Overview
The operational procedures for the tailings storage facility (TSF) and mine water storage must include provisions for continuous surveillance, which entails regular inspections, monitoring, and evaluations, along with thorough documentation. In Queensland, regulated structures are required to undergo an annual inspection and a dam safety review conducted by a suitably qualified and experienced engineer prior to the onset of the wet season. According to the Australian National Committee on Large Dams (ANCOLD) guidelines, TSF owners are recommended to perform a comprehensive dam safety inspection upon initial filling of the dam. Subsequent inspections should occur every two to five years, based on the facility's hazard rating, with annual intermediate inspections to ensure ongoing safety and compliance.
Solution
In response to dam safety requirements, GeoTails has undertaken numerous dam safety inspections to support dam owners in maintaining the safety and operational serviceability of their regulated dams. These comprehensive reviews encompass a range of critical elements essential for dam safety, using both visual inspections and analysis of instrumentation data to provide a thorough assessment.
Key areas covered in the reviews include:
• Structural Assessment: Evaluating the integrity of the regulated structures, focusing on embankment foundations, batters, crests, and overall storage embankments to identify any potential issues that could affect stability and performance.
• Hydraulic Performance: Assessing the hydraulic performance of the dam by reviewing available storage capacity relative to containment requirements, including process inputs and regulatory freeboard. Additionally, spillway discharge capacity and surface drainage structures are reviewed to ensure effective water management, particularly during high-flow events.
• Operational Management: Reviewing the operational management manual to ensure compliance with industry best practices and verifying the hazard classification of the dam. This ensures that the dam’s operations align with regulatory standards and risk mitigation strategies.
The findings from these annual dam safety reviews are compiled into detailed reports that include observations, analytical results, and actionable recommendations. These reports also provide the necessary regulatory certifications to demonstrate compliance with safety standards and guidelines, supporting dam owners in maintaining the highest level of safety and operational integrity.
Client
Multiple Projects
Location
Various
Date
Ongoing
