Fresh Thinking: The 3-Minute Read. Episode 102

Busy day? Short on time?
Here’s your 3-minute quick read version of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro’s podcast Episode 102.
We’ve pulled out the key insights and takeaways—perfect for when you want the value, minus the headphones.

Battery Electric Vehicles: A Safer Future for Underground Mining

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Managing Consultant Hamish Guthrie spoke with Sarah de Vries, Principal Consultant in our mining team, about how battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are transforming underground mining—particularly from an occupational health and safety (OHS) perspective.

With over 15 years’ experience in both open pit and underground operations—and a strong focus on mine electrification—Sarah outlined the significant improvements BEVs can bring to underground working conditions.

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Why Go Electric Underground?

Traditionally, underground mines rely heavily on diesel-powered equipment, which comes with clear downsides: harmful emissions, intense heat, noise, and vibration. These factors contribute to worker fatigue and long-term health risks, including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease, and hearing loss.

BEVs remove diesel from the equation, improving underground conditions in a number of key ways:

• Cleaner air: Eliminating diesel particulate matter reduces health risks and can significantly reduce ventilation and cooling costs.
• Lower heat: Diesel engines are inefficient and generate a lot of heat. BEVs generate far less, reducing cooling requirements and risk of heat stress.
• Quieter operations: Lower noise levels mean less hearing damage and better communication between teams.
• Reduced vibration: Less whole-body vibration improves comfort and reduces musculoskeletal strain.

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Implementation Challenges

Transitioning to BEVs isn’t without its hurdles. Mines need to invest in:

• Charging infrastructure
• Upgraded power distribution networks
• Training for new maintenance and safety protocols

There’s also the challenge of range limitations, especially for larger haul trucks on long declines. But with battery technology advancing quickly, many of these concerns are becoming easier to manage.

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The Road Ahead

Sarah believes that fully electrified underground mines are on the horizon. As battery costs drop and energy efficiency improves, BEVs are becoming both technically and economically viable.

With added benefits like integration with renewable energy and real-time performance monitoring, BEVs offer a win-win for worker health and sustainability goals.

If you would like to contact Sarah de Vries about Battery Electric Vehicles: contact@snowdenoptiro.com

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Want to Listen to or Watch the Full Episode

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