Buildings are very important when it comes to infrastructure in mine sites. These buildings serve different purposes to ensure that workers on sites are comfortable enough and storage of equipment is secure. Modular technology can be very handy when it comes mining site buildings. Since the structures come in pieces from the factory and then, the pieces are joined once the appropriate location on the site of work is established; the building technology allows easy dismantling once work on site is completed.
Modular structures can be found in two distinct types. These are the permanent modular construction and the relocatable building:
The permanent modular construction pieces are made in a safe and controlled factory setting then; the modules are assembled at the construction site. These types of structures can be integrated into site built projects or they can just stand on their own.
Relocatable modular buildings on the other hand are fully or partially completed in the manufacturing site using the modular construction process. Codes and state regulations with regard to construction are also put in place when these structures are being constructed. Relocatables can be reused and repurposed and they serve as construction site offices or any other need where a temporary structure is needed.
Modular construction has proven to offer a range of advantages according to research done by specialists. Unlike the normal methods of construction, modular buildings are created in such a way that the modular plant minimizes on waste produced in the whole construction process. At the same time, if there is any waste produced then, this is recycled and a module is made out of it.
There is also no risk of materials being stolen as they are all transported to the manufacturing site. Weather does not affect the state of materials used for the modular buildings because it is kept indoors in a conducive environment.
Just like the traditional form of constructing a building, strict regulations are also put in when coming up with these structures. Factory inspections have to be carried out by the appropriate regulating bodies to ensure that the right measures are put in place for quality structures.
Inspections also have to be done on site when the assembling of the parts is being made to ensure that risks are avoided. One of the key benefits of modular or prefabricated buildings is the fact that they are not restricted by various aspects such as weather. They take a much shorter time to construct because factories that construct such buildings have all key personnel for building requirements.
Even bathrooms can be prefabricated. According to the Marketing and Sales Manager of Domczar a Manufacturer of prefabricated bathrooms, the whole idea of prefabricated bathrooms is the future of construction. It not only saves time and money but also one does not have to worry about labor or materials. This makes it convenient for individuals who need structures quickly and they are relevant for areas which have weather restrictions especially on traditional modes of construction.
As noted earlier, there are very many inspections that go into place with the construction of modular buildings especially if they are permanent. This has enabled such buildings to be very safe to use.
Read: Improving Mine Site Safety with LED Lighting Technology
Energy efficiency
The world is constantly changing with almost everything going digital. Modular buildings for mining sites have not been left behind on this. Most of them are constructed in such a way that they conserve energy and they can filter air. They can incorporate LED lighting and sustainability harvested wood.
According to experts at VARIO-BAU Fertighaus GesmbH in Germany, building low-energy or passive houses really helps reducing the future energy consumption, especially in areas which need to be heated or cooled during the year. By having the right thermal insulation one can keep the heat out of a house just with an air conditioner with very low power consumption.
