Conference Proceedings
Iron Ore and Open Pit Operators Conference Proceeding 2026
Conference Proceedings
Iron Ore and Open Pit Operators Conference Proceeding 2026
A geotechnical reconciliation journey implementing a risk-based framework utilising unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry-based mapping
Geotechnical reconciliation is a critical practice in open pit mining, serving as an execution foundation for ensuring operational pit slope stability. This is accomplished through the adoption of the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) strategy, wherein open pit geotechnical design assumptions are rigorously validated against actual as-mined conditions, and necessary design adjustments are made to mitigate slope stability risks and enhance operational efficiency. Within this framework, the structural geology plays a pivotal role in determining the complexity of the encountered field conditions. BHP WAIO operations in the Eastern Pilbara region comprise three major hubs, that are geographically widespread consisting of over 50 concurrently mined cutbacks and pits between 100 m to over 300 m final depth. The geotechnical reconciliation framework is an enabler to plan, schedule and execute this process since it is physically impractical to perform detailed mapping of all these exposed walls at the scale of the WAIO operations. A geotechnical reconciliation framework based on the main input parameters such as risk-based pit or pushback design residual risk rating and structural framework complexity provides the underpinning framework to determine the type of face mapping to be utilised. Various levels of face mapping are outlined commensurate with the level of geotechnical detail required. This reconciliation framework forms the basis for the planned face mapping schedule utilising UAV photogrammetry techniques of mined temporary and final pit walls. This paper will also outline the routine escalation process based on either structural or stratigraphic non-compliance outcomes. A Context-Purpose-Outcome-Resources-Timing-Safety (CPORTS) format is utilised to enable this geotechnical mapping is incorporated into the short-term tactical geology model updates to improve the main structural and stratigraphic model confidence for stability assessment. Since implementing this reconciliation mapping framework, a number of significant economic and/or safety benefits have been realised based on timely, proactive decisions. Case histories related to these improvements are presented using 2D and 3D slope stability modelling software to evaluate stability.
Contributor(s):
R C N Botha, C J McDiarmid, J Dube and M Kostadinovski
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- Published: 2026
- Pages: 14
- PDF Size: 5.356 Mb.
- Unique ID: P-05435-F0G9S8