Fire safety in the African mining industry

DoseTech, South Africa has been a FireDos distribution partner for over 20 years. Mike Feldon, Managing Director from the company answered a few questions for us on the subject of fire safety in the African mining industry.

How would you describe current developments in the African mining industry?

There is a lot of growth through the entire African continent, through a mixed of more favourable working environments and improved political stability, to the vast variety of minerals available. 

What technical and economic challenges are currently of greatest concern to mine operators?

Technically currently the need is for low technology that rely heavily on manual labour and thus create jobs, economically it very much related to each country.

What role do safety and fire protection play today compared to 26 years ago - when you began working with FireDos?

Health and safety for the miners and the mining industry has increased dramatically to a “Zero Tolerance” and “Everybody must go home each day Safely” as the goals and expectation, this is achieved from owner to front line miner training and commitment.

What fire risks typically exist, and which areas require special protection?

Bulk fuel storage (Hydrocarbons) both above and below ground, fuel off loading trains and truck station, conveyor belts, work shops above and below ground, heliports, harbour.

What requirements do you have for modern fire protection solutions, and in which areas do you see the greatest potential for automation?

The addition of foam concentrates and proportioners is increasing in the above-mentioned risk areas, plus a need for more remote-control systems for remote area protection is slowly improving, automation is not currently a factor, however some early green shoots are been developed.

Below you can also watch a video of Mike at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 - enjoy!

How important are foam proportioning systems in mine fire protection today, and how has their use evolved in recent years?

They are very important and becoming more frequently requested and utilised.

How do you address the challenge of water scarcity?

Water scarcity is subject to each specific mine, which will have to be solved by the mine in order for the mine to function, they will find sufficient water, from bore holes, near by rivers etc.

How do you organize maintenance of equipment in the mine?

This is a big challenge, 1st is getting access onto the mine due to the safety training, medicals, etc which can take many days, ultimately for a small repair, we do train the installers on how to do preventative maintenance on the FireDos proportioners, plus have had units sent to our workshops for repairs.

How will the African mining industry change in the coming years?

There will be a lot of increased mining and mines, I don’t see automation have a big influence in the next 5 to 10 years due to the abundance of labour.