Strata Worldwide’s refuge chambers can be a vital lifeline when crisis hits on a mine site, providing essential protection and shelter.
When emergencies strike or air quality deteriorates underground, workers on mine sites rely on sophisticated safety systems for protection.
Powered by a commitment to better understand the challenges of operating beneath the surface, Strata Worldwide is setting a new standard for underground mine safety with its advanced emergency refuge chamber systems.
“Our solutions are designed to provide immediate refuge and breathable air to workers in the event of an emergency or when underground air quality becomes compromised,” Strata Worldwide chief operating officer Tony Napier told Safe to Work.
“We invest considerable time and resources into fully understanding the underground working environment, and work closely with customers to develop effective solutions to manage problems and limitations.”
All shapes and sizes
Offering a diverse range of refuge chambers, Strata has developed a range of solutions that are suited to specific mining scenarios or operational requirements.
The large-capacity chambers, capable of holding 8–30 people, are designed primarily for static use in hard rock, coal and tunnelling environments where workers may need to shelter for longer periods.
For operations that require flexibility and mobility, compact chambers accommodating 4–6 people are available. These smaller units are built for quick and easy deployment near work areas and can be equipped with wheels, hitch packages, or integrated transport attachments to assist in movement.
Where shaft access or handling restrictions pose challenges, Strata’s segmented chambers are delivered in parts and assembled underground, overcoming countless logistical barriers.
Tunnelling environments benefit from narrower chamber designs that can be mounted directly onto tunnel boring machines and rails, or positioned within active tunnels without hindering operations.
Maintaining a continuous supply of breathable air is key in refuge situations, and Strata’s chambers incorporate advanced systems to guarantee uninterrupted and safe air quality. According to Napier, they connect directly to a mine’s main air lines, allowing an unlimited supply of fresh air filtered through specialised filtration units.
To control carbon dioxide levels, the chambers are equipped with active scrubbers that help remove CO2. Oxygen bottles provide supplemental oxygen regulated to maintain safe concentrations.
For the management of carbon monoxide, small amounts of which are produced by human exhalation, a catalyst converts carbon monoxide into CO2, which is then scrubbed out using soda lime chemicals.
In addition, monitoring systems such as Strata’s HMI and Trolex units enable real-time tracking of air quality, helping to ensure all occupants remain safe and informed.
Powering on
Keeping the power on is another crucial aspect of chamber safety, especially during emergencies that disrupt electrical supply.
Strata chambers are designed to operate indefinitely when connected to the mine’s main power source.
In the event of a power failure, a fully automatic battery back-up system activates seamlessly, providing at least 36 hours of power.
Built from lead acid, fibre mat and crush-proof materials, the battery packs are designed for durability against heat in a mining environment
“The battery system can be located on a pull-out shelf to facilitate easier access for operation and maintenance,” Strata Worldwide Australia product manager refuge chambers Paul Morrish told Safe to Work.
“Batteries are packaged in convenient, portable packs to optimise handling and transportation, and minimise the need for manual handling of individual batteries.”
Ensuring comfort and livability is also essential in the events miners face an extended stay in emergency chambers.
High temperatures in the mine, combined with body heat in confined spaces, can create dangerous conditions over time.
Strata tackles this by installing air conditioning units with dehumidifying capabilities to maintain a safe and tolerable climate inside the chambers.
Thermal insulation applied to walls and ceilings provides further protection for occupants from external radiant heat sources.
To enhance overall comfort and wellbeing, ergonomic seating, privacy screens, toilets and supplies of water and food are standard features, transforming the chamber into a practical shelter rather than just a safe space.
Strata works closely with customers to design solutions that fit their operational demands, remote monitoring capabilities, maintenance requirements, and logistical needs. This is designed to ensure chambers can be installed and configured to maximise safety without interfering with mining activities.
Proven in emergencies
Napier said Strata’s refuge chambers have proven their worth in several real-life situations, including a recent incident where an underground main power cable overheated and caught fire.
All personnel immediately evacuated to the refuge chambers. As the mine’s power had failed, all 30 units were running on back-up batteries throughout the emergency.
“Strata’s refuge chambers performed to the client’s expectations,” Napier said.
Looking to the future, Strata continues to prioritise innovation, with a new economical modular chamber (ERCM) that will consist of attachable modules that can be assembled before or after delivery, allowing operators to customise capacity according to their needs.
The modular design will also help overcome potential handling concerns and shaft size restrictions.
With proven solutions in its portfolio, Strata Worldwide continues to lead the way in emergency management – not only protecting lives but integrating comfort, adaptability, and cutting-edge technology into each product. The company has shown time again that focused innovation and customer collaboration can transform underground safety, ensuring miners can work with confidence.
This feature appeared in the July–August edition of Safe to Work.