skip navigational links http://www.dol.gov www.msha.gov United States Department of Labor
A to Z Index | Find It! in DOL |            [skip navigational links]     Search MSHA's Website   Search MSHA
 
MSHA's Accident Prevention Program

Mining Equipment Camera Installation Tips for Best Results

Position and Mount the monitor so that:

  • It does not obstruct the operators view.
  • It is easy to see at a quick glance and doesn't require the operator to contort his head or body.
  • It is shielded from glare from the sun.
  • It does not obstruct the control panel or any equipment controls.
  • Its controls can be easily reached by the operator.
  • It is securely attached to either the roof or the floor of the cab.

Position the Camera(s) to:

  • Shield the camera from engine exhaust and retarder heat sinks.
  • View blind areas to see persons or objects near the vehicle in the front, sides, and rear , depending on the size of the equipment and the blind areas.
  • Assist in backing by viewing the inside edges of both rear tires on rear dumps and the ground very close to the machine.
  • Avoid duplicating mirror coverage.
  • Be protected from physical damage by utilizing heat shields, mud flaps, and machine members.
  • Be protected from sun glare by mounting the rear camera on rear dumpers up as close to the underside of the bed as possible.

Route and Protect the Wiring by:

  • Never running the wiring through access panels or their openings.
  • Putting wiring in protected location.
  • Keeping it away from hot surfaces.
  • Keeping it away from pinch points such as door jambs.
  • Following the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) wiring harness bundle.
  • Tie wrapping the camera wiring harness to the OEM harness wherever possible with no more than 1 foot increments between tie wraps.
  • Avoiding routing in areas near fuel, fluids and lubricants.

Power Source Considerations:

  • Fuse the power feed to the camera system.
  • Be certain camera/monitor voltage is compatible with the power source.
  • Use a regulated power supply to prevent power surges.
  • Consult the equipment manual(s) about where to tap in for a power source.

Maintenance Suggestions:

  • Shielding the cameras from high heat sources will increase their life.
  • Silicon gel on connections will help reduce corrosion related water damage.
  • If the monitor shakes during equipment operation, add bracing to prevent circuit board fatigue and electrical failure.
  • Some mines pressure wash the cameras to clean the lenses but, excessively high water pressures may cause leakage past the lense seals.
  • Silicone gel protects speaker openings from water damage without hindering speaker operation.
  • Keeping a spare system on the shelf will virtually eliminate system down time concerns.



Back to Top   Back to Top www.msha.gov www.dol.gov


Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
1100 Wilson Boulevard, 21st Floor
Arlington, VA 22209-3939
Phone:    (202) 693-9400
Fax-on-demand: (202) 693-9401
Technical (web) questions: Webmaster
On-line Filing Help: MSHAhelpdesk@dol.gov
or call (877) 778-6055

Contact Us