Understanding Customised Specifications for Mine Spec vehicles

Operating in the mining sector requires adherence to stringent safety standards, in particular when it comes to the specification and modification of site vehicles. At Wanneroo Rental, we get a lot of queries from mining companies regarding our Hilux/ Vigo and Prados. Let us take a look at the needs of the mining industry when it comes to getting the right kind and specifications for vehicles that are involved in mining.

General Mine Spec Vehicle Requirements

Mine spec vehicles are central to maintaining high safety standards on mining sites.

These vehicles are equipped with specific modifications to navigate the rugged terrain and challenging environments typical of mines.

Safety Enhancements

• Rollover Protection Structures (ROPS): Strengthen the vehicle’s frame to protect occupants in the event of a rollover.
• Seat Belts and Safety Harnesses: These are critical for keeping passengers secure, regardless of the terrain.

Visibility and Communication

• Flashing Beacons and High-Visibility Flags: Ensure vehicles are visible in low light and dusty conditions.
• UHF Two-Way Radios: Facilitate reliable communication over long distances, which is crucial in expansive mine sites where signals are weak.

Operational Safety Features

• ABS Brakes: Help maintain control by preventing wheel lock during sudden stops. The Vigos, Hilux and Prados available at Wanneroo Rental are all equipped with these features. 
• Battery Isolators: Critical in managing electrical hazards, ensuring the vehicle can be electrically deactivated, preventing accidental startups or fires.
• Heavy-Duty Tyres and Spill Kits: Tyres are suited for rough terrain and spill kits for immediate response to fluid leaks or spills.

Mine Spec Vehicle Requirements in WA

The general mine spec vehicle requirements in WA are outlined comprehensively in the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995, available HERE.

These regulations mandate several critical safety features such as braking systems, roll over protection, fire suppression systems, and effective lighting and signaling on vehicles to promote a safe mining environment.
At Wanneroo Rental we provide prados and Hilux/ Vigo which are all in huge demand when it comes to the mining industry in Western Australia. 

Braking Systems

• Vehicles must have service, emergency, and parking brakes. At Wanneroo Rental we make sure our vehicles have excellent braking for those outback adventures. 
• Brakes must be tested and maintained in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

Roll Over Protection

• Earth moving machinery must have rolled over protective structures conforming to AS 2294.

Seat Belts

• Vehicles must be fitted with seat belts conforming to AS 2664 or Australian Design Rules. At Wanneroo Rental we take pride in the safety of our vehicles. 

Fire Suppression

• Diesel units rated at 125 kW or more must have an AFFF or FFFP fire suppression system.
• Remote-controlled units must have an automatic fire suppression system that can be activated remotely.

Lighting and Signals

• Vehicles must be equipped with effective headlights, tail lights, turn indicators, and audible warning signals.
• Light service vehicles and personnel transport vehicles must have a flashing light on the cab.

Emergency Stop Devices

• Vehicles must have emergency stop devices that are prominent, clearly marked, and immediately accessible to the operator.

Exhaust and Emissions

Exhaust Treatment

• Diesel units rated at 125 kW or more, or turbocharged, must have exhaust treatment devices.
• Exhaust treatment devices must be maintained and replaced if defective.

Gas Sampling and Emissions

• Undiluted exhaust gas from diesel units must be sampled and analysed regularly.
• Emissions must not exceed specified levels of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.
• Opacity measurements of emissions must be within acceptable limits.

Ventilation

• Minimum ventilation volume rates must be maintained based on engine output.
• Combined ventilation requirements apply when multiple diesel units operate in the same ventilation circuit.

Mine Spec Vehicle Requirements in Queensland

The mine spec vehicle requirements in Queensland are outlined comprehensively in the Mining and Quarrying Safety and Health Regulation 2017, which can be reviewed HERE.

This regulation covers a range of safety features including brakes, roll over protection, fire suppression, and lighting and signals, to ensure vehicles are suitably equipped for mine operations.

Braking Systems

• Vehicles must have service, emergency, and parking brakes.
• Brakes must be tested and maintained in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

Roll Over Protection

• Earth moving machinery must have rolled over protective structures conforming to AS 2294.

Seat Belts

• Vehicles must be fitted with seat belts conforming to AS 2664 or Australian Design Rules.

Fire Suppression

• Diesel units rated at 125 kW or more must have an AFFF or FFFP fire suppression system.
• Remote-controlled units must have an automatic fire suppression system that can be activated remotely.

Lighting and Signals

• Vehicles must be equipped with effective headlights, tail lights, turn indicators, and audible warning signals.
• Light service vehicles and personnel transport vehicles must have a flashing light on the cab.

Exhaust and Emissions

Exhaust Treatment

• Diesel units rated at 125 kW or more, or turbocharged, must have exhaust treatment devices.
• Exhaust treatment devices must be maintained and replaced if defective.

Gas Sampling and Emissions

• Undiluted exhaust gas from diesel units must be sampled and analysed regularly.
• Emissions must not exceed specified levels of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.
• Opacity measurements of emissions must be within acceptable limits.

Ventilation

• Minimum ventilation volume rates must be maintained based on engine output.
• Combined ventilation requirements apply when multiple diesel units operate in the same ventilation circuit.

Conclusion

In this blog, we’ve examined the detailed mine spec vehicle requirements laid out in various parts of Australia. In our great state of Western Australia mining operations are a major contributor to the local and national economy. 

Australians love going into the outback for a bit of off-road fun. This raises the demand for not just mining vehicles but for off road vehicles in general. This has led to a massive demand for Hilux, Vigos, and Prados among others. At Wanneroo Rental, we strongly suggest that all customers should turn to trusted names in the industry in order to make sure that their vehicles are maintained up to standard.