ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: Dams are an integral component of U.S. mining operations-making dam safety an important topic for the mining industry. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) lists over 2300 dams in its dam inventory. MSHA’s Dam Safety Program includes dam inspections, investigations of problems, training in dam-safety, and, for coal mines, approval of engineering plans for dams larger than a certain size and dams which can present a hazard. This paper discusses the following topics relative to dam safety in the mining industry:
• Updating of the “Engineering and Design Manual: Coal Refuse Disposal Facilities;” • Lessons learned from dam incidents; • Emergency action planning for high-hazard potential dams; and • Security of dams.
