A Geotechnical Reconciliation Journey Implementing A Risk-Based Framework Utilising Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Photogrammetry-Based Mapping

DOI

10.2991/978-94-6463-900-1_16How to use a DOI?

Keywords

geotechnical slope reconciliation; UAV photogrammetry; reconciliation framework

Abstract

Geotechnical reconciliation is a critical practice in open pit mining to ensure slope stability by validating design assumptions against as-mined conditions using the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) strategy. This process mitigates slope stability risks and enhances operational efficiency at BHP’s Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) operations in the Eastern Pilbara, thereby addressing these challenges in complex structural environments.

The reconciliation framework incorporates risk-based pit or pushback residual risk ratings and structural complexity to determine appropriate face mapping methods. UAV photogrammetry is used to scan temporary and final pit walls, with mapping levels tailored to the updating of the tactical short-term geology model to improve the main structural and stratigraphic model confidence for stability assessment. A Context-Purpose-Outcome-Resources-Timing-Safety (CPORTS) format guides geotechnical mapping outcomes and integrates updates to the tactical modelling stakeholder. An escalation process addresses structural or stratigraphic non-compliance.

This framework enables efficient planning and execution across WAIO’s geographically widespread operations, where comprehensive detailed wall mapping at scale is impractical. The systematic integration of geotechnical reconciliation mapping supports timely adjustments that enhance operational safety and efficiency.

Since implementation, significant safety and economic benefits have been achieved through proactive decision-making. Case studies demonstrate improvements using Rocscience Inc.‘s Slide two- and three-dimensional slope stability modelling software.

Copyright

© 2025 The Author(s)

Open Access

Open Access This chapter is licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits any noncommercial use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license and indicate if changes were made.

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TY  - CONF
AU  - Robert Botha
AU  - Francesca George
AU  - James Dube
AU  - Michael Kostadinovski
PY  - 2025
DA  - 2025/12/07
TI  - A Geotechnical Reconciliation Journey Implementing A Risk-Based Framework Utilising Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Photogrammetry-Based Mapping
BT  - Proceedings of the Rocscience International Conference 2025 (RIC 2025)
PB  - Atlantis Press
SP  - 164
EP  - 177
SN  - 2589-4943
UR  - https://doi.org/10.2991/978-94-6463-900-1_16
DO  - 10.2991/978-94-6463-900-1_16
ID  - Botha2025
ER  -