RCT – Powered by Epiroc is helping transform warehouse safety at one of Australia’s leading logistics providers with the successful deployment of its advanced Pedestrian Alert System (PAS).
The client identified increasing safety risks within its warehouse and distribution environments, driven by higher activity levels, mixed materials handling equipment (MHE), and frequent pedestrian interaction.
Determined to proactively address these challenges, the company’s National Asset Manager initiated a comprehensive evaluation of emerging safety technologies, seeking a solution that could deliver real-time, highly accurate pedestrian detection without disrupting operations.
Warehouse environments are inherently complex, with forklifts, reach trucks, and other equipment operating in close proximity to personnel at all times.
Despite robust safety protocols already in place, the business experienced a rise in near-miss incidents and identified limitations in traditional controls such as signage, barriers, and high-visibility PPE.
In addition, most existing detection technologies trialled proved inconsistent in high-traffic, dynamic environments, highlighting the need for a more reliable and scalable solution.
A nationwide trial was therefore conducted across high-activity sites, assessing a range of technologies including wearable solutions, tag-based proximity systems, and AI-driven camera detection, which included our Pedestrian Alert System (PAS).
Each solution was evaluated against key operational criteria, including detection accuracy, reliability, false alert rates, ease of integration, and operator usability.
Following extensive testing, our PAS emerged as the clear leader.
“The solution demonstrated exceptional real-time detection accuracy, with zero false positives recorded during trial periods, eliminating unnecessary operator distraction,” said RCT’s Industrial Global Business Development Manager, Nigel Goode.
“It also delivered consistent performance across diverse environments, including high-density traffic zones, while offering seamless integration across mixed Material Handling Equipment fleets,” he added.
Based on the successful trial, the logistics provider has formally adopted RCT’s PAS as its exclusive pedestrian detection solution.
A phased rollout is now underway across its national network, prioritising high-risk sites and facilities with elevated levels of pedestrian and equipment interaction.
The system is being deployed across a wide range of equipment, ensuring consistent safety standards across all operations.
“The PAS system’s ease of installation and configuration has further supported rapid deployment without impacting operations,” he added.
The adoption of PAS will significantly reduce near misses and potential incidents while improving operator awareness and response times.
“It also reinforces a strong safety culture and supports the company’s commitment to achieving zero harm across its operations,” he said.
This initiative marks an important step forward in leveraging advanced technology to create safer, smarter warehouse environments.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
A prominent mine in New South Wales, Australia, took a significant step forward in the modernisation of their equipment and operations by going digital with RCT - Powered by Epiroc.
Renowned for extracting tin, lead, and zinc, the site's commitment to innovation has led to this upgrade which will ensure greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability on site.
For years, the site has successfully operated a fleet of CAT 2900s using RCT’s analogue system.
Recently the decision was made to transition their production fleet of CAT 2900s to a full digital system - AutoNav Lite, allowing the site access to enhanced diagnostics and predictive maintenance.
Operators control the Automated LHD machines from customised Telecabins, mounted to Toyota Land Cruiser Utilities.
Now, with the implementation of a digital operation, they can monitor machinery status, from these vehicles without needing to go back to a central control room to observe/diagnose the LHD information.
This significantly increases operational efficiency and improves safety by reducing the time workers spend in potentially hazardous underground areas.
Although these cabins were already in operation, they underwent a customised digital hardware upgrade to meet the site’s specific needs. This included network management, and connectivity, ensuring that even the most remote areas of the mine are always connected.
The site’s move to digital is only the beginning. The company plans to continue refining and enhancing its systems to further optimise machine performance. With new hardware and technology being developed at a rapid pace, the mine owner has an eye on further innovations that will keep the mine at the forefront of the industry.
This digital transition not only strengthens the mine’s operational capabilities but also positions the site as a leader in mining innovation adoption.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
The foundations for RCT were laid by the desire of one man to safeguard those working in a notoriously dangerous industry and ensure their return home to their families at the end of the working day.
From here, RCT's Muirhead Protection range became the cornerstone of the company, evolving to protect both operators and machines. More than 50 years later, the Protection product range remains relevant, saving lives and reducing wear and tear on machines worldwide.
The Muirhead Protection range includes a variety of products, such as Idle Timers, Speed Limiters, Park Brake Interlocks, Fatigue Monitoring, Incline Controllers, and Engine Protection. These solutions were designed in conjunction with end-users for maximum effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Primarily designed to safeguard operators, every solution also enhances machine availability and longevity, significantly boosting the client's bottom line. While the solutions are still in demand, the leading products differ depending on the target audience.
For example, Fuel Cap Isolation is highly popular in underground mining, whereas Raised Tray Warning systems are best sellers in surface mining.
"A very common occurrence in the industry saw miners drive off with the fuel nozzle still in the fuel tank," said RCT's General Manager, Dave Holman.
"This was due to simple distraction while performing this mundane task." This often caused thousands of dollars in damage to the fuel station and machine and resulted in wasted fuel.
The Fuel Cap Isolation solution is a simple yet effective device that ensures the machine (any make or model) remains locked out and in a safe state during refuelling.
In surface mining, the Raised Tray Warning system is the most popular. This device prevents damage by limiting the tray's raised angle, restricting it from going too high for the space. "This common occurrence caused damage to the machine and work area. This simple device alerts the driver before any damage occurs," said Mr Holman.
Over the years, the range has evolved significantly. While new products are no longer released as frequently, RCT has focused on refining the existing range. "The solutions work well in key areas of the industry, so we looked at consolidating multiple devices into one controller," said Holman.
"Where we once had a machine fitted with four controllers, we now have one controller that does the job of all four."
"It's this innovative thinking that has kept RCT relevant for 50+ years," said Holman.
Discover more about how RCT's Muirhead Protection range can safeguard your operations. Visit the Protection page, download the brochure, or xxxxx xx to see how our innovative solutions can benefit you.
The challenges surrounding safety and operational efficiency in the supply chain industry are ever-present. With forklifts and personnel sharing the same working space, the risk of accidents and fatalities remains high. Therefore, the necessity for innovative solutions that ensure everyone’s safety is mandatory, and a bonus that these solutions also optimise operations at the same time.
Incidents in the industry serve as stark and timely reminders of the potential hazards associated with supply chain operations. For instance, the recent tragic accident involving a forklift operator in Australia underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures.
Despite the operator having a high-risk work license and recent safety training, an unfortunate lapse resulted in a fatal outcome. This illustrates the need for robust safety protocols and advanced technology to prevent such accidents.
Earlier in the year, SafeWork NSW had launched a statewide compliance operation aimed at reducing injuries caused by mobile plant, fixed machinery, and vehicles in the workplace. To date, this operation has already resulted in over 140 notices being issued, with a significant focus on forklift safety, including managing risks such as pedestrian separation, rollover and collision prevention, and ensuring proper maintenance and inspection protocols.
At RCT, safety is our top priority. Our innovative technology is versatile and can be installed on any machine, regardless of make or model. Forklift-related incidents can be a thing of the past with some of the following solutions:
RCT’s SmarTrack Fleet Management system is essential in offering a comprehensive approach mitigating risks. From monitoring, controlling, and optimising the use of forklifts, it integrates real-time data and advanced analytics to provide operators with invaluable insights into each forklift’s performance and status. This enhances operational efficiency and enables proactive maintenance, reducing the likelihood of equipment failure and accidents.
One of the most significant advancements in supply chain safety is the implementation of RCT’s Pedestrian Alert Systems (PAS). Designed to detect and alert operators to the presence of personnel near forklifts, this system prevents accidents before they occur by providing awareness. Utilising state-of-the-art sensors and communication technology, the PAS ensures operators are always aware of their surroundings, significantly reducing the risk of collisions and enhancing overall site safety.
The supply chain industry faces unique challenges that require innovative solutions. RCT’s SmarTrack Fleet Management and Pedestrian Alert System can be combined into one integrated solution, delivering full coverage for these challenges and offering a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective way to manage supply chain operations.
Ready to invest to further protect your workforce and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive industry? With a comprehensive global support team, we’re ready to hear from you. Enquire now at xxxxxxxxx@xxx-xxxxxx.xxx
A Western Australian mine recently approached RCT for a speed limiting solution to safeguard three of its newly acquired underground trucks and its operators at its mine site.
The trucks, equipped with seven gears from factory settings and the client wanted to be able to control the speed of the trucks while underground to ensure safety of operators and the mine itself.
“In order to speed up trucking tonnes-kilometres the client wanted to speed limit the trucks underground but have the operators to still be able to utilise all of the gears at a higher speed while on the surface,” said RCT’s Account Manager Scott Phillips.
The state-of-the-art safety solution is fully programable with four speed settings available to suit individual needs to various situations and speeds. The tamper resistant design also conveniently interfaces directly into a machine throttle circuit.
In addition, a Geo-Fencing kit was implemented on site to further control the trucks speeds in different locations and a proportional retarder control system to make sure the truck maintains a constant speed no matter the gradient it is manoeuvring on.
With speeding being widely recognised as a major contributor to light vehicle accidents in mine sites around the globe, this solution is well sought after in the mining industry. In addition to reducing incidents, it also helps to lower fuel consumption.
The client has been so impressed with the speed limiting solution that it has already ordered three more to be installed on more trucks operating on site.
As with all RCT’s solutions, the Speed Limiter is agnostic and is suitable for all makes and models.
The industry’s largest global mining event is nearly upon us and RCT is gearing up to showcase at the world-renowned MINExpo held in Las Vegas, Nevada USA.
From September 24 – 26, RCT and be found at booth 11075 where we will be showcasing our industry-leading agnostic automation for both the surface and underground mine sites, our state-of-the-art Collision Avoidance and MIC as well as our Data and Information Systems.
“RCT is invested in advancing businesses by integrating our state-of-the-art solutions designed for any machine make or model and this is what makes us stand apart from our competitors,” said RCT’s Global Development Manager, Ryan Noden.
“This and the fact we support our clients and solutions throughout the process is also what sets us apart from our competitors,” he added.
This year’s MINExpo’s tagline is “Innovation lives here” which sums up what RCT has done for the last 50 years, to remain cutting-edge.
RCT’s main attraction will be our two Automation Centres at the booth, one displaying our automation at work on the surface of a mine and an underground environment.
As well as exploring all our cutting-edge solutions on display, available for all mobile mining machines, regardless of make or models, there is the opportunity to meet with RCT’s team of industry experts.
This includes, RCT’s Executive Director and Founder, Bob Muirhead who has more than 50 years’ experience in the industry, inventing, producing and refining mining technology solutions to improve safety and productivity on sites.
Joining Bob will be our experienced and knowledgeable sales team from RCT’s branches all over the world including, Ryan Noden, Aaron McIntosh and Kole Paulin. In addition to this, our Product Specialists Brendon Cullen and Andrew Sells will be on hand to answer any of your questions.
If you would like to reach out and book an appointment with one of the team, please register your interest by emailing: xxxxxxxxx@xxx-xxxxxx.xxx. Otherwise, we look forward to welcoming you to our booth and help you explore our transformative, agnostic solutions at MINExpo next month.
RCT and Epiroc are proud to announce it has powered together to deliver Boddington Mine site a state-of-the-art camera solution for its SmartROC D65 Drill Rig.
The Newmont-owned gold mine resides in Western Australia and is no stranger to RCT, having worked with the company for well over the last decade.
As a result, a numerous array of RCT solutions can be found on site. This ranges from a water cart remote refill technology , Teleremote dozer, silent horn systems (which can be found across most of the HME fleet), protection safety solutions and various camera systems.
The most recent project, which is currently underway will have RCT deliver a fit-for-purpose camera solution to allow operators to get a clear and accurate vision of the Epiroc drill rig they are operating within the day-to-day mining production.
“The camera vision package is a combination of fixed digital cameras, self-cleaning cameras and Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) which RCT’s Custom department will formalise all together into a reliable network distribution package,” said RCT’s Account Manager, Phill Dean.
These cameras will display vision from the drill rig to three 43-inch screens at the Epiroc based RCS.
“The drill is being used in close proximity to the high walls of the pit and the camera as a package is enabling the operator to be empowered to be both safe and productive,” he added.
Stay tuned for more to come on this project…
The drill and blast method of surface mining just got a whole lot safer thanks to Jevons Robotics and RCT.
The companies joined forces to deliver a safer alternative to carrying out blast quality assurance, loading or stemming, replacing it with a single battery electric machine able to carry out the process on any bench condition including severely contoured or cavity filled ground.
Jevons Robotics can now deliver explosives or stemming via their ARTEV6000 product using an RCT’s remote control set either via Line-of-Sight or Teleremote control.
Implementing this technology has eliminated the need for personnel to conduct quality assurance or load the blast holes manually which removes exposure hours associated with highwalls, cavities and fatigue.
RCT’s Custom Manager David Wright said this project was different to any job done before and therefore our specialised bespoke department given the job.
“It is the first time we have remote controlled this type of vehicle carrying out this job scope,” said Mr Wright.
“We were able to use standard loader code, getting it on the machine and talking to the machine,” he said when asked about the execution of the project.
The job, in its manual state is well-known as being high-risk which also makes the role difficult to not only recruit for but then retain the staff.
“The great thing about the Jevons platform is that it can be used for a variety of applications on a mine site to remove additional hazards and its flexibility Is something that will bring great value to the industry, so we were so pleased to be able to work together on it.”
Jevons Robotics CEO Todd Peate said that when Jevons were looking for a teleop and line-of-sight capability we were immediately drawn to the established competency of RCT and its deep experience in mining.
“We wanted a solution that eased our customers mind on automating this process and we certainly have that with RCT,” said Todd.
The Avebury nickel sulphide project has come out of care and maintenance after 10 long years and has stepped into the future of mining with the help of RCT.
The Mallee-owned nickel sulphide project has empowered the site by installing RCT’s Digital Automation on three of its Sandvik 517i Loaders on site. Together with the deployment of two Automation Stations; removing operators from the cab of the machine and into an ergonomic and safe environment.
This technology will catapult the site into the future increasing productivity and safety and transforming the operator’s mining experience for the better.
“RCT was chosen for the project due to numerous reasons including our ability to install solutions on any brand of machine, fast set-up time, and ability to deliver fast,” said RCT’s Account Manager, Wayne Carrington.
The site’s goal is to run on 100 per cent electric underground and in doing so effectively run a mine of the future.
Avebury has one of the two Automation Centres operating from surface so operators can control machines without having to go underground.
“This dramatically reduces shift changeover time, ensure operator safety further and drive productivity,” said Mr Carrington.
RCT’s state-of-the-art solutions have been in operation at the site for many months and already the site has seen a productivity increase.
The Avebury site has basically started from scratch in terms of beginning to mine the site again.
“We don’t get very many new mines into the fold, so it was great to be able to supply them
with the best of our technology to start their mining journey,” said Mr Carrington.
“RCT technology is agile, and they can use it for many years to come,” he said.
Operations are now more efficient and safer for a Western Australia-based Earth Moving team thanks to the deployment of a ControlMaster® remote-controlled technology package to an Amphiroll Mud Scroller.
The mud scroller, used to aerate the caustic mud of the tailings pond to dry it out, was previously a manual operation requiring two machines operating at one time for personnel safety reasons.
The ControlMaster® Line-of-Sight solution has removed the operator from the cabin and allows them to control the machine from up to 200M line of sight. This custom one-off kit was designed, supplied, and installed by both the Perth Customer Service and RCT Custom team, the company’s designated bespoke solutions department.
“This solution removes operators from any potential danger that could arise from them physically being out on a tailings pond and allows them to instead carry out the task from the safety of a light vehicle located nearby,” said RCT’s Account Manager, Phill Dean.
The introduction of this technology has also dramatically changed how the Mud Scroller is transported to various sites.
“Previously amphirolls were twice the size requiring oversize movement permits and weighed about 18 tonnes so moving this piece of machinery required large multi-lift crane operation.” he said.
“Now, the logistics of moving the small unit is easier and only requires a large tile tray and this in itself reduces mobilisation costs substantially.”
As well as deploying the ControlMaster® technology. RCT designed, manufactured, and installed the EarthTrack® custom dashboard.
“This dashboard was designed to display all the integral information in an easy-to-read format. It will let the operator know the pump pressures, engine temps, fuel level and an overall live health report,” he said.
The new and improved mud scroller remote solution was deployed at the beginning of the year in trials and is being used today with great success to value add to their long-term clients.
