Improving safety with robotic cleaning at Nyrstar Netherlands

We are continuously looking for new and innovative ways to improve the safety of our workforce. At Nyrstar Budel in the Netherlands, we aim to introduce robotic technology to clean the train wagons that transport zinc concentrates to the facility each day.

Zinc concentrates contain hazardous CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic and/or reproduction) substances, which can pose serious health risks if inhaled or if they come into contact with the skin. Previously, operators used heavy air guns to manually clean the wagons – an uncomfortable, repetitive and high-risk task that exposed them to harmful dust.

By automating this process with robotic “cleaner robots”, operators in the field no longer need to carry out this physically demanding and hazardous work. In addition to improving safety, the robots achieve a higher standard of cleaning, reducing residual concentrate left behind. This minimises material losses, lowers disposal costs and improves overall operational efficiency.

The deployment of robotic cleaning technology reflects our continued commitment to innovation and safety and forms part of our broader strategy to leverage technology to create safer, more efficient workplaces across our global operations.