Thursday, April 5, 2012

Coal mining companies can monitor equipment use with barcode ...

Posted April 4, 2012

Coal is a useful energy source used in many homes nationwide. Companies hire workers to complete projects in mines to find sedimentary rock and alternative energy sources. The National Mining Association reports nearly half of the United States' energy is generated from coal, and as a result, mining companies emphasize productivity to keep the nation running.

Miners face challenging daily tasks, and barcode systems can help improve their work. Employees can use a barcode scanner to monitor the equipment they use, making the workplace more efficient. Additionally, workers can limit the number of mining accidents and injuries with enhanced productivity, helping businesses lower their absenteeism rates. 

For example, coal mining companies may provide workers with flashlights, helmets and other personal protective equipment. While the gear can help workers stay safe, the products may occasionally suffer damage and need to be replaced. However, placing a barcode label on these items enhances inventory tracking, and allows employers to monitor their use.

This can be especially helpful when workers are required to use heavy-duty machinery such as continuous miners. These machines feature a large rotating steel drum and teeth that allow workers to complete work underground. Continuous miners are well built, but maintenance or repair may be required after extended use. Thankfully, employers can monitor the item's condition with barcodes. Companies can put the barcode on the machine's rear, and employees can use a cordless reader to track its condition.

For instance, an employee may complete a work shift, but notice the continuous miner slows as the day progresses. The worker can scan the barcode to receive information about the last time the unit was serviced. This allows the worker to view prior repairs and could lead the employee to report maintenance concerns to a supervisor.

Equipment failure may cause workplace hazards to develop if employees cannot access supplies underground and could lead to productivity and safety issues. Employees may miss the opportunity to contribute due to work-related injuries, which could lower a company's productivity.

The Honeywell Xenon 1902 provides an affordable solution in this scenario. A company can use the device's extended depth of field to scan high- and low-quality barcodes quickly. This can help employers and miners complete underground projects successfully.

Filed under: Data Collection

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