Uralkali has started a test production of a mines personnel positioning system. The system incorporates special hardware and software.

The first stage includes the implementation of the scheme to monitor the descent and location of miners. Before descent into the mine, everyone is provided with a personal RFID tag, embedded into their worklight radio units. Special reading devices in the mine automatically recognize the numbers of the RFID tags and transfer the location information and movement routes of all of the personnel to the operator online. The second stage incorporates the detailed division of the mine field into the work areas.

Eduard Smirnov, the First Deputy Technical Director of Mining Operations of Uralkali, said:

- The positioning system improves industrial safety by means of obtaining operational information of personnel locations and movements. Furthermore, the movement analysis enables us to put operating procedures into force more effectively.

The introduction of the positioning system is scheduled to be completed in 3Q 2015, and 4,300 RFID tags will be used. The system will cost approximately RUB 100 million.

Uralkali (www.uralkali.com) is one of the world's largest potash producers and exporters. The Company's assets consist of 5 mines and 7 ore-treatment mills situated in the towns of Berezniki and Solikamsk (Perm Region, Russia). Uralkali employs ca. 11,000 people (in the main production unit). Uralkali's shares and GDRs are traded on the Moscow Exchange and London Stock Exchange, respectively.

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