Mine Planning and Design

Geological Modeling and Resource Estimation

• Understanding the principles of geological modeling, including wireframing, block modeling, and geostatistical analysis (kriging, inverse distance weighting).
• Applying resource estimation techniques to calculate ore reserves and mineral resources accurately, complying with industry standards (e.g., JORC, NI 43-101).
• Interpreting geological data (drill hole logs, geophysical surveys) to create 3D models of ore bodies and surrounding rock formations.
• Assessing uncertainty in resource estimates using simulation techniques and sensitivity analysis.

Mine Layout and Access Design

• Designing optimal mine layouts based on ore body geometry, geotechnical conditions, and production requirements.
• Planning access development, including shafts, ramps, and declines, considering factors such as ventilation, drainage, and haulage.
• Evaluating different mining methods (e.g., sublevel stoping, cut-and-fill, block caving) to determine the most suitable method for a specific ore body.
• Integrating mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Datamine) to create detailed mine plans and schedules.

Production Scheduling and Optimization

• Developing realistic production schedules that maximize ore extraction while minimizing waste dilution.
• Optimizing mine operations using linear programming and other mathematical optimization techniques.
• Considering equipment availability, manpower constraints, and material handling logistics in production scheduling.
• Forecasting production rates, costs, and revenues over the mine life.

Drilling and Blasting

Drill Pattern Design and Optimization

• Designing efficient drill patterns to achieve optimal fragmentation and minimize blasting costs.
• Calculating burden, spacing, and stemming based on rock properties, explosive characteristics, and desired fragmentation.
• Applying blasting simulation software to predict blast outcomes and optimize blast designs.
• Considering the impact of drilling and blasting on ground stability and nearby structures.

Explosives Handling and Storage

• Implementing safe procedures for handling, storing, and transporting explosives in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Selecting appropriate explosives (e.g., ANFO, emulsions, dynamites) based on rock properties and blasting conditions.
• Understanding the chemical properties and safety characteristics of different types of explosives.
• Performing quality control checks on explosives to ensure proper performance.

Blast Monitoring and Analysis

• Monitoring blast vibrations and air overpressure to assess the impact of blasting on the surrounding environment.
• Analyzing blast results to identify areas for improvement and optimize future blast designs.
• Using seismographs and other monitoring equipment to measure ground vibrations.
• Implementing corrective actions to mitigate excessive vibrations and air overpressure.

Ground Control and Rock Mechanics

Rock Mass Characterization

• Classifying rock masses using systems such as RMR (Rock Mass Rating), Q-system, and GSI (Geological Strength Index).
• Determining rock strength, deformation modulus, and other rock properties through laboratory testing and field measurements.
• Mapping geological structures (faults, joints, bedding planes) to assess their impact on ground stability.
• Identifying potential ground control hazards, such as rock bursts and slope instability.

Ground Support Design and Implementation

• Designing appropriate ground support systems based on rock mass conditions and excavation geometry.
• Selecting suitable ground support materials, including rock bolts, cable bolts, shotcrete, and wire mesh.
• Installing ground support systems according to industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Monitoring ground deformation to assess the effectiveness of ground support systems.

Slope Stability Analysis

• Analyzing slope stability using limit equilibrium methods and finite element analysis.
• Designing slope stabilization measures, such as retaining walls, soil nailing, and drainage systems.
• Monitoring slope movement using inclinometers, extensometers, and other instrumentation.
• Implementing emergency response plans for slope failures.

Ventilation and Air Quality Control

Ventilation System Design

• Designing ventilation systems to provide adequate airflow for workers and equipment.
• Calculating ventilation requirements based on the number of workers, equipment horsepower, and methane emissions.
• Selecting appropriate ventilation fans and ductwork to achieve desired airflow rates.
• Minimizing pressure losses in ventilation systems through efficient duct design and fan selection.

Air Quality Monitoring and Control

• Monitoring air quality to ensure compliance with regulatory standards for dust, gases, and other pollutants.
• Implementing dust control measures, such as water sprays, ventilation, and enclosed equipment.
• Controlling methane emissions through degassing and ventilation.
• Using gas detectors and alarms to warn workers of hazardous air conditions.

Emergency Ventilation Systems

• Designing emergency ventilation systems to provide fresh air in case of fire or other emergencies.
• Installing backup power supplies for ventilation fans to ensure continuous operation during power outages.
• Developing emergency response plans for ventilation system failures.
• Conducting regular drills to familiarize workers with emergency ventilation procedures.

Mine Safety and Health

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

• Identifying potential hazards in underground mining operations, such as falls of ground, equipment accidents, and exposure to toxic substances.
• Conducting risk assessments to evaluate the likelihood and severity of potential hazards.
• Implementing control measures to eliminate or mitigate identified hazards.
• Developing safety procedures and training programs to ensure workers are aware of potential hazards and control measures.

Emergency Response Planning

• Developing comprehensive emergency response plans for various types of emergencies, such as fires, explosions, and collapses.
• Establishing communication protocols and evacuation procedures.
• Training workers in emergency response procedures.
• Conducting regular emergency drills to test the effectiveness of emergency response plans.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Selecting appropriate PPE for different mining tasks, such as hard hats, safety glasses, respirators, and hearing protection.
• Ensuring that workers are properly trained in the use and maintenance of PPE.
• Enforcing the use of PPE in all areas where it is required.
• Conducting regular inspections of PPE to ensure it is in good working condition.

Mine Surveying and Mapping

Underground Surveying Techniques

• Applying traditional surveying methods, such as traversing and leveling, to establish control points and map underground workings.
• Using modern surveying equipment, such as total stations and GPS, to collect accurate survey data.
• Conducting gyro surveying to determine the orientation of underground workings.
• Performing laser scanning to create 3D models of underground environments.

Mine Mapping and Drafting

• Creating detailed mine maps that show the location of underground workings, geological features, and mine infrastructure.
• Using CAD software to draft mine maps and plans.
• Maintaining accurate records of mine surveys and maps.
• Updating mine maps regularly to reflect changes in mine geometry.

Volume Calculations and Ore Tracking

• Calculating volumes of excavated material using surveying data and software.
• Tracking ore production and waste removal.
• Reconciling production data with survey data to ensure accurate material accounting.
• Using mine planning software to optimize ore extraction and minimize waste dilution.