TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS Looking ahead, the changes to the design and operation of tailings facilities will certainly leverage off the advancements in technology, especially for the monitoring of key indicators and the performance of assets
There has been a noticeable increase in awareness around tailings dams, owing mostly to the tragic disasters caused by their collapsing, and the subsequent social activism, says software company IsoMetrix sustainability executive head Robin Bolton.
This has generated increased research into the risks associated with these facilities, from fund managers, investors and international mining organisations, to the mining operators, he adds.
“What this has created is a change in the risk appetite and transparency of information by tailings operators. “Looking ahead, the changes to the design and operation of tailings facilities will certainly leverage off the advancements in technology, especially for the monitoring of key indicators and the performance of assets.”
Therefore, Bolton expects that global design and operational standards will guide operators while countries’ legislation tightens up to ensure that the risks and impacts of dam collapses are minimised, appropriately managed and clearly reported on, he states.
While the generation of mine waste in various forms is as old as mining itself, a better and broader understanding of environmental and social issues, together with the advancement of mine waste storage designs, has generally reduced the level and severity of the effects of mine waste, highlights Bolton.
He adds that there are some exceptions, as some countries lack adequate legislation. Moreover, certain operators flout standards and disregard any environmental and social impacts.
The effects of poor historical practices may materialise only in the future and will only be exacerbated by current challenges, says Bolton.
These challenges include climate change – especially in terms of the frequency and volume of rainfall – societal acceptance of mining operations, including the heretofore inadequate dissemination of real benefits for local communities, the management of environmental, social and related risks, as well as the theft and vandalism of tailings-related equipment.
“In mitigating these challenges, there has to be a tighter monitoring of new and historical tailings facilities by taking advantage of monitoring technology apparatus, such as electronic devices, the Internet of Things and management systems,” he says.
This also includes other factors, such as new deposition techniques leading to more stable, less polluting facilities, accurate and closely managed water balances, designing for the rainfall changes associated with climate change, using risk and control libraries to fully understand all the risks involved and the critical controls that need to be monitored.
Further, surface and groundwater pollution are still some of the biggest risks. Bolton explains that tailings facilities are often constructed in valleys, thereby affecting watercourses, either reducing flow or spreading contamination.
If seepage is toxic and not contained, then groundwater – which may be a source of drinking water – will become contaminated, he says.
“Other environmental impacts include the deterioration of air quality, owing to dust; sterilisation of fertile topsoils if they are not removed, stockpiled and managed correctly; loss of vegetation and biodiversity; and an increase in alien vegetation.”
Bolton highlights the advancements IsoMetrix has noticed in the industry. These include increased attention to mine waste storage facilities, using technology for inspections and surveys, research into safer and less water intensive deposition techniques, a better understanding of the key indicators to be monitored, and the installation of devices for monitoring movements and seismic activities.
He also comments on how a company can leverage technology for the monitoring and management of tailings facilities.
“For example, there are devices for measuring flow rates, pressures, movements and stability; asset performance, such as pumps; and water qualities.
“The data from these devices should feed into a management system to help with analysis; notify responsible personnel when limits, thresholds or rules are exceeded; and act as an early warning system.
Mine waste storage facilities should be seen in terms of what opportunities they potentially can create, especially upon closure, instead of merely viewing them as a waste dump, concludes Bolton.