Mining Industry 5.0: A 6S Framework for Sustainable and Human-Centric Mining Systems

The mining industry is facing increasing pressure to improve operational safety, environmental performance, and resource efficiency while adapting to rapid technological change. In this context, the concept of Mining Industry 5.0 is emerging as an extension of Industry 4.0, promoting the integration of human-centric approaches with advanced digital technologies in mining systems. This paper proposes a 6S framework—Safety, Security, Sustainability, Sensitivity, Service, and Smartness—conceptualized as a Cyber-Physical-Social Systems (CPSS)-based model that co-optimizes these six dimensions and supports adaptive and human-centric mining operations across the entire value chain. The study is based on a structured literature review and a comparative analysis of digital transformation practices in related sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, and energy, to identify solutions applicable to mining environments. The key enabling technologies, including artificial intelligence, digital twins, cyber-physical systems, and intelligent automation, are evaluated as particularly relevant to mining operations for improving workplace safety, process efficiency, and environmental management. The paper addresses challenges, including high investment costs, limited digital competencies, data interoperability issues, and cybersecurity concerns in mining practice. The results support the development of a roadmap for Mining Industry 5.0 by integrating the proposed 6S framework with technical and organizational operations in the mining sector.