Dispute Resolution in the Mining Industry: Lessons Learned from the Effects of Blasting on Nearby Structures
Publication: Journal of Legal Affairs and Dispute Resolution in Engineering and Construction
Volume 13, Issue 3
Abstract
Blasting is a common practice in surface mining operations to remove waste rock and to excavate mineral deposits. However, blasting creates adverse effects such as blast-induced ground vibrations, air overpressure, dust, fumes, and flyrock. Residential communities living close to a mine site and other structures in the vicinity of a mining operation are subject to blast-induced damages. Humans can perceive low-level vibrations from blasting events that cause house to shake. They become concerned about cosmetic or structural damages due to blast-induced vibrations and air overpressures. Some cosmetic and structural damage claims from the community are legitimate. However, many are found to be false during the investigation of citizen complaints. In these instances, monetary compensation is still expected, on the basis that damages were solely due to blasting activities in nearby mines. This study presents cases and investigations to resolve owner-filed complaints for regulatory action and monetary compensation. It emphasizes recordkeeping and monitoring of blast operations, from which two positive outcomes result: (1) assisting regulatory authorities in assessing compliance with blasting regulations and prevention of damage to structures; and (2) helping the mining industry identify critical blasting information needed to protect nearby structures minimize liability claims.
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Data Availability Statement
All data used during the study are available from the corresponding author by request.
Acknowledgments
The authors acknowledge valuable insights provided by the lead investigator, who provided explosives/blasting reports related to the two case studies presented in this study.
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Published In
Journal of Legal Affairs and Dispute Resolution in Engineering and Construction
Volume 13 • Issue 3 • August 2021
Copyright
© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 25, 2021
Accepted: Apr 16, 2021
Published online: Jun 11, 2021
Published in print: Aug 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Nov 11, 2021
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