Background

BIS specializes in the handling, hauling, and processing of millions of tons of raw materials annually. At the Karara Mine, the largest mining operation in Western Australia’s Mid-West, BIS manages the unique Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) and a complex mobile conveyor stacking system.

Operating 24/7, the Karara project is a massive undertaking, producing high-grade magnetite concentrate. In an operation of this scale, BIS moves approximately 9 million tonnes of dry stack tailings per year, requiring a massive fleet of specialised mobile plant and a dedicated workforce.

Problem

With the Karara site operating around the clock, personnel were frequently exposed to hazardous dust generated by processing large-scale magnetite and managing tailings. BIS identified several critical risks:

  • Constant exposure to fine, hazardous dust created an unsafe breathing environment.
  • Workers were inadvertently transporting dust on their uniforms into clean zones, vehicles, and break areas.
  • The solution needed to be fast and durable enough to support a high-output, 24-hour production cycle without slowing down the supply chain.

Solution

To address these challenges, BIS became the Western Australian pioneer for Mideco’s Bat Booth®. This NIOSH-compliant de-dusting system was integrated to provide a quick, safe, and highly effective decontamination point for workers throughout their shift.

Key Technical Features:

  • 10-Second De-dusting: The Bat Booth removes up to 88% of dust from contaminated clothing in a single 10-second cycle.
  • NIOSH-Compliant Safety: Designed according to strict NIOSH guidelines, the system ensures personnel are cleaned safely without the risks associated with manual methods.
  • Preventative Protection: The system prevents direct inhalation and stops cross-contamination between work zones.

Result

The implementation of the Bat Booth has allowed BIS to maintain its industry-leading production rates while upholding its promise to prioritize the wellbeing of its people. As the first company in Western Australia to adopt this technology, BIS has set a new regional benchmark for Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) in the mining sector.

Is your team dealing with hazardous dust? Contact us today.