Risk assessment of blasting operations in open pit mines using FAHP method

M. Kiani¹, S.H. Hosseini¹, M. Taji², M. Gholinejad¹

¹Department of Mining Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

²Department of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, Shahroud Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahroud, Iran

Min. miner. depos. 2019, 13(3):76-86

https://doi.org/10.33271/mining13.03.076

Full text (PDF)

ABSTRACT

Purpose. In the mining blasting operation, fragmentation is the most important output. Fly rock, ground vibration, air blast, and environmental effects are detrimental effects of blasting operations. Identifying and ranking the risk of blasting operations is considered as the most important stage in project management.

Methods. In this research, the problem of identifying and ranking the factors constituting the risk in blasting operations is considered with the methodology of the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP). Criteria and sub-criteria have been determined based on historical research studies, field studies, and expert opinions for designing a hierarchical process.

Findings. Based on FAHP scores, non-control of the sub-criterion of health and safety (C3), blast operation results (C18) and knowledge, and skill and staffing (C2) with a score of 0.377, 0.334, and 0.294 respectively are the most effective sub-criterion for the creation of blasting operations risk. According to the score, the sub-criterion C18 is the most effective sub-criterion in providing the blasting operations risk. Effects and results of blasting operations (D8), with a score of 0.334 as the most effective criterion, and natural hazards (D10), with a score of 0.015, were the last priorities in the factors causing blasting operations risk.

Originality. Regarding the risk rating of blasting operations, the control of the sub-criteria C3, C18, and C2, and the D8 criterion, is of particular importance in reducing the risk of blasting operations and improving project management.

Practical implications. The evaluation of human resource performance and increase in the level of knowledge and skills and occupational safety and control of all outputs of blasting operations is necessary. Therefore, selecting the most important project risks and taking actions to remove them is essential for risk management.

Keywords: blasting operation, open pit mine, risk assessment, FAHP method, criteria and sub-criteria

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