DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/708_21
		  
		  
		  
		  Cite As:
		  Pothitos, F & Li, T 2007, 'Slope Design Criteria for Large Open Pits - Case Study', in Y Potvin (ed.), 
Slope Stability 2007: Proceedings of the 2007 International Symposium on Rock Slope Stability in Open Pit Mining and Civil Engineering, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 341-352, 
https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/708_21	
		  	
		  
		  
		  
		  
    
          
		  
		  
		  Abstract:
		  
		  
		  
		  The selection of design criteria for large open pits is an area of ongoing importance and one which must 
continually be reviewed and improved upon during the lifetime of a mine project.  Not only do the design 
criteria directly impact upon the business case [and longevity] of a mine project but also the safety related 
geotechnical issues, which must be planned for during the design process.  The case study presented, is used 
to illustrate the criteria and considerations of a large open pit design from an operational perspective. A 
consistent message is required to be communicated at all stages and levels involving operators, operational 
engineers, designers and management. This paper presents concepts to help interpret what percentage of pit 
slope failure is acceptable and the resources required to implement varying inter-ramp slope angles with a 
certain percentage of planned failure. 
		  
		  
		  
		  
		  
		  
		  
		  
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			  Slope Design Criteria for Large Open Pits ― Case Study F. Pothitos, T. Li
		  	
			  352 Slope Stability 2007, Perth, Australia