Real-time monitoring of cut slopes and the importance of identifying the mode of failure

Authors: Pope, DR; Kennedy, GD; Smith, AG Paper is not available for download Contact Us

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1508_50_Pope

Cite As:
Pope, DR, Kennedy, GD & Smith, AG 2015, 'Real-time monitoring of cut slopes and the importance of identifying the mode of failure', in PM Dight (ed.), FMGM 2015: Proceedings of the Ninth Symposium on Field Measurements in Geomechanics, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 693-704, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1508_50_Pope



Abstract:
Real-time monitoring comprising radar and prism monitoring can be used in operational environments to identify and manage risk in unstable zones of cut slopes. The paper presents a number of case studies of large failures which have been actively managed through real-time monitoring to control risk while allowing continued mining. A discussion of the mode of failure for each case study is provided based on monitoring data and observations. The importance of the understanding of the mode of failure for effectively managing risk in post failure recovery is highlighted. Conclusions are made on the differing behaviour with respect to the size of failure, peak velocity and evacuation time prior to failure for each observed failure mode. Appropriate alarm triggers are discussed for both pre-failure and post-failure based on back analyses of the failures. The limitations to the approach are discussed and the need is stressed for diligent observation, communication and implementation of additional controls.

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