The Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum 2025, held in Saskatoon from April 9th to 10th, served as a stark reminder of the perilous nature of mining operations. Brigade Canada, a leader in commercial vehicle safety technology, seized the opportunity to showcase its cutting-edge solutions, sparking crucial conversations about safety in the mining and quarrying sectors.
The harsh realities of mining were laid bare by Warren Di Marco, CEO of Brigade Canada. “In 2021, mobile vehicles replaced rock falls as the top killer of miners worldwide,” he stated, painting a grim picture of the industry’s safety landscape. With 46.9 fatalities per 100,000 workers each year, the mining sector’s fatality rate is six times higher than that of all other private industry sectors. This stark statistic underscores the urgent need for advanced safety solutions.
Brigade Canada’s exhibit at the forum was a testament to the company’s commitment to enhancing safety in the mining sector. The company’s range of AI-powered safety solutions, including AI cameras, radar predict systems, and front radar, were on full display. These technologies are designed to aid drivers and prevent collisions, addressing the unique challenges posed by rough terrain and harsh weather conditions.
One of Brigade’s standout products is its AI driver safety camera, a recent addition to the market. This innovative system aims to mitigate incidents caused by driver fatigue or lack of concentration. By continuously monitoring the driver’s face, eyes, and head movements, the camera can detect signs of distracted behavior, tiredness, and even cellphone usage. Built-in AI analyzes these signals and provides audible alerts to the driver, with the option to notify the fleet manager as well.
Another highlight was Brigade’s upgraded Backeye 360, a bestseller since its 2013 launch. This 360-degree camera system now features AI capable of identifying humans in vehicle blind spots, a critical feature for mining operations. The system provides drivers with a complete 360-degree view of their vehicle in a single image, merging images from four cameras positioned around the vehicle. This ‘bird’s-eye view’ is essential for safeguarding workers in busy and constricted sites.
Di Marco emphasized the importance of these advancements, stating, “By enhancing our Backeye 360 and other cameras with AI technology, we offer operators even greater assurance that they are using the safest solutions available.” The seamless integration of Brigade’s AI cameras into a vehicle’s existing infrastructure further underscores the company’s commitment to practical, effective safety solutions.
The forum served as a catalyst for debate and reflection within the mining industry. As operators grapple with the harsh realities of their work environment, the need for advanced safety technologies has never been more apparent. Brigade Canada’s presence at the forum was a clarion call for the industry to prioritize safety, leveraging cutting-edge technology to protect its most valuable asset: its people.
The ripple effects of this news are likely to be significant. Other companies in the sector may feel compelled to innovate and upgrade their safety measures, fostering a competitive environment that benefits workers. Moreover, the forum’s discussions may influence policy changes, pushing for stricter safety regulations in the mining industry. As the sector continues to evolve, the focus on safety will undoubtedly shape its future trajectory, with technology playing a pivotal role.