Flameproof lighting supplier Azolite, now a division of
industrial plugs manufacturer Powermite, has manufactured a new
flameproof light-emitting diode (LED) light for use in
underground mining to improve safety and efficiency. Previously,
fluorescent lights were most commonly used in mining operations
for work area and road/walkway illumination. “Fluorescents are
extremely sensitive glass tubes. The necessary care not to break
the tubes during transport and installation is a huge challenge
in arduous mining conditions. In addition, the environmental
impact associated in the disposal of fluorescent products
necessitates disciplined practices and procedures to be
followed,” says Azolite MD Donovan Marks. Maintenance
activities, which may involve climbing ladders and working in
awkward positions, require mineworkers to walk in areas where
light maintenance is needed, as they can be at risk of slipping,
tripping or being exposed to broken glass if a light has been
damaged. “When designing the LED light, we focus