Publication: Tailings Storage Facilities
Date
2021-04-22
ISSN
Published
2021-04-22
Author(s)
World Bank
Abstract
Tailings storage facilities (TSFs) are
engineered structures that comprise the confining
embankments (commonly referred to as tailings dams) and
associated works and are designed to contain tailings
(residue following extraction of valuable material from
metal ore processing) and to manage associated water. TSF
contains mixed waste material from mining processes in
liquid or slurry form and must be responsibly managed to
prevent impacts on human health and safety, the environment,
and other infrastructure. However, TSFs have historically
suffered more problems than water storage dams.
Internationally, TSFs have a historical long-term average of
more than one major incident or failure per year. To manage
mining facilities responsibly, the TSF owner must understand
the physical and chemical risks associated with the TSF and
implement controls to reduce risks relating to potential
health, safety, environmental, societal, business, and
economic impacts in line with regulations. International
organizations, regulators and industries have developed
guidelines to aid owners in the management of TSFs. These
guidelines were used to develop this Technical Note. The
Note is intended to raise awareness and inform specific
studies/investigations, as appropriate, during project preparation.
Link to Data Set
Citation
“World Bank. 2021. Tailings Storage Facilities. Good Practice Note on Dam Safety;Technical Note 7. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/35491 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”