirements created by the COVID-19 pandemic, but that the companies were able to overcome the challenges.

"Tarkwa staff's willingness to adapt to the limitations imposed by COVID-19 was hugely important," said Andrew Crose, vice president of Autonomous at Hexagon. "The resourcefulness displayed by everyone involved was impressive. It ensured that we completed the project with minimal delays - almost to the original project dates."

Gold Fields Ghana added that the CAS was one of several work safety systems that have been deployed at the mine.

Executive vice president and head of Gold Fields West Africa, Alfred Baku, said: "This will augment our existing safety management system as it serves as an additional layer of safety intervention to help prevent injuries and fatalities, as well as equipment damage."
 
"We will continue to explore new and innovative ways to improve safety and ensure that our employees return home to their families safely every day," Baku added.