3465 Automatic data selection, worker exclusion zones and an attempt to identify precursory activity in real time – routine and research domains in seismology at Sibanye-Stillwater Ltd.
Abstract
Underground mining in high rock-stress environments can induce unanticipated dynamic rockmass deformation, posing a serious risk to the workforce. Data collected by seismic networks is imperative for the design-as-you-mine process. Often an inappropriate assessment of the seismic hazard is done when unnecessary data is included in analytical techniques, particularly short-term time frames. Depending on the methodology or application of data analysis and interpretation, some of the information may not be relevant and even detract from the objective. By using the spatial event clusters associated with active workplaces to define the shape and size of the polygons for data selection for subsequent analysis, a problematic subjective component can be eliminated.
The mining of tabular reefs in South Africa, be they gold- or platinum group metals, is very extensive, and underground workplaces are often widespread. Production stoppages are very costly, especially for marginal mines, so there is just cause not to evacuate an entire operation’s workforce following the occurrence of a large mining-induced seismic event. A rationale based on the damaging peak particle velocities (PPV) of the past seismicity can exclude the unaffected underground personnel and allow a quick orderly withdrawal where required.
Micro-deformation may precede rockbursting which can occur on-shift close to the workface. A mine-wide array of geophones suitable for the accurate location and analysis of seismicity may not be able to detect these higher-frequency emissions.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ricardo Ferreira, Patrick Lenegan, Richard Masethe
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