Strata Worldwide provides solutions to the mining industry such as proximity detection and collision avoidance systems, underground communications, remote monitoring and automation systems, emergency refuge shelters and breathing-air apparatus, and ground control and roof support products.

It officially launched its Canadian regional division in September 2020. The company stated that the new partnership will provide an ‘unparalleled resource' in supporting its growth into the Canadian market.

NORCAT, previously known as the Northern Centre for Advanced Technology, is a not-for-profit technology and innovation centre that provides programmes, resources and services with the aim of improving technology adoption, productivity and safety in various skilled labour industries, including mining.

The NORCAT Underground Centre is an operating underground mine. It was developed to provide practical, hands-on training for workers new to the mining industry, as well as an authentic environment for its partner companies to develop, test and demonstrate their technologies.

Ian Cadieux, business development manager, Canada at Strata Worldwide, said: "Strata is very proud to be partnering with NORCAT at their Underground Centre. Since the purpose of this operation is to support the mining industry and enhance worker safety, Strata's differentiated, safety-related product offerings are ideal additions to the facility."

To date, Strata has installed its Level 9-compliant hard rock proximity detection and collision avoidance system onto a load-haul-dump (LHD) machine and a light duty personnel carrier at the facility. According to the company, these installations will demonstrate the accident prevention safety features of the system, and will also be used to train future miners on working with proximity detection system (PDS) technology.

In addition, Strata has CSE Corp's long-duration self-contained-self-rescuer (SCSR) units available on-site, noting that these are the smallest belt-worn, one-hour SCSR units available on the market.

Carole Charron, assistant manager, operations and technology testing at the NORCAT Underground Centre, commented: "We are proud to welcome Strata Worldwide to Canada and be home to their first Canadian office. They have an impressive product line, and we're looking forward to sharing it with the global mining industry. Technology is changing the way we mine, and for the best. Strata's products, like their hard rock proximity detection and collision avoidance systems, significantly increase the safety of mining operations. It is a valued addition to the vibrant mining technology cluster at the Underground Centre."

Other companies that have opened offices within the NORCAT Underground Centre this year include US robotics company Exyn Technologies in January and Canadian ventilation products developer Schauenburg Industries in May.