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http://www.yellowfinbi.com/YFCommunityNews-Location-Intelligence-for-Mining-and-Exploration-106713


8 ways Location Intelligence can be utilized in mining and exploration

Mineral exploration requires and utilizes a diverse range of data types and techniques, including satellite and geophysical images, geologic maps and a plethora of databases. LI functionality within a BI platform can incorporate and utilize these varying information sources, converting and presenting that information in usable and meaningful forms, capable of providing significant insight and adding considerable business value.

Over its lifecycle, a mining exploration generates a huge amount of spatially significant data. LI, a component of modern BI solutions, (for a definition see our blog Defining Location Intelligence), can assist organizations working in the mining and exploration industry to:

  1. Monitor assets: Mining corporations have a large number of assets and infrastructure dispersed over vast areas. Monitoring the location of equipment in relation to active sites and maintenance facilities will enable organizations to answer critical questions, such as:
    1. Is there sufficient equipment nearby to undertake a specific project (If not, how long will it take to get there, and at what expense)?
    2. Where is the equipment that is scheduled for service – when and how can it be moved/accessed for maintenance to create minimum disruption?
  2. Track sub-surface infrastructure: Monitoring the location and usage of beneath ground equipment ensures efficient, safe and optimal performance.
  3. Monitor, track and assess the availability of staff: Mining companies employee a huge number of staff, many of whom are employed on a shift or block roster basis. Keeping up-to-date with their availability and location, relative to specific project sites, is critical.
  4. Monitor Competitors: Track the location of competitor assets, resources and infrastructure to determine their capacity to compete for contracts and new sites.
  5. Monitor the environmental impacts of exploration and mining activities: Observing environmental standards, practices and legislation is essential and non-negotiable.
  6. Establish the location of hazardous materials: Mitigating risk in this potentially dangerous industry is a top priority.
  7. Monitor work-related incidents and establish appropriate OH & S protocols: Understanding the logistics of operations in relation to the proximity of medical services and staff is necessary to form effective emergency response protocols. Additionally, being able to track the frequency and location of safety incidents can reveal patterns and help uncover unsafe work practices.
  8. Compare pre-approved sites with geographic phenomena, features and obstacles: Compare areas pre-approved for exploration, clearing or mining with topographical maps, comprising such features as contours, roads, and rivers, to determine accessibility and help calculate transport and other logistical expenditures.