Case study

Driver satisfaction with a modified proximity detection system in mine haul trucks following an accident investigation

Cooke T. Horberry T.
Ergonomics Australia – HFESA 2011 Conference Edition, 2011 11:44.

Abstract

Background: Collisions involving heavy vehicles at mines continue to be common, often with serious consequences. An emerging technology to prevent collisions is in-cab proximity detection systems. This paper builds on previous work where a proximity detection system at an underground gold mine was analysed using a number of human factors methods. After this work was completed, but before any changes were made to the interface, a collision occurred at the mine. Aims: The initial aim of the research was to determine if the predicted issues with the interface and collision prevention strategies were present in the accident. The secondary aim was to test driver acceptance of the interface changes made in response. Method and results: The incident was analysed by direct interviews using a modified form of the Critical Decision Method. The accident site was then viewed with the recreated vehicle positions. Twelve failings in collision prevention risk controls, including proximity detection systems, were found. All of these failings were predicted by the human factors methods. Some of the recommended changes were then made to the interface. Driver acceptance of these changes was measured using a scale accepted and validated for on-road in-vehicle systems. Conclusions: The analysis of the accident provides evidence that human factors methods can accurately predict issues with in-cab proximity detection systems for mining equipment. Furthermore, it appears that these methods lead to design changes that are accepted by drivers. More research is required to test if the changes are also effective.

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