How a Multi-Layered Structure Strengthens Governance and Integrity in Tailings Facilities
In the complex world of mining, the safe management of tailings storage facilities (TSFs) is an absolute priority. More than just a byproduct of mineral activity, tailings require continuous monitoring and technical responsibility to prevent environmental impacts, protect communities, and ensure asset integrity.
In this article, you will discover the five main review mechanisms recommended by the ICMM’s Good Practice Guide on Tailings Management and the GISTM Compliance Protocols—fundamental pillars for a strong culture of safety and continuous improvement in mining.
1. Independent Review: The External Technical Perspective
Independent Review is considered the backbone of tailings governance. It is a critical evaluation conducted by external experts with complete independence from operations.
This review assesses aspects such as:
- Compliance with technical and regulatory standards
- Design and operational criteria
- Maintenance and risk management practices
- Alignment with corporate sustainability objectives
By offering an impartial and specialized perspective, Independent Review helps identify risks before they turn into failures, fostering safer and well-informed decisions.
2. DSRs – Dam Safety Reviews: Adapting Water Dam Experience
Dam Safety Reviews (DSRs) are inspired by best practices from hydraulic dams but adapted to the specific characteristics of tailings dams.
Their primary focus is to assess:
- Potential failure modes
- Structural, operational, and climatic conditions
- Governance and emergency protocols
The DSR must be conducted by a professional or team with technical autonomy and authority, ensuring a reliable assessment of the facility’s safety status.
3. Tailings Governance Review: A Comprehensive Assessment of the Management System
This type of review focuses on the processes and structures that support tailings management, going beyond technical aspects to analyze the systemic functioning of the operation.
It covers topics such as:
- Governance model and responsibilities
- Effectiveness of the Tailings Management System (TMS)
- Operational procedures and decision-making processes
- Emergency preparedness and response
Its goal is to strengthen internal governance, drive continuous improvement, and foster an organizational culture of safety responsibility.
4. Tailings Management System (TMS) Review: The Heart of Compliance
The TMS—Tailings Management System—is the central nervous system of tailings operations. Reviewing the TMS ensures that this system:
- Is complete and up to date
- Integrates different areas of the organization
- Promotes corrective and preventive actions
- Maintains traceability and control of information
This review identifies bottlenecks, omissions, and opportunities for improvement, ensuring the system remains effective throughout the entire facility life cycle.
5. Audits and Verifications: Ensuring Technical and Regulatory Compliance
Audits and technical verifications are formal, systematic mechanisms to confirm whether the facility complies with:
- GISTM requirements and ICMM protocols
- Current technical and legal standards
- Internal control procedures
Beyond identifying non-conformities, these verifications guide process improvements, help build robust audit trails, and reinforce the commitment to transparency.
How Do These Mechanisms Complement Each Other?
Although each mechanism has a distinct focus, together they form an integrated framework of technical and organizational oversight:
- Independent Review brings an external technical perspective.
- DSRs focus on dam structural integrity.
- Governance Review assesses the institutional and procedural environment.
- TMS Review ensures the robustness of the management system.
- Audits guarantee formal adherence to standards and requirements.
This multifaceted approach enhances prevention and response capacity, contributing to operational resilience and strengthening stakeholder trust.
Conclusion: Tailings Safety Requires Continuous Review and Integrated Commitment
Tailings management is one of the biggest technical, social, and environmental challenges in modern mining.
By adopting the five review mechanisms recommended by GISTM and ICMM, companies position themselves as leaders in safety, transparency, and responsibility.
Beyond meeting regulatory requirements, implementing these reviews helps:
- Protect communities and ecosystems
- Strengthen institutional reputation
- Ensure sustainable operational continuity
