Artificial Intelligence in Mining

The mining industry has long faced hazardous work conditions, labor-intensive tasks, and operational inefficiencies. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) offer new possibilities to improve safety, productivity, and sustainability. This chapter examines how AI supports miners through hazard detection, predictive maintenance, and resource optimization. AI tools such as smart sensors, autonomous vehicles, and wearable devices help reduce risks and strengthen decision-making. AI-based simulations and training programs also prepare workers for complex situations without exposing them to danger. By integrating AI, mining companies can improve worker safety, streamline resource extraction, and adopt more sustainable practices. The chapter concludes by addressing challenges such as ethical issues, high implementation costs, and the need for worker reskilling, while emphasizing AI's potential to reshape the future role of human workers in mining.