Preparedness Guide: Geotechnical Failures

Instability in the rock surrounding mine excavations threatens the safety of workers and equipment in the mine. Counteracting these threats requires an understanding of the causes of instability and designing measures that will minimize the issues.

Unlike civil excavations which emphasizes reliability and long-term performance of the design, mining excavations are typically constructed to lower levels of stability. This is in recognition of the shorter operating life span of mines, and the high level of monitoring (in terms of accuracy and frequency) available at a mine. This approach is fully recognised both by the mining industry and by the regulatory authorities. However, the risk tolerance for this approach may vary between companies and between mining jurisdictions.

• How can these risks be mitigated?
• How can understanding the causes of instability help companies minimize safety and social impacts?
• What are ways for them to limit their environmental and regulatory consequences as well as business interruptions?

This guide introduces various types of instability, the impact of uncontrolled instability across social, economic, environmental and regulatory areas. With examples of notable geotechnical losses spanning from 1999 to 2022, the guide also highlights best practices relating to geotechnical design and construction. Key considerations for condition monitoring to effectively mitigate and minimize geotechnical risk exposures are also captured.

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