Lecciones aprendidas en el proceso de implementación del GISTM

Name: Lecciones aprendidas en el proceso de implementación del GISTM
Uploaded: 2026-02-13T13:36:18.000Z
Duration: 2 h 52 min 46 s

Welcome and Safety Instructions

Introduction to the Event

The event is hosted at the Instituto de Ingenieros de Minas del Perú, emphasizing safety protocols for attendees.

Attendees are reminded to silence devices and stay in their locations during the event. Emergency exits and safety equipment are highlighted.

Acknowledgments

Pedro Pablo Villanueva introduces himself as part of the corporate communications team, welcoming everyone to "Nuestro Jueves Minero," celebrating its 30th anniversary.

Gratitude is expressed towards sponsors who support the event, with a mention of today's topic: lessons learned from implementing the GISM system.

Understanding GISM Implementation

Overview of GISM

The Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISM) is introduced as a rigorous standard that encompasses technical, social, and economic aspects of tailings management.

Expert Introduction

Cristian Cárdenas, an expert in geography and environmental engineering with over 16 years of experience in sustainability consulting, will discuss insights on GISM implementation.

Lessons Learned from Implementation

Challenges in Understanding Standards

Cristian shares experiences regarding challenges faced when understanding GISM's implementation since its introduction in 2020; ERM assisted in developing implementation protocols due to initial complexities.

Current Status of Compliance

Discussion on compliance status reveals that out of 836 installations globally under ICMM members, 67% are fully compliant while 33% have partial compliance; high-consequence facilities show an 80% full compliance rate.

Regional Insights and Governance

South America’s Performance

In South America specifically, among 141 installations surveyed, an impressive 83% achieve full compliance—one of the highest rates regionally compared to North America and Asia-Pacific regions.

Importance of Governance

Emphasis on governance maturity reflects not only technical standards but also social management within tailings operations; this highlights a growing recognition of comprehensive governance practices within mining organizations.

Understanding Compliance with Standards in Dam Management

Importance of Standards and Climate Change

The current standards may not align with design requirements, particularly regarding dam designs that were established before recent updates.

Climate change is now a critical factor that must be integrated into design parameters, reflecting its growing importance in safety and compliance.

Compliance with standards should be viewed as a continuous improvement process rather than just a one-time audit for certification.

Impact of Dam Failures on Communities

A study by ERM in 2020 revealed that approximately 1.35 million people live in areas potentially affected by dam failures, including both active and closed dams.

The analysis also indicated that around 70,000 km² could be impacted by dam failures, affecting economic activities and infrastructure significantly.

Lessons Learned from Implementation

Identification of Affected Communities

Initial assessments often only identified communities within direct influence zones; however, failure modes can extend beyond these areas, leading to gaps in information about affected populations.

Involvement of Affected Individuals

Engaging affected individuals in the co-development of emergency procedures is essential but challenging due to varying levels of understanding among community members.

Accessibility of Information

While complaint mechanisms exist, they are often not accessible to all community members due to language barriers or literacy issues, which undermines compliance with UN guiding principles.

Challenges in Communication

Effective communication about risks and procedures is crucial; however, many individuals struggle to comprehend technical documents related to dam safety.

Communication Challenges in Risk Management

The Dilemma of Communicating Failure Modes

The speaker discusses the difficulty of informing the public about credible failure modes for a dam, emphasizing past communication failures regarding risks.

Acknowledges that new analyses reveal potential risks, which could lead to speculation and concern among affected populations.

Highlights the risk of people moving into flood-prone areas due to misconceptions about property values.

Importance of Integrated Socio-Environmental Knowledge

Stresses the need for comprehensive socio-environmental context when assessing risks, particularly in relation to flood zones beyond direct influence areas.

Identifies gaps in information collection related to environmental baselines and flood impact assessments.

Climate Change Considerations

Points out that climate change is often excluded from socio-environmental contexts, despite its critical importance in risk analysis.

Emphasizes that climate change must inform design parameters, as extreme weather events can significantly alter safety standards.

Analyzing Dam Break Risks

Evaluating Failure Modes

Discusses how initial analyses did not adequately address specific failure modes or their impacts on flooding scenarios.

Notes that simulations were often conducted without a clear understanding of failure mechanisms.

Environmental Management Plans

Critiques existing environmental management plans for lacking adaptation strategies for hypothetical dam failures.

Design and Safety Factors

Safety Factor vs. Probability of Failure

Explains the significance of integrating safety factors with probabilities of failure to enhance reliability under uncertain conditions.

Comprehensive Risk Analysis

States that effective risk analysis requires both probability data and consequence assessments based on socio-environmental contexts.

Expanding Definitions of Failure Modes

Argues for broader definitions of failure modes beyond just structural failures, including uncontrolled releases as significant risks.

Seismic and Overflow Design Criteria

Discusses how classification impacts design criteria for seismic activity and overflow scenarios, stressing high standards for extreme consequence classifications.

Understanding Risk Assessment and Management in Long-Term Planning

The Challenge of Long-Term Data

The discussion begins with the complexity of using long-term data, specifically a return period of up to 10,000 years. This requires probabilistic data rather than deterministic data, which is easier to obtain from meteorological stations.

Implementing measures for such extended periods necessitates significant effort and comprehensive information gathering. The need for preventive resettlement is highlighted as often being inadequately documented or deemed inapplicable.

Risk Evaluation Process

A thorough risk evaluation process involves identifying failure modes and assessing their credibility. This includes simulating flood footprints and understanding the socio-environmental context within those areas. Resettlement considerations arise when rescue measures are insufficient before a flood event occurs.

The concept of ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practicable) is introduced, emphasizing that while resettlement can reduce risk, it must be balanced against financial implications and operational continuity concerns.

Operational Parameters and Responsibilities

There is a lack of detail regarding operational parameters, particularly concerning triggers for action (T). Questions arise about what actions to take if freeboard levels drop significantly, indicating gaps in operational manuals regarding roles and responsibilities during critical situations.

Key roles such as the recording engineer and responsible engineer were not adequately defined within operational mechanisms, leading to potential oversights in safety protocols when conditions reach critical thresholds.

Compliance with Design Standards

It’s emphasized that design parameters established at the beginning of a project must be monitored throughout its lifecycle until closure phases are completed. Deviations from these standards can lead to complications later on due to initial cost-cutting measures impacting future operations negatively.

Effective governance structures require constant interaction between key personnel like the executive responsible and third-party engineers; however, practical implementation often falls short due to scheduling conflicts or lack of documentation supporting these interactions.

Integrating Socioenvironmental Context into Risk Analysis

An effective risk analysis should encompass socio-environmental contexts across all phases of a project’s life cycle; this integration ensures that risks are comprehensively understood before proceeding with assessments or designs based on incomplete information.

Climate change considerations are crucial as they introduce uncertainties that may not have been previously accounted for in traditional risk assessments; thus highlighting the importance of adapting methodologies accordingly to include these factors effectively.

Incorporating Worker Experience

The experience of long-term workers should be integrated into operational planning processes; their insights can provide valuable perspectives that enhance safety protocols and overall project effectiveness but were noted as lacking in current practices discussed during the session.

Procedures and Emergency Response Insights

Importance of Including Experienced Workers in Procedures

Procedures were often created solely by management or consultants, neglecting the valuable insights from experienced workers.

The recommendation is to involve seasoned employees in updates to procedures, allowing them to contribute their knowledge and suggest improvements.

Emergency Preparedness Plans

Emergency plans provided were typically operational-focused (e.g., fire response), lacking comprehensive scenarios for potential failures.

Effective emergency plans must address specific failure modes, such as overtopping, ensuring they are tailored to actual risks.

Collaboration with First Response Institutions

There was a lack of engagement with first response institutions during planning; identifying these entities is crucial for effective emergency response.

A thorough assessment of the capabilities of these institutions is necessary to ensure they can respond adequately in emergencies.

Involvement of Affected Individuals in Planning

Emergency measures should be co-developed with potentially affected individuals to ensure their concerns and needs are addressed.

Communication about emergency plans must include input from those at risk, fostering trust and satisfaction with the proposed measures.

Evaluation of Response Capabilities

Simulations did not account for varying evacuation times based on individual circumstances (e.g., elderly or disabled persons).

Plans need to consider socio-environmental contexts that affect how quickly individuals can reach safety during an emergency.

Public Disclosure and Information Access

Standards require a system for addressing information requests from affected individuals; this includes explaining any limitations on information sharing.

Existing mechanisms primarily focused on complaints rather than providing information, indicating a gap in meeting standard requirements.

Conclusion

The presentation highlighted critical lessons learned regarding procedural development and emergency preparedness, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and proper evaluation processes.

Introduction to the Panel

Panelists and Their Roles

The panel features diverse experts in mining governance: Olimpia Cabrera (Gerente de Gobernanza de Relaves, Minera Antamina) , Nicolás Aldaña (Gerente de Gestión y Gobernanza de Residuos Mineros, South Earth Speak Mining) , and Fernando Montero (Gerente de Estrategia y Desempeño Social, Angloamerican Quaveco) .

The discussion aims to explore their experiences and insights regarding challenges in mining governance.

Challenges in Mining Governance

Addressing Professional Challenges

Olimpia Cabrera highlights that while mining is an established industry in Peru, the governance of tailings management is a relatively new field requiring integrated efforts from various professionals.

There is a noted shortage of qualified professionals specifically trained in tailings governance, which poses significant challenges for companies.

Support for Young Professionals

Companies are encouraged to support young engineers through internships and training programs focused on governance practices. This initiative aims to build capacity within the industry.

The lack of specialized education on tailings management at universities necessitates additional training opportunities provided by companies.

Importance of Community Engagement

Social License and Community Relations

Effective implementation of the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISM) emphasizes the importance of community engagement to ensure social license for operations. The focus should be on zero harm to people and the environment.

Engaging with affected communities helps them understand risks associated with tailings facilities and fosters collaboration in developing safety measures. This relationship is crucial for obtaining public validation during consultations.

Selection Criteria for Tailings Facilities

In future projects, social factors significantly influence decisions regarding tailings facility locations, highlighting the need for ongoing relationships between mining companies and local communities. This aspect has been increasingly recognized as critical over time.

Challenges in Mining Project Management and Territorial Governance

Overview of Mining Standards and Local Realities

Nicolás discusses the gap between global mining standards and local realities in Peru, emphasizing the need for effective territorial management amidst various challenges.

He expresses gratitude to the institute for the opportunity to share lessons learned from his extensive experience in mining projects, highlighting both successes and traumatic issues faced.

Changes Post-Brumadinho Incident

Following the Brumadinho disaster in 2018, new standards emerged that altered infrastructure design criteria significantly, particularly focusing on waste management beyond just tailings.

Nicolás notes that while medium-sized mines have begun adopting international norms like CDA, many smaller operations still lag behind in compliance with these updated standards.

Design Considerations and Environmental Impact

He points out that some mining operations prioritize cost-cutting over safety by using outdated designs, such as upstream tailings dams which are now prohibited in Peru.

The importance of incorporating buffer zones into designs is emphasized; current practices often neglect potential risks like collapses or overtopping events due to inadequate planning.

Climate Variability and Tailings Management

Nicolás highlights Peru's diverse microclimates affecting mining operations; he contrasts rainfall levels at different sites impacting design solutions for tailings management.

He advocates for filtered tailings as a viable solution for large-scale mining at high altitudes, noting their advantages in safety factors and social acceptance compared to traditional slurry methods.

Broader Responsibilities of Mining Executives

The discussion shifts towards the broader responsibilities of executives managing tailings; they must consider impacts beyond company boundaries when making decisions about waste management.

Nicolás stresses proactive planning—anticipating operational needs two to three steps ahead—to ensure sustainable practices are integrated into project development.

Implementing Standards at New Mining Operations: A Case Study

Initial Reactions to Standard Implementation

Fernando shares insights on implementing new standards at Angloamerican Queyaveco, acknowledging initial concerns about communicating potential risks to communities after construction completion.

Understanding Risk Management in Dam Operations

The Challenge of Dam Safety

Discusses the probability of dam failure and its impact on surrounding communities, highlighting the significant challenge this poses for management.

Reflects on personal experiences that emphasize the importance of understanding risks through direct experience rather than theoretical knowledge, citing the Brumadinho disaster as a pivotal moment.

Awareness and Regulation

Emphasizes the need for awareness and action regarding dam safety, aligning with the company's mission to improve people's lives amidst heightened sensitivity to risks in Brazil.

Notes existing municipal regulations that mandate buffer zones around dams, indicating a growing consciousness about safety standards.

Communication with Stakeholders

Highlights the necessity of effectively communicating risk management strategies to stakeholders to achieve meaningful participation in safety standards.

Describes a strategic retreat to focus on broader risk management within the region, which was essential for successful implementation.

Collaboration with Government

Details collaboration with regional government entities whose emergency plans were outdated; efforts included signing cooperation agreements to update these plans from 2025 to 2035.

Identifies eight key risks but notes that potential dam failures were viewed as consequences of other events (e.g., earthquakes), shaping narrative perspectives on risk.

Training and Preparedness

Explains training initiatives aimed at preparing affected populations not just for dam failures but also for various identified risks like transportation accidents and wildfires.

Underlines ongoing training programs that incorporate multi-hazard scenarios, including dam failure preparedness into emergency response plans.

Importance of Transparency

Stresses transparency as a crucial element in navigating uncertainties associated with implementing safety standards, fostering community trust and engagement.

Concludes by noting that achieving compliance with GISM requirements is an ongoing process requiring continuous updates and adaptations based on evolving conditions.

Future Challenges Ahead

Acknowledges that while significant progress has been made, future challenges remain as they prepare for further assessments leading up to 2028.

Infrastructure and Governance in Mining Operations

Importance of Tailings Storage Facilities

The tailings deposit is a critical infrastructure for mining companies, particularly for Antamina, which has recognized its importance long before the GISM standards were established.

Mining companies prioritize their infrastructures as a collapse of the tailings dam can halt plant operations. As production increases, the volume of tailings grows, raising concerns about potential failures.

Governance and Risk Management

Antamina has implemented key roles defined by GISM, with the RTF (Tailings Facility Responsible Team) reporting directly to the CEO, highlighting the significance of governance in managing tailings safety.

Independent reviews by external consultants are conducted regularly to ensure that design, operation, and construction meet safety standards due to the high nature of Antamina's dam.

A registered engineer from a recognized firm conducts quarterly checks on the performance and operation of the tailings dam to maintain oversight.

Change Management Procedures

Any significant changes in design require an independent review according to governance protocols at Antamina. This ensures thorough evaluation and accountability in operations.

Shareholder meetings include discussions on risk management specific to tailings deposits. Developing procedures beyond standard risk management systems is essential due to their complexity.

Team Responsibilities and Challenges

A dedicated team is necessary for effective verification of the tailings facility; one individual cannot manage all aspects due to technical, environmental, and social components involved.

The RTF team at Antamina oversees these responsibilities comprehensively to ensure proper performance across various dimensions related to tailing management.

Investment in Planning and Technology

Investment in integrated planning for tailing facilities represents a significant budget shift within mining operations. This change can be challenging as it may reduce immediate profits but enhances long-term safety.

Transitioning from minimal budgets for tailing areas to substantial investments requires alignment among specialists who may be costly and scarce resources sourced internationally.

Increased data collection through more extensive geotechnical studies helps mitigate risks associated with statistical errors that could compromise safety assessments.

Innovations in Tailings Management

Emphasis on filtered or dehydrated tailings aims at reducing operational costs while enhancing safety measures. Ongoing proposals seek scalable solutions that balance cost-effectiveness with environmental considerations.

Discussion on Mining Solutions and Risk Management

Exploring Accessible Solutions in Mining Technology

The discussion emphasizes the need for more accessible solutions in mining technology, particularly regarding tailings management. It highlights the importance of minimizing environmental footprints and improving water governance.

Business Recovery Plans in Mining Operations

Nicolás shares an anecdote about a conversation with an insurance company regarding business recovery plans, stressing the complexity of maintaining operations during failures, especially in pulp dams compared to tailings.

Financial Implications of Tailings Management

The conversation shifts to the financial aspects of tailings management, noting that understanding potential damage from failures is crucial for developing effective recovery strategies.

Balancing Standards and Profitability

A question arises about how to meet industry standards while remaining profitable. Fernando Gamarra suggests that reputation and diligent practices are key to ensuring safety without compromising profitability.

Enhancing Community Relations through Risk Communication

The importance of safeguarding not just workers but all stakeholders is discussed. Engaging with local communities on risk management enhances reputation and fosters social licenses to operate.

Addressing Public Concerns Without Alarmism

Strategies for communicating risks to communities are explored. Emphasizing preparedness over alarmism helps build trust and encourages community involvement in safety plans.

Learning from Past Incidents

The discussion references lessons learned from past mining disasters like Brumadinho, highlighting the necessity of strong reactions to mobilize community awareness and action towards safety measures.

Challenges in Consulting for Business Operations

Identifying Key Challenges Faced by Companies

The speaker discusses the complexity of challenges faced by companies, emphasizing that there are multiple bottlenecks affecting operations.

Many issues stem from existing operational frameworks, which may not align with new standards or requirements introduced.

There is a risk that current designs may fail when integrating new factors, necessitating significant adjustments to ensure business continuity.

Financial Implications and Decision-Making

Decisions regarding compliance with standards can lead to substantial financial investments, sometimes amounting to millions of dollars.

The necessity for engineering controls often arises after exhausting administrative options, highlighting the importance of strategic resource allocation.

The Role of Academia in Industry Training

Current Educational Initiatives

The discussion shifts to the involvement of academia in addressing industry needs, particularly through courses on management and design related to mining operations.

There is recognition that while some educational programs exist, there remains a significant gap in research and practical training opportunities within local institutions.

Need for Collaboration Between Industry and Academia

A call for stronger partnerships between mining companies and academic institutions is made to enhance knowledge development in critical areas like tailings management.

It’s noted that many professionals pursue advanced studies abroad due to limited local offerings, indicating a need for improved domestic educational resources.

Enhancing Professional Development Through Certification

Importance of Comprehensive Training

Stakeholders including owners, authorities, designers, and students must engage in ongoing education due to the complexities involved in different mining environments.

Collaborative efforts among mining companies have led to sharing best practices and lessons learned regarding new regulations impacting the industry.

Proposed Solutions for Improved Standards

A technical group formed under national mining associations aims to address various industry topics while promoting educational initiatives.

The establishment of certification programs similar to those available internationally could enhance confidence among authorities regarding professional qualifications in managing tailings.

Discussion on International Standards in Social Management

The Value of International Standards in Conflict Prevention

Fausto Merino and Diego Sans raise a question about the effectiveness of international standards in preventing or analyzing social conflicts, suggesting that this topic may be niche but relevant to fieldwork in social management.

The speaker believes that the GISM (Global International Standard for Mining) provides visibility to blind spots in mining management, particularly regarding social aspects, emphasizing its role in preserving human life.

The ISM is being used as a pilot project to identify impacts from infrastructure like tailings dams. This methodology could extend to other infrastructures such as water pipelines and reservoirs.

By identifying potential impacts on populations not currently mapped, the approach aims to anticipate conflicts and prioritize human safety and livelihoods over mere conflict resolution.

Conclusion of Panel Discussion

The panel concludes with gratitude towards participants, highlighting the importance of discussions around social management and conflict prevention.

Upcoming Events by the Institute of Engineers

Important Announcements

The Institute of Engineers of Peru is organizing significant events including PROEXLO, an international congress for prospectors and explorers scheduled for May 4-6. Registration is now open.

An invitation is extended for participation in a free webinar titled "The Future of Artificial Intelligence in Exploration, Mining, and Processing Critical Minerals," led by Professor Jeff Casers from Stanford University.

Attendees are encouraged to visit the Waring Congress website or scan a QR code displayed on-screen for more information regarding these events.