Compliance system and method

Abstract

This invention relates to a compliance system and method, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a compliance system and method in respect of inspections of processes and equipment and maintenance of equipment in mining and other industries. Comprising the steps of; creating a task request, on an online platform, for a task to be performed, specifying task requirements, receiving service provider information, accepting service provider information, and making available a task unlock code.

Description

[0001] COMPLIANCE SYSTEM AND METHOD

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to a compliance system and method, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a compliance system and method in respect of inspections of processes and equipment and maintenance of equipment in mining and other industries.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] In the mining industry, inspections and maintenance conducted by artisans and engineers on processes and equipment are critical to ensuring safety and compliance with the mining laws and regulations. However, these inspection processes are often manually logged on paper-based records, creating significant challenges in reliability, timeliness, and accessibility of information.

[0006] As an example, the inspection of the winding in an electric motor used in mining operations is a critical procedure to ensure safety, reliability, and operational efficiency. Given the harsh conditions in mining environments, such as high humidity, dust, and vibrations, regular inspections are essential. The process involves visual examination, electrical testing, and mechanical assessments.Before beginning the inspection, it is necessary to ensure that the motor is powered off and locked out to prevent accidental start-up. All residual electrical energy must be discharged, and proper grounding verified. Inspectors should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves, safety glasses, and work boots. Additionally, the inspection area should be checked to confirm the absence of hazards, such as water or combustible dust, that could compromise safety.

[0007] The motor housing must be opened to examine the windings for visible signs of damage, such as discoloration, bums, or frayed insulation. Dust, debris, and contaminants like oil or moisture should be removed using appropriate cleaning agents. Connections in the terminal box should be checked for looseness or damage, and the motor's interior should be inspected for foreign objects. The condition of the insulation must be assessed for cracks, wear, or other signs of overheating or mechanical stress.

[0008] A series of electrical tests should be conducted to evaluate the condition of the windings. An insulation resistance test is essential to verify the integrity of the winding insulation, with results compared to manufacturer specifications. A winding resistance test can confirm uniformity between phases, while a high-voltage test may be used to detect insulation breakdown under simulated operating conditions. A surge test is recommended to identify turn-to-turn faults, short circuits, or weaknesses in the insulation.The windings should be inspected for signs of thermal damage, such as warping or deformation. The motor's cooling system, including fans and ventilation pathways, must be assessed to ensure proper airflow, as excessive heat can degrade insulation and reduce motor lifespan. Mechanically, the windings must be securely fixed, with no movement or vibration during operation. The condition of related components, such as bearings and shafts, should also be verified, as issues in these areas can indirectly impact winding performance.

[0009] All findings, including test results, visual observations, and detected abnormalities, should be documented. This is typically or mostly a paperbased process. These results should be compared against the motor's baseline performance data or manufacturer specifications. If issues are identified, corrective actions such as rewinding, component replacement, or further diagnostics should be recommended. Regular inspections should be documented to establish a maintenance history and to identify trends that may signal emerging problems.

[0010] By adhering to this structured process, mining operators can maintain the reliability, efficiency and safety of electric motors, reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures that could disrupt operations.

[0011] As stated above, such processes are typically or mostly paper-based. Challenges associated with paper-based systems can be summarised as follows:- Timely Compliance: Challenges in maintaining accurate and timely inspection and maintenance records.

[0012] - Risk of Non-Compliance: Inefficiencies increase the risk of undetected non-compliance.

[0013] - Safety Risks: Delayed reporting heightens safety hazards.

[0014] - Lack of Digital Tools: No integrated solutions for inspection and maintenance processes.

[0015] - Slow Management Responses: Delayed access to information impacts decision-making.

[0016] - Paper Records: Dependence on paper logs makes data prone to errors and loss.

[0017] - Storage Challenges: Long-term storage of logbooks is inefficient and unreliable.

[0018] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0019] It is an object of this invention to provide an information management system and method which, at least partially, alleviates some of the abovementioned difficulties.

[0020] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0021] In accordance with this invention there is provided a compliance method comprising the steps of:creating a task request, on an online platform, for a task to be performed,

[0022] specifying task requirements,

[0023] receiving service provider information,

[0024] accepting service provider information, and

[0025] making available a task unlock code.

[0026] The request is created by a client.

[0027] The task requirements include procedural requirements.

[0028] The task unlock code allows a task to commence provided the client authorised commencement.

[0029] In authorising commencement, the client or operator confirms a method, process and / or equipment to be in an inspection mode.

[0030] There is provided for the inspection mode to include confirmation that the method, process or equipment is safe for a service provider to perform the task.

[0031] A still further feature of the invention provides for the task to include an inspection of a method, process and / or equipment.In accordance with a second aspect of the invention there is provided a compliance method comprising the steps of:

[0032] submitting, on an online platform, service provider information in response to a request, on the platform, for a task to be performed, accepting the task,

[0033] using a task unlock code to commence the task.

[0034] The creation of a task request is authorised using biometric authentication. There is provided for the submission of service provider information to be authorised using biometric authentication.

[0035] There is provided for task requirements to include task information relating to any one or more of the group consisting of: the nature of the task, a start date, an end date, required skills level of a service provider, required qualifications of a service provider, permits of a service provider, undertakings to be agreed by a service provider, statutory and / or regulatory provisions to be adhered to by a service provider.

[0036] The nature of the task includes the inspection of equipment or a process or a method.

[0037] There is provided for the equipment, process, or method to be equipment, a process or a method used or practiced in an industry.

[0038] There is provided for the industry to include the mining industry.There is further provided for the step of accepting the task to include confirmation of any one or more of the group consisting of: a start date, an end date, possession of the required skills level of the service provider, possession of the required qualifications of the service provider, existence and validity of permits of the service provider, agreement with undertakings specified, undertaking to comply with statutory and / or regulatory provisions. There is provided for the task unlock code to be made available in close proximity of a location where a task is to be performed.

[0039] The task unlock code is a electronically discernible code.

[0040] The steps performed by the client and service provider are stored on a storage means.

[0041] There is yet further provided for a client to confirm that a task may commence These and other features of the invention are described in further detail below.

[0042] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] One embodiment of the invention is described below, by way of example only and with reference to the drawings in which:

[0044] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram explaining the steps to register on a compliance app,

[0045] Figure 2 shows schematic diagram including steps to request the performance of a task, using the compliance app,Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram setting out the steps followed during the performance of a task, and

[0046] Figure 4 shows a number of screens in the process of retrieving information relating to a task.

[0047] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] With reference to the drawings, steps for implementing a compliance method and system are shown in figures 1 to 4.

[0049] In the embodiment described herein, the compliance method and system is embodied by an implemented through an online app. This embodiment is described with reference to a typical mining environment, as an example.

[0050] With reference to figure 1 , the steps for registering on the app are numbered 1 through 5. Both mine personnel (also referred to as “clients”) and service providers such as engineers and artisans register on the app. The steps for registration are as is commonly known in the art.

[0051] Once registered, a client request an inspection of equipment, an electrical motor, in this example. The requirement for the inspection is determined by the client or the app reminds the client that an inspection is due. The steps for requesting a task or creating an appointment are shown in figure 2.The client specifies the type of task to be performed (inspection of an electric motor), a preferred start date, and time, if required. The client also specifies the type of service provider required to performed the task such an engineer or a winder fitter. With the assistance of the app, the client confirms the statutory and other rules and / or regulations to be complied with.

[0052] In response to the request for the task (inspection) to be performed, a service provider accepts the task requirements using the app. The service provider uploads permits and other documentation to confirm their qualification and / or authorisation to perform the task.

[0053] The client accepts one of possibly a multiple submissions from various service providers who have responded to the request.

[0054] With reference to figure 3, on the date of commencement of the task, the service provider attends to the electric motor. The service provider scans a QR code in close proximity of the electric motor. Once the QR code is scanned to commence the task, the client must confirm commencement. In. confirming commencement, the client also confirms that the motor is handed over to the service provider in a safe mode. In other words, all possible hazards have been removed or minimised to ensure the service provider receives access to the motor according to a known standard and / or handover condition, safe for any defects that cannot reasonably be foreseen by the client. In addition, the service provider still needs to ensure his / her own safetyprocedures governed by company procedures, which the app will ask to ensure compliance.

[0055] The service provider now commences inspection (the task) and records progress, defects, actions taken and / or recommendations made. Follow up inspections or reporting or maintenance work to be performed can be diarised using the app to remind the service provider and client.

[0056] The service provider and / or client also confirms that the work was done in accordance with statutory guidelines. The app may include questions to be answered by the service provider and even the client applicable to a specific task.

[0057] All actions on the app including logging on to the app, requesting a task to be performed, submitting service provider information, accepting a service provider, scanning the QR code, confirming commencement and logging of task information are authorised through biometric identification. All the steps and results are stored as is known in the art for future reference. This is depicted in figure 4.

[0058] It is envisaged that the app described herein will be convenient to use in many industries including, specifically, the mining industry. The app will ensure recordal of each step and authorisation of following steps to enhance compliance with statutes and rules / regulations. Work done and recommendations made by a service provider will be recorded and easilyavailable. The app will ensure maintenance of accurate and timely inspection and maintenance records. The app will reduce inefficiencies and reduce the risk of undetected non-compliance. Real-time reporting when using the app will increase safety standards. The app ensures and enhances integration of inspection and maintenance processes. Use of the app ensures quick access to information with a resultant impact on decision-making. The app obviates the need for and dependence on paper logs which makes data prone to errors and loss. The long-term storage of logbooks is inefficient and unreliable and is replaced by the app.

[0059] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, in this specification and in the drawings / representations, “WED” (Winding Engine Driver) is used an example. The app of course allows for any operator of equipment.

[0060] In addition use of the app will lead to the following advantages:

[0061] - Role-Based Access: Secure and user-specific functionality.

[0062] - Biometric Sign-Offs: Ensure accountability and compliance.

[0063] - QR Code Equipment Identification: Simplify and streamline inspections. - Modular Design: Scalable implementation for diverse operational needs.

[0064] - Transform Safety Practices.

[0065] - Faster information flow for permits, SLAM, and job procedures.

[0066] - Enhanced procedural correctness for job execution.

[0067] - Compliance Excellence.- Improved adherence to the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA) of 1996.

[0068] - Integration of best practices across operations.

[0069] - Operational Efficiency.

[0070] - Timely preventative maintenance practices.

[0071] - Enhanced accountability and transparency.

[0072] - Improved productivity.

[0073] - Reliability & security.

[0074] - Reliable Storage: Digitized, secure, and long-term information retention.

[0075] - Biometric Security: Safeguard information and validate user actions. - Mining Expertise: Designed with deep industry knowledge.

[0076] - Reliable Partnership: Trustworthy support for your digital transformation.

[0077] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the precise details as described herein. The invention could be implemented in many industries, not only the mining industry and the above embodiment is an example only. The specific steps described may be varied without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A compliance method comprising the steps of:creating a task request, on an online platform, for a task to be performed,specifying task requirements,receiving service provider information,accepting service provider information, andmaking available a task unlock code.

2. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which the request is created by a client.

3. A method as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the task requirements include procedural requirements.

4. A method as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the task unlock code allows a task to commence provided the client authorised commencement.

5. A method as claimed in claim 4 in which in authorising commencement, the client or operator confirms a method, process and / or equipment to be in an inspection mode.

6. A method as claimed in claim 5 in which the inspection mode includes confirmation that the method, process or equipment is safe for a service provider to perform the task.

7. A method as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the task includes an inspection of a method, process and / or equipment.

8. A compliance method comprising the steps of:- submitting, on an online platform, service provider information in response to a request, on the platform, for a task to be performed,- accepting the task,- using a task unlock code to commence the task.

9. A method as claimed in claim 8 in which the creation of a task request is authorised using biometric authentication.

10. A method as claimed in any one of claim 8 or 9 in which the submission of service provider information is authorised using biometric authentication.

11. A method as claimed in any one of the claim 8 to 10 in which task requirements include task information relating to any one or more of the group consisting of: the nature of the task, a start date, an end date, required skills level of a service provider, required qualifications of aservice provider, permits of a service provider, undertakings to be agreed by a service provider, statutory and / or regulatory provisions to be adhered to by a service provider.

12. A method as claimed in claim 11 in which the nature of the task includes the inspection of equipment or a process or a method.

13. A method as claimed in claim 12in which the equipment, process, or method are equipment, a process or a method used or practiced in an industry.

14. A method as claimed in claim 13 in which the industry includes the mining industry.

15. A method as claimed in any one of the claims 8 to 14 the step of accepting the task includes confirmation of any one or more of the group consisting of: a start date, an end date, possession of the required skills level of the service provider, possession of the required qualifications of the service provider, existence and validity of permits of the service provider, agreement with undertakings specified, undertaking to comply with statutory and / or regulatory provisions.

16. A method as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 15 in which the task unlock code is made available in close proximity of a location where a task is to be performed.

17. A method as claimed in any one of the claims 8 to 15 in which the task unlock code is an electronically discernible code.

18. A method as claimed in any one of the claims 8 to 16 in which the steps performed by a client and service provider are stored on a storage means.

19. A method as claimed in claim 18 in which the client confirms that a task may commence.

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