Innovation is Key at Maptek Users Conference

During the 2012 Maptek North American Users Conference in Denver, USA, Colonel Mike Mullane explained how each individual has a unique perspective to contribute to the overall safety of their work environment. Mullane, a retired astronaut, recounted his own near-death experience in a fighter jet, which arose when he failed to speak up about an unsafe situation.

When safety is at risk, everybody counts, regardless of their position or length of service. Only when everyone’s input is available for analysis can a team be truly safe, said Mullane.

Under the banner of 'Welcoming Innovation', Maptek customers and staff shared their experiences in mine planning and design, laser scan survey, drill and blast, and exploration. Less familiar applications, including simulating volcanic eruptions for risk mitigation and modelling structural controls on geothermal resources, were also explored during the three-day event.

Mullane used rarely seen NASA video and slides during his talk and shared stories about how his experience has opened people’s eyes to the criticality of personal and leadership responsibility in hazardous environments.

Maptek recognises the importance of safety in mining operations. Accurate planning allows miners to know what they will encounter when mining, and work more safely on a daily basis. Technology such as vehicle-mounted laser scanners ensures that surveyor safety is not compromised, with the collateral benefit that operations are not delayed.

Conference attendees will go away with a greater awareness of the value of their contribution to innovation in the mining industry.