Guides

A User's Guide for the Bplane, Bstepp, and Bwedge Computer Programs (PDF, 2108 KB, 2007-03)
This user's guide covers the operation of a suite of three computer programs - Bplane, Bstepp, and Bwedge. These programs can be used to evaluate the potential for plane shear, step-path, and wedge failures along the crest of a slope bench. The theoretical basis, application, and operation of these programs are described.

Models

Applications of the Point Estimation Method for Stochastic Rock Slope Engineering (PDF, 1713 KB, 2004)
The point estimation method is a computationally efficient approach for estimating the probability of sliding. This method expedites slope stability simulation routines used by NIOSH software to stochastically describe rock slope behavior and assist the engineer in designing catch benches for large rock slopes. Enhanced bench design translates into increased operational efficiency and safer working conditions in open pit mines and quarries.

Computer Modeling of Catch Benches to Mitigate Rockfall Hazards in Open Pit Mines (PDF, 625 KB, 2000)
A computer analysis of bench stability was developed to account for multiple occurrences of potential slope-failure modes in discontinuous rock masses. Bench-scale plane shears and tetrahedral wedges are simulated and stochastically analyzed to estimate the probability of retaining specified catch-bench widths.

Measurement & analysis

Analysis of Practical Ground Control Issues in Highwall Mining (PDF, 335 KB, 2004-08)
Some of the issues discussed in this article include highwall stability, reasons for early pull out of highwall miner holes, and geotechnical engineering and planning factors and operating practices to improve highwall stability and minimize the risk of a trapped highwall miner.

Analysis of Safety Aspects and Mining Practices for Effective Ground Control in Surface Mining (PDF, 248 KB, 2000-08)
A study was conducted to determine the causes of slope failure and highwall/spoilbank failure and included: a review of accident statistics; a review of mining laws pertaining to surface mining; a literature review; and mine visits. The study emphasized surface mines in West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Applications of Ground-Based Radar to Mine Slope Monitoring (PDF, 1440 KB, 2004)
Several remote sensing technologies are being evaluated as tools to assess slope stability and monitor slopes for hazards. An interferometric radar device capable of detecting very small displacements on slopes has been assembled and tested.

Assessing and Monitoring Open Pit Mine Highwalls (PDF, 413 KB, 2001-08)
This paper introduces various warning signs of slope instability so operators are better able to recognize hazards. The most common slope monitoring equipment and practical methods of installation are discussed as well as the limitations of these systems.

Current Research on Slope Movement in Mines: Use of Hyperspectral Imagery (PDF, 2162 KB, 2000)
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is investigating various remote sensing technologies as possible tools to detect, monitor, and mitigate hazardous situations in surface mines that could lead to catastrophic slope failure. Promising technologies include a field-portable spectro-polarimetric imager and a stationary interferometric radar device.

Detecting Problems With Mine Slope Stability (PDF, 329 KB, 2002-08)
Slope stability accidents are one of the leading causes of fatalities at U.S. surface mining operations. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is conducting research to reduce the fatalities associated with slope failures. This paper discusses some of this research and presents potential new technologies for slope monitoring and design.

Case studies

Analysis of Bench Crest Performance at the Yellowstone Mine: A Case Study (PDF, 575 KB, 2004-05)
A case study is presented that relates statistical descriptions of joint sets to the distribution of local wedge failures along the crest of a catch bench at the Yellowstone Talc Mine.

Emerging Technologies and the Future of Geotechnical Instrumentation (PDF, 468 KB, 2001)
This paper discusses a) the results of a ground-based hyperspectral imaging tool used to map the geology of an open-pit mine highwall; and b) interferometric synthetic aperture radar and how it can be used in a variety of geotechnical situations. It is hopeful that these new developments will lead to better geotechnical monitoring and design in slope stability and other important areas of rock mechanics.

Engineering controls

Economics of Safety at Surface Mine Spoil Piles (PDF, 1833 KB, 2000-07)
It has been theorized that accidents associated with dumping operations might be reduced by short-dumping rather than edge-dumping, but many operators have been reluctant to use short-dumping because they believe it is less cost effective. To evaluate this perception, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reviewed the costs of various dumping methods at waste and spoil piles.

Evaluating Techniques for Monitoring Rock Falls and Slope Stability (PDF, 3017 KB, 2002)
Several remote-sensing technologies are being evaluated as tools to monitor slopes for hazards and to assess slope stability.

Ground Control Design for Highwall Mining (PDF, 199 KB, 2005)
Highwall stability remains a major concern during highwall mining. Geologic structure (hillseams) and pillar stability are the two major factors affecting highwall stability.

A Portable Spectro-Polarimetric Imager: Potential Mine Safety and Geologic Applications (PDF, 267 KB, 1999-03)
A significant risk factor in assessing and modeling potential catastrophic slope movement in open-pit mines is the presence of argillic alteration in host rocks. High-resolution hyperspectral imagery operating in the visible to shortwave infrared can be a useful tool for identifying and mapping potentially dangerous argillic zones.

Simplified Hyperspectral Imaging for Improved Geologic Mapping of Mine Slopes (PDF, 1865 KB, 2001)
A prototype portable hyperspectral imager was field tested at an open-pit mine as part of an investigation of remote sensing technologies for use in detecting and monitoring conditions in surface mines that could lead to catastrophic slope failure.

Video Motion Detection for Real-Time Hazard Warnings in Surface Mines (PDF, 1085 KB, 2004)
A surveillance system using low-cost video cameras and computer software from the security industry was tested for effectiveness in monitoring mine slopes and providing real-time warning of rock falls.