Hazards associated with the mining of diamondiferous pipes
CIM Bulletin, Vol. 93, No. 1037, 2000
R.J. Butcher, SRK Consulting, Illovo, Johannesburg, South Africa
With the globalization of the mining industry, many companies are now seeking to invest in underground diamond mines, with the purchase of small diamond pipes being seen as particularly attractive. However, recent experiences in South Africa have shown that many projects fail due to a lack of awareness of the hazards associated with diamond mining. In this paper three significant hazards are dealt with Ñ mud rushes, block crushing, and implementation of an inappropriate mining method. Measures that assist in the prevention of these three hazards are given.
Mots Clés:
Underground mining, Diamond mining, Diamondiferous pipes, Mining methods.
