When the bottom-line impacts dam safety

PAPER ABSTRACT

All projects are constrained by a number of variables. This is classically represented by the Project Management Triangle of Scope, Time and Cost, though there are other more modern versions with different variables. Regardless, these constraints are real and must be managed effectively in order to achieve successful project outcomes, however this is measured. 

There are instances where processes imposed by the commercial realities of mining and water infrastructure projects resulted in an increased risk to the safety of tailings or water dams. This risk may result from reduced scope or quality of work due to financial or time constraints implemented by those ill-equipped to properly identify the consequential risk. Often the associated risks are perceived to be low, but there are unforeseen risks of greater consequence that are not appreciated by the decision maker. The selected project delivery model can have a significant impact on dam safety risks through the allocation of risk, ability of the key decision makers, and the undue commercial pressures applied by each project delivery model. 

The presented case studies demonstrate how all stages of a tailings or water storage facility’s life cycle are impacted, including investigations, study, design, procurement, construction and operation. This paper aims to prompt both owners and consultants to review their commercial processes and project delivery strategies and limit unforeseen risks to the safety of a tailings or water dam.