Davis Derby Minewatch Intrinsically Safe ( I.S.) Wi-PAN Underground Mining Tracking & Data Transfer System.

Davis Derby a longstanding SME serving the UK and international markets specialising in the
design and manufacture ATEX approved monitoring, control and communication systems for
use in underground coal mines. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) state explosive
atmospheres can be caused by flammable gases, mists or vapours or by combustible dusts. If
there is enough of the substance, mixed with air, then all it needs is a source of ignition to
cause an explosion. Preventing sources of ignition in equipment reduces the risk and these
systems are thus defined as being intrinsically safe. ATEX is the name commonly given to the
framework for controlling explosive atmospheres and the standards of equipment and
protective systems used in them. The European Directive 94/9/EC (also known as ‘ATEX 95’
or ‘the ATEX Equipment Directive’) provides a framework for the design of equipment and
protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
Emerging wirelessmesh networking technology gives the opportunity for the development of
ATEX approved integrated wireless networks that offers robust solutions for enhanced
automation in underground coalmining and improved mine safety. In mine emergency
situations the integrated wireless will maintain personal communication, facilitate effective
and coordinated response to protect mine workers and rescue teams.
The development will set standards in the effective use of ATEX approved underground
wireless networks in what has been hitherto been a challenging environment for under ground
radio communications. The market has been served with piecemeal and inadequate solutions
that are becoming obsolete that fail to meet International and European standards.
The successful development of this emerging wireless technology in underground mining and
tunnelling will provide a comprehensive intrinsically safe ATEX approved solution to
automation and safety maintaining our market leadership in UK and international markets.