In a recent case study involving a digital solution for Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) surveillance, SRK Consulting, an independent international consulting practice working in the exploration, mining, environment, water, energy, and infrastructure industries, and Esri South Africa, a global leader in Geographic Information
Systems (GIS), show how data collection and analysis can be enhanced.
The Challenge
Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) surveillance involves the collection and analysis of data from eld inspections and instrumentation. An effective surveillance programme is essential to ensure the safe management of any tailings dam. The current practice on most South African TSFs is to measure, record, and process surveillance data manually. In these cases, the processing and interpretation of data are nonetheless prone to human error, and turnaround times are dependent on both the quality of data and the response times of individuals involved at each stage. The challenge, in this particular case study, was to overcome these limitations.
The Solution
The solution involved digitising the surveillance process and improving data quality using digital capturing methods with built-in validations. Automated processes for transfer, interpretation, and communication of data and results were introduced in order to reduce response times. Data storage was enhanced via the use of secure, managed servers. Data accessibility was also improved by using Web-based dashboards accessible to selected users.
Data anomalies could then automatically trigger alerts for prompt specific actions to be taken to safely manage or mitigate any suspected risk.
