Operational risks in underground mining projects

Abstract

The project of which this paper was derived, sought to build an array of operational risks in companies with mining projects located in the Colombian Andes. Following a mixed methodological approach that combined documentary research, in situ observations and semi quantitative analysis they were established and probable negative consequences on business accounting, environmental health and heritage operational events. For operational risk, Basel II as defined from the losses generated by external events and failures in processes, personnel and internal systems, attributed the increased uncertainty about the objectives set by the mining companies. Yet risk analysis in large companies in this sector, far from the events estimate loss of life and biodiversity, treatment focuses on factors that prevent 24/7/365 operate under the scheme, relegating to level factors associated with the health and safety of people and ecosystems involved in its projects. In addition to the dangers that miners are exposed by working in confined spaces, ceilings and floors fragile, dark environments, high temperatures and impure air; physical and chemical pollutants generated during the exploration and extraction, impair the health of miners hearing damage, damage to the nervous system, allergies, respiratory diseases, silicosis and lung cancer. As if that were not enough, the accumulation of hazardous waste in tailings dams and reservoirs, adversely impacting water bodies, air and soil, water generated poverty and biodiversity loss. Is it fair to transfer such risks to the communities living in mining areas?.