What causes slope failures in open-pit mines?

Slope failures in open-pit mines are primarily caused by the instability of pit walls, which is influenced by the strength of the rock mass and the specific geometry of the pit.1

As mines deepen, the pressure on wall stability increases. While increasing the slope angle can reduce stripping costs and improve ore recovery, it significantly raises the risk of both small and large-scale slides, which can involve millions of tons of material.1

To mitigate these risks, mining operations must implement rigorous slope-stability programs. These programs analyze several critical factors to ensure safe design:
* Structural data: Assessing the geological composition and integrity of the rock mass.1
* Hydrogeologic information: Monitoring water conditions that can affect stability.1
* Operational practices: Managing activities such as blasting, which can impact the structural integrity of the benches and walls.1

Maintaining the correct balance between economic efficiency and safety is essential, as the stability of individual benches and overall pit walls is a fundamental requirement for safe mining operations.1