Vale
The study was necessitated by the need to evaluate current water management practices at Vale Thompson underground mine in Thompson, Manitoba against Vale Normative Documents and Provincial Legislation.
The study was necessitated by evaluating current water management practices against Vale Normative Documents and Provincial Legislation, identifying potential hazards, and ensuring the mining operations align with best practices and regulatory standards.It aimed to identify potential hazards and ensure that mining operations align with best practices and regulatory standards. The study focused on enhancing the overall strategy for managing water within the mine, ensuring safety and compliance.
SCOPE
Through meticulous analysis, the project team compiled a comprehensive report that provided insights into the current state of water management at the mine. This report included an evaluation of existing practices, gap analysis results, and risk assessments along with mitigation plans. The study also detailed the water balance of the site, highlighting the dynamics of water inflows and outflows and evaluating the effectiveness of the dewatering system.
OUTCOME
The completion of the water management study led to several key outcomes. An updated underground water balance was established, revealing significant and increasing volumes of unaccounted-for surface water entering the mine. Based on these findings, the report recommended strategies to reduce the ingress of surface water to alleviate operational and safety challenges associated with excess water in the mine. Furthermore, a tailored water management training plan was developed for employees to enhance their understanding of water-related hazards, the operational capabilities of the mine’s dewatering system, and to ensure alignment with regulatory standards and best practices. This comprehensive approach has positioned the mine to effectively manage its water resources, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.