Why Tailing Storage Facilities Demand a Fresh Risk Management Approach
Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFs) are the backbone of responsible mining operations, holding the processed by-products of extraction. However, these critical sites face ongoing structural challenges—ranging from fluctuating water levels to evolving ground conditions—that can jeopardize their integrity. To pre-empt such risks, one mining company partnered with SkyGeo and employed InSAR data and technology, leveraging real-time insights to reinforce both safety and cost efficiency.
From Ground-Based Surveys to Satellite Precision
InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) interpretation transforms TSF monitoring by analyzing satellite-generated data at the millimeter scale. This approach liberates operations from the constraints of on-site equipment. Through continuous surveillance, the team accessed uninterrupted, hyper-accurate insights—tracking displacement patterns tied to water-level fluctuations and local ground conditions.
Turning Data into Actionable Intelligence
Raw data can overwhelm without the right tools for interpretation. With the Antares platform from SkyGeo, complex InSAR outputs were converted into intuitive visuals, enabling engineers and field teams to swiftly grasp underlying trends. A “traffic light” alert system provided a clear call to action, ensuring that even subtle warning signs translated into prompt, targeted interventions.
Proactive Stability Through Predictive Analytics
Historical data layered with real-time monitoring formed predictive models that identified emerging instability before it posed a tangible threat. This foresight allowed the client to pre-empt issues—strengthening embankments, adjusting water management strategies, and forestalling the costly consequences of a potential breach.
Tangible Financial and Safety Gains
In addition to bolstering safety, adopting real-time InSAR monitoring and interpretation delivered quantifiable business benefits:
Cost Reduction of 30%: By minimizing the need for labor-intensive, on-site inspections, the company trimmed operational monitoring costs. The shift to satellite insights unlocked opportunities to allocate resources more strategically.
Lower Risk of Structural Failures by 40%: Early detection of subtle ground movements meant acting before cracks widened or embankments weakened. This preventive approach reduced the likelihood of structural issues and ensuing financial or reputational damage.
Meeting Global Standards for Sustainable Operations
Beyond operational improvements, the company’s use of InSAR-supported risk management aligned them with evolving global guidelines like the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM). By demonstrating proactive stewardship and adhering to rigorous safety benchmarks, the client reinforced its credibility and maintained a strong social license to operate.
