ABSTRACT
Using examples from mining and the wider minerals industry, this chapter focuses on operator acceptance of new technology for industrial mobile equipment. It briefly describes the key elements in the mining system. The chapter examines the development and deployment of new mining technologies, including the need for them and the types typically being introduced at mine sites. It presents a case study of recently undertaken research that considers operator acceptance of proximity warning systems for mining vehicles. The 'minerals industry' is an overall term for a group of activities related to mining, ore/minerals processing and the transportation of minerals. 'Safe design' is slowly becoming more widespread in the minerals industry. Intensive research and development work in automation and new mining technologies is currently being undertaken by many major mining companies, equipment manufacturers and universities. The chapter concludes by stressing the importance of a user-centred design and deployment process for technology used in mining and elsewhere.
