Robotics in mining has progressed from research curiosity to operational deployment. While fully autonomous mines remain future vision, robotic systems are already performing specific hazardous tasks that previously required human workers in dangerous locations.

The Safety Imperative

Mining involves tasks that are inherently hazardous. Entering unsupported ground, working near mobile equipment, accessing confined spaces, and operating in toxic atmospheres all create risks that training and procedures can reduce but not eliminate.

The principle of removing people from hazards rather than protecting people in hazards drives robotics adoption. Every task that a robot performs instead of a human represents risk removed entirely, not merely managed.

This imperative is both ethical and economic. Beyond the moral obligation to protect workers, incidents carry costs including workers’ compensation, lost productivity, regulatory consequences, and reputational damage. Robotics can address both dimensions simultaneously.

Inspection Robots

Inspection represents one of the most mature robotic applications in mining.

Confined space inspection robots enter vessels, tanks, and voids that would require extensive safety preparation for human entry. Cameras and sensors collect the same information that human inspectors would gather, without the entry risks.

Underground void mapping uses robots to explore abandoned workings, stopes, and other underground spaces. Understanding void conditions informs planning and risk management without exposing workers.

Pipeline and conduit inspection robots traverse piping systems to assess condition. Internal inspection that would require shutdown and entry happens while systems remain in service.

Structural inspection robots climb and traverse structures to reach locations that would require scaffolding or rope access for humans. Tank interiors, conveyor galleries, and structural steel can be inspected robotically.

The Boston Dynamics Spot robot and similar platforms are now deployed at multiple mining operations for inspection tasks according to industry research from CSIRO. These quadruped robots navigate terrain that wheeled systems cannot handle.

Explosive and Hazardous Material Handling

Working with explosives and hazardous materials creates risks that robotics can reduce.

Explosives loading in underground mining exposes workers to both explosive hazards and ground conditions in active headings. Robotic loading systems remove workers from these high-risk locations.

Misfire investigation following blast failures traditionally required workers to approach potentially unstable explosives. Robotic systems can investigate and resolve misfires remotely.

Sample handling for materials with radiation or chemical hazards can be performed robotically. Laboratory robotics protect workers from exposure during analysis.

Underground Rehabilitation

Following ground falls or other incidents, rehabilitation work in unstable ground creates significant risk.

Scaling robots remove loose rock from underground openings. This task has historically caused numerous injuries and fatalities. Robotic scaling removes workers from the fall zone.

Support installation in unsupported ground exposes workers to fall hazards until support is in place. Robotic systems can install initial support before workers enter.

Rescue and recovery robots can access areas where conditions are too dangerous for rescue teams. Locating victims and assessing conditions robotically informs rescue strategy.

Remote Operation Evolution

Many mining robots are remotely operated rather than fully autonomous. This approach maintains human judgement while removing humans from physical hazards.

Line-of-sight remote operation keeps operators visible distance from equipment. This provides safety benefit while maintaining situational awareness.

Tele-remote operation from control rooms enables operators to be entirely removed from hazardous areas. Video and sensor feeds provide the information operators need.

Supervised autonomy allows robots to perform routine tasks autonomously while operators monitor and intervene when needed. This approach balances efficiency with control.

Technology Advancement

Robotic capabilities continue advancing rapidly.

Mobility improvements enable robots to navigate increasingly challenging terrain. Legged robots, climbing robots, and hybrid designs expand where robots can operate.

Sensor capability provides robots with perception that approaches or exceeds human senses in some dimensions. Thermal imaging, gas detection, and other sensors give robots capabilities humans lack.

AI integration enables robots to respond to variable conditions autonomously. Rather than following rigid programmes, AI-enabled robots adapt to what they encounter.

Connectivity advances support remote operation in underground and remote surface environments. Better communications enable tele-remote operation from greater distances.

Implementation Considerations

Mining operations evaluating robotic applications should consider several factors.

Task analysis identifies which tasks are suitable for robotic performance. Not every hazardous task has a robotic solution available.

Total cost assessment compares robotic approaches against alternatives. Capital costs, operating costs, and productivity must all be considered.

Workforce implications include both training requirements and workforce planning. Robotics changes roles but doesn’t necessarily eliminate positions.

Maintenance capability must support robotic systems. Specialised maintenance skills may be required.

The trajectory is clear: robotics will perform an increasing proportion of mining’s hazardous tasks. Operations that begin building robotic capability now will be better positioned as technology continues advancing.