Integration of ‘safe closure’ into the selection of a new tailings storage facility

Authors: Penman, J; Sanders, J Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2515_69

Cite As:
Penman, J & Sanders, J 2025, 'Integration of ‘safe closure’ into the selection of a new tailings storage facility', in S Knutsson, AB Fourie & M Tibbett (eds), Mine Closure 2025: Proceedings of the 18th International Conference on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-9, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2515_69



Abstract:
The Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) requires demonstration that all feasible sites, technologies and strategies for tailings management have been considered for a new tailings storage facility (TSF) with the goal of selecting an alternative that minimises risks to people and the environment throughout the tailings facility life cycle. To meet this goal, a new TSF will be required to demonstrate ‘safe closure’, which the GISTM defines as not posing ongoing material risks to people or the environment. At a concept study stage, it can be difficult to determine what is likely to constitute a ‘material’ risk at closure; however, a robust risk assessment of credible failure modes should be able to factor in variabilities and uncertainties which could become material over the facility life cycle. Importantly, a robust risk assessment at the concept stage allows for a risk-informed design to be implemented in subsequent study stages. This paper presents a synthesis of the authors’ experience in applying risk assessment at the concept design stage and how the outcomes can be integrated into a multi-criteria alternatives assessment framework for selecting a preferred tailings management alternative consistent with the International Council on Mining & Metals (ICMM) Tailings Management: Good Practice Guide.

Keywords: tailings, risk assessment, safe closure, GISTM, multi-criteria alternatives assessment

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