Micro-credential Case Studies of Tailings Failures

Program Overview

The "Case Studies of Tailings Failures" micro-credential from UWA is part of a series leading to a Graduate Certificate in Tailings Management. It analyzes two well-known TSF failures to illustrate the connection between design, construction, operation, and stability. The program emphasizes the importance of applying knowledge gained in prior micro-credentials to reduce the likelihood of catastrophic TSF failures. It targets professionals working in tailings management and addresses the industry's shortage of personnel with appropriate training.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The micro-credential "Case Studies of Tailings Failures" (MINEM533) is part of a series of 12 micro-credentials offered by the University of Western Australia (UWA) that, upon successful completion, lead to a Graduate Certificate in Tailings Management.

Objectives:

The micro-credential aims to:

• Illustrate the connection between design, construction, and operation of a tailings storage facility (TSF) and how deficiencies in any of these processes can impact TSF stability.
• Analyze two well-documented TSF failures: the Merriespruit failure (South Africa, 1994) and the Cadia TSF failure (Australia, 2018).
• Emphasize the importance of applying knowledge gained in previous micro-credentials (Risk Evaluation and Tailings Monitoring) to reduce the likelihood of catastrophic TSF failures.

Program Description:

This micro-credential is part of the "Future Tails" initiative, a five-year project funded by Rio Tinto and BHP, focused on promoting best practices in mine tailings management.

Teaching:

• Delivery Mode: Online access to learning materials on demand.
• Discussion Forums: Two online discussion forums are held for students to engage with the material and share insights.
• Academic Lead: Professor Andy Fourie

Careers:

• Demand for Tailings Professionals: The Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) has increased the demand for tailings professionals.
• Industry Shortage: The industry faces a shortage of personnel with appropriate training in tailings management.
• Keeping Up with Standards: This micro-credential helps professionals stay current with standards, technologies, and guidelines related to tailings management.

Other:

• Target Audience: Professionals working in tailings management, including practicing engineers, geoscientists, and individuals responsible for risk assessments of TSFs.
• Prior Knowledge: It is recommended that students complete MINEM531 - Risk Evaluation and MINEM532 - Tailings Monitoring before taking this micro-credential.
• Stackable Micro-credentials: This micro-credential is one of twelve that are stackable towards the Graduate Certificate in Tailings Management.
• Cost: $1,100 inc. GST.
• Course Dates: 29 January 2024 - 22 March 2024.
• Effort: 50 hours (including online learning, personal study time, and assessments).