Probabilistic design for underground and open pit mines

Purpose and goal:

The aim of the project has been to evaluate the potential for, and the possibilities of, using probabilistic design methods for mines. The specific objective has been to describe mining specific issues and conditions suitable for probabilistic analysis. Based on the result from a literature study and bench-mark, of probabilistic design and risk-based decision making, mainly in infrastructure and mining, commonalities and mining applications have been identified.

Expected results and effects:

The project results have shown that underground mines have the greatest need for the development of probabilistic design methods. As there are few published cases concerning probabilistic analysis and risk-based decision making for underground mines, there is a great potential to develop this area. Furthermore, after the pre-study end date, the mining companies have requested additional presentations for all those working with rock technology and rock mechanics within the mines and have been positive about a full-scale application in risk-based design.

Approach and implementation:

The project has been carried out divided into four different work packages. The content of those work packages has been project coordination, literature study and benchmark, exemplification of mining specific issues suitable for probabilistic analysis as well as reporting and external communication. Project coordination and reporting have been carried out throughout the course of the project. Performers have been both women and men.