AMSZ technical visit to Enhance Tailings Safety & Environmental Protection
The Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ) is taking a proactive approach to ensure the safety and environmental protection of Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFs) in Zimbabwe.
In an effort to educate its membership on the technical requirements for building a new TSF, the AMSZ will conduct a technical visit at the Mimosa TSF facility phase 4 on Thursday the 13th of July 2023.
TSFs are reservoirs that store mine tailings, which are the fine-grained waste materials produced during the processing of ore or coal. Improper storage of these tailings can lead to serious safety, health, and environmental hazards. The AMSZ recognizes the importance of proper tailings storage and is committed to equipping stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and skills to mitigate these risks.
AMSZ President Gabriel Mwale highlighted the two presentations that will be given during the visit, focused on survey requirements for building a new tailings storage facility and constructing a penstock for the new TSF before commissioning.
“We will have two presentations. We are going to discuss the Survey requirements for building a new Tailings storage facility. What are the survey controls? Building penstock for the new TSF before commissioning. The building of new walls. New rains and the citing of important works, ” Mwale said.
Mwale emphasized the significance of the technical visit, stating that it will help stakeholders understand the requirements for establishing a proper storage facility for tailings. By providing information and discussing topics such as survey controls for building a new TSF and the construction of penstock, the AMSZ aims to reduce potential hazards and ensure the safety of workers and the environment.
The first presentation will delve into the survey requirements for building a new TSF, specifically focusing on the necessary survey controls. This session will provide valuable insights into the precise measurements and techniques required to ensure the proper construction of a safe and efficient tailings storage facility.
The second presentation will address the building of a penstock for the new TSF before commissioning. Participants will learn about the construction of new walls and the importance of accommodating rainfall and other environmental factors. Siting important works will also be discussed, highlighting the critical considerations that must be made during the planning and construction phase of the TSF.
This will be the Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ)’s second technical visit this year as the Association moves to demonstrate its commitment to promoting responsible mining practices.