A guide to leading practice sustainable development in mining

As construction proceeds, it is important that an accurate record of all works is kept
in order to:
ensure the tailings storage facility was constructed by a competent
contractor, with an appropriate level of supervision and quality
control of construction materials and techniques to show they were
in accordance with the design drawings and specifications.
provide a detailed record and description of geo-technically critical
aspects such as the preparation of foundations, treatment of cracks
in key and cut-off trenches, or the compaction of backfill around
outlet works. This record is assists in the design and construction
of remedial works if any post-construction issues occur.
provide as-constructed drawings that:
– provide an accurate representation of the detailed construction works,
particularly where design changes may have occurred during construction;
– assist in improved designs for further stages;
– provide details and dimensions for remedial works so that these
do not impact the integrity of existing structures; and
– provide details for back-analyses should these be required.
Water Management
Introduction
Mine management needs to take into account the following water considerations in
resource development and design
Water supply – identification and quantification.
Impacts of water abstraction/diversion on local water resources/users.
Government approvals.
Water supply, storage and treatment (design and construction).
Dust suppression and dewatering discharge.
Waste water disposal.
Site stormwater management.
It is essential that extensive investigations are carried out during the development
stage to ensure water management is integrated into the overall management
system of the mining operation. Clearly the mine will need sufficient water for the
mining operation including dust suppression, equipment needs, washing, potable,
sanitation etc. More significantly, given the considerable demand for water is in the
processing stage. A rule of thumb for gold mining suggests that one tonne of ore
processed requires one tonne of water. If a mine processes 2 million tonnes a year,
which is not a large mill, then the water make required is very substantial. The Cadia
Valley operations provide an example of managing the scarce water resource and
balancing the mine’s demands with competing demands from other users.
A GUIDE TO LEADING PRACTICE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN MINING 83