The Swedish iron ore producer is implementing real-time tracking technology to enhance worker safety at its Kiruna and Malmberget mines
LKAB has begun deploying an advanced digital security system developed by Epiroc across its underground iron ore operations in northern Sweden. The technology replaces the company’s current area-based tracking system with real-time location monitoring and enhanced communication capabilities.
Safety drives every decision at LKAB, which operates underground mines in Kiruna and Malmberget. The company’s current safety solution uses markers that divide mines into zones and estimate worker locations. While this system has protected workers for years, LKAB realized that modern technology could significantly improve safety standards.
Real-time tracking transforms emergency response
Epiroc’s comprehensive safety system provides precise location tracking of individuals and vehicles using Wi-Fi, mobile devices and advanced tagging technology. The system enables targeted communication to specific mine areas, ensuring workers receive relevant safety alerts and evacuation notices directly on their work phones.
“This solution gives people in the mines more real-time information about the situation,” said Hans Wahlquist, Global Director of Digital Product Management Solutions at Epiroc. “We want to reduce the time from when a potential alarm goes off to when everyone is safe. In addition, we want to increase daily safety using area-based messaging and other system functions, and we believe this digital solution can help with that.”
During emergency situations, the system allows rapid communication with all underground personnel while confirming their locations and facilitating coordinated responses. Workers can recognize messages, providing control room operators with immediate confirmation of their status.
The technology also features an easy-to-use 3D mapping system similar to Google Maps, accessible on business phones and in vehicles. This navigation tool helps personnel locate equipment, rescue rooms and other critical points throughout the mine.
The partnership emphasizes on-site development
LKAB has begun rolling out the new system at its Kiruna mine, while regular testing begins at Malmberget. The implementation reflects a long-term partnership between the companies that emphasizes teamwork, on-site development in production environments and constant feedback.
“Safety is our top priority at LKAB. This technology looks promising as it provides our employees with an increased level of safety and support while working underground,” said Mikael Winneback, IT Project Manager at LKAB.
Winnebäck emphasizes the value of cooperative development. “Epiroc had developers on site at the mine during the project, which was important for a successful outcome. They gained a better understanding of the complexities and could see the impacts of the solutions in our working environment.”
Digital technology addresses industry challenges
The partnership demonstrates how digital transformation can address critical challenges for the mining industry. The Epiroc system includes four integrated modules that work together to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
The situational awareness unit and virtual tag track personnel and vehicles in real-time, while automatically sending area-based safety messages to workers’ mobile phones as they enter hazard zones. Emergency support enables faster response and evacuation by allowing control rooms to send mass emergency messages and direct workers to rescue rooms.
“This project shows the potential for digital transformation in the mining industry, bringing us one step closer to a smarter and more efficient future,” said Hans Wahlquist.
The Onboard module provides 3D navigation of mining vehicles, displays potential collisions and facilitates quick response times to incidents. PocketMine gives each worker access to real-time 3D mine maps, navigation support, and emergency information through a mobile app that mirrors the capabilities of the control room.
Andreas Eriksson, Managing Director of Epiroc, said: “Digital applications are changing the rules of the game to avoid accidents and get people to safety quickly in the event of an accident. LKAB is a highly skilled organization with ambitious goals, and we are very proud to be part of their efforts to be at the forefront of workforce safety.”
More information is available at www.Epiroc.com
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