Orapa, Letlhakane, and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM) introduced the Personnel Proximity Detection System (PPDS) this week as part of Debswana’s ongoing efforts to enhance diamond mining safety.
The PPDS aims to bolster personnel detection in high-risk conditions and environments, preventing unwanted interactions with earthmoving and other mobile equipment. Additionally, it’s designed to restrict unauthorised personnel from entering high-risk areas intentionally or unintentionally. The system empowers operators and personnel to respond effectively to imminent dangers, complementing existing safety measures.
“Ensuring safety in our mining operations is paramount,” says OLDM General Manager, Mogakolodi Maoketsa, during the official launch of PPDS. “We acknowledge the risks inherent in our industry and continuously strive to mitigate them.”
The implementation of PPDS signifies a significant advancement in Debswana’s commitment to safety excellence, aligning with the company’s 2024 ODOT (One Dream, One Team) Strategy, according to Maoketsa.
Mooketsi Puso, Debswana Senior PMO Manager, highlights that the PPDS project was initiated in response to incidents involving personnel, Earth Moving Vehicles (EMVs), and Light Vehicles (LDVs) within the mining industry. “It addresses the risk of safety-related incidents between earthmoving equipment and light vehicles, ensuring accountability for personnel within the mine lease areas,” he explains.
This initiative is one of many safety measures implemented by Debswana to promote and maintain safe working and living conditions for workers, business partners, and visitors. Other safety-driven systems include collision avoidance, fatigue monitoring, and autonomous drilling systems.
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For more information, please contact:
Matshediso Kamona
Senior Corporate Affairs Manager – Brand and Stakeholder Relations
Debswana Diamond Company
Mobile: +267 – 71330897
About Debswana
Debswana Diamond Company was established in 1969, and it is owned in equal shares by the Government of the Republic of Botswana and De Beers Group. It is one of the world’s leading diamond producers by value and volume. Debswana operates four diamond mines in Orapa, Letlhakane, Damtshaa and Jwaneng. The company is a major contributor to the national economy of Botswana – contributing significantly to the gross domestic product, foreign exchange earnings and government revenues. Debswana is one of the largest private sector employers, with over 5500 employees and over 6000 contractors. Debswana is also the largest contributor to the De Beers Group rough diamond production. The company is committed to mining safely, optimally and responsibly, as well as making a meaningful contribution to the development of communities around its mines and the nation at large, thus making life brilliant. For further information visit www.debswana.com.
