Improving Mine Safety Throgh Advance Geotechnical Monitoring

This project investigates the use of advanced geotechnical monitoring to improve mine safety, with a specific focus on the dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP), applied in a case study of Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria. The DCP is a robust tool that measures soil and rock resistance by driving a cone into the ground and recording the encountered resistance. This method provides critical data on subsurface conditions, helping to identify potential hazards such as landslides, rock falls, and ground subsidence. Our study is conducted in the sedimentary basement of Auchi, an area with diverse geological features and significant mining activities. Auchi is located in northern Edo State, characterized by a mix of sedimentary rocks prone to various stability issues due to both natural and anthropogenic factors. By integrating the DCP with GPS technology, we achieve precise geolocation of data points, facilitating comprehensive analysis of the subsurface conditions across the mining area. The objectives of this study include enhancing mine safety protocols, improving operational efficiency, and contributing to the body of knowledge on geotechnical monitoring. The findings from this research demonstrate the effectiveness of the DCP in providing detailed and real-time geotechnical data. This information is crucial for the proactive identification and mitigation of potential hazards, ultimately leading to safer mining environments. The results of this study are expected to offer valuable insights and a framework for implementing similar safety measures in other mining regions worldwide, thus contributing to the ongoing efforts to protect miners and ensure the sustainability of mining operations.