How A-OSH EXPO is helping mines tackle collision, fatigue, and fire risks

South Africa’s mining sector is under sharper scrutiny than ever, as incidents, illegal mining tragedies, and rising regulatory expectations force operators to prove that safety is not just a policy but a daily practice. For mines that rely on complex fleets, deep-level operations, and contractor-heavy workforces, the margin for error is shrinking. The question is no longer whether to invest in better safety systems, but how quickly and effectively this can be done.

A-OSH EXPO, co-located with Securex South Africa, Facilities Management Expo, Firexpo, and RE+ South Africa at the Gallagher Convention Centre from 2 to 4 June 2026, provides mines with a focused, in-person opportunity to evaluate the tools that support safer operations, stronger oversight, and real-time decision-making. Exhibitors will showcase systems that help mines detect risks earlier, reduce human error, and reinforce compliance with stricter safety expectations.

Seminar theatres as a knowledge hub for mine safety

Before stepping onto the exhibition floor, many mining visitors will head straight for the free-to-attend seminar theatres, which are a proven drawcard for media, safety leaders, and engineers alike.

“The seminar theatres across four shows provide practical guidance on issues that are high on the mining agenda, including risk profiling, emergency planning, behavioural safety, heat exposure, and the integration of smart monitoring into existing systems. For mines seeking clear direction on compliance, digital reporting, and safety culture, these sessions offer straightforward, actionable advice,” says Mark Anderson, Portfolio Director at Montgomery Group Africa.

Targeted technology

One of the key technologies reshaping mine safety is collision avoidance. Modern suppliers integrate proximity detection with telematics so that heavy-vehicle operators receive real-time alerts when pedestrians or vehicles enter danger zones. This reduces the likelihood of tip-point accidents, cross-traffic incidents, and blind-spot collisions. Telematics data then becomes a reliable incident record, helping mines understand root causes and refine safety procedures.

Wearable Internet of Things technology is also gaining traction. Compact sensors track fatigue, body temperature, and heart rate to warn supervisors before a worker’s alertness drops below safe levels. In addition, AI-enabled fatigue detection systems mounted inside cabs detect microsleep, distraction, and risky behaviour, sending automatic alerts to safety controllers.

These technologies are especially relevant in South Africa, where fatigue, heat stress, and repetitive shift cycles contribute to injury rates. By analysing telematics and wearable data, mine managers can redesign shift rotations, optimise routes, and prevent high-exposure tasks from overloading workers.

“Exhibitors at A-OSH EXPO will present mine safety solutions in live demonstrations, helping mines understand how to implement them effectively without disrupting production,” says Anderson.

Fire and explosion risk

Fire and explosion risks remain another dominant concern, particularly in areas where battery-powered machinery, charging stations, or lithium-ion equipment are present. Firexpo’s exhibitors contribute essential suppression solutions, gas-monitoring systems, and multi-sensor detection designed for mines and processing plants. Mines can compare products side by side, including heat-resistant PPE, ventilation technology, and early-warning systems for underground operations.

There is also increasing national attention on the importance of securing abandoned shafts and improving access-control measures around disused mine infrastructure. While the circumstances differ from active mining environments, these discussions reinforce the value of strong monitoring, perimeter management, and safety visibility.

“During the co-located shows, especially Securex South Africa, mines can explore practical solutions that improve situational awareness and support controlled, compliant operations,” says Anderson.

Why 2026 matters for exhibitors and visitors

For exhibitors, the 2026 event offers direct access to mine executives, procurement teams, engineers, and safety specialists who are actively seeking technology and training solutions. For visitors, it offers a chance to compare solutions, attend demonstrations, and build partnerships that support safer and more resilient mining operations.

“South Africa’s mines face rising expectations to prevent incidents, protect workers, and prove that safety systems genuinely work under pressure. A-OSH EXPO and its co-located exhibitions give the sector a concentrated platform to find practical tools, trusted partners, and fresh ideas that support long-term operational sustainability. Save the date and visit the A-OSH EXPO website at www.aosh.co.za to find out more about the exhibition and how your team can benefit,” says Anderson.

Organisations wishing to exhibit at A-OSH EXPO 2026, can contact the A-OSH EXPO team on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book a space or capitalise on a sponsorship opportunity.