Implementation of a geotechnical operations service to optimize risk management in a major mining operation in Chile

The scope of the project includes specialized technical support for operational geotechnical management, integrating key activities such as geotechnical instrumentation, real-time monitoring, geological-geotechnical mapping, rock mass characterization, and geotechnical control associated with blasting processes. These activities provide reliable and timely information for decision-making in highly complex operational environments.

One of the core pillars of the service is geotechnical instrumentation, which enables the measurement of the physical behavior of the ground and mining infrastructure, generating high-quality data for analysis, alerts, and operational control. This information is interpreted through continuous monitoring systems that facilitate the issuance of early warnings and real-time reports, helping anticipate potential instabilities and protect both personnel and assets.

The service is supported by a robust technological infrastructure that includes remote geotechnical surveillance rooms, telemetry systems, cloud-based data management, and operational dashboards, enabling comprehensive and continuous supervision of the operation’s geotechnical conditions. This digital approach improves data traceability and strengthens response capabilities in critical situations.

From a decision-maker’s perspective, one of the main risks in large-scale mining operations is the occurrence of geotechnical instability events, which can impact personnel safety, disrupt production, and generate significant economic losses. A lack of proper monitoring or reliable information may lead to delayed or inefficient decisions.

Applus+ mitigates these risks by integrating monitoring, analysis, verification, and continuous learning, enabling the anticipation of events, optimization of mine planning, and assurance of operational stability. This approach not only reduces the likelihood of incidents but also improves the efficiency and reliability of the production process.

The service also incorporates capabilities in rock and soil mechanics laboratories aimed at determining key geotechnical properties, as well as specialized field teams that ensure activities are carried out under high technical and safety standards.

As a result, the project helps ensure the quality of geotechnical data, improve operational decision-making, generate early warnings for potential risks, and guarantee the safety of mining activities. It also establishes a replicable model for other operations, with strong potential for expansion across the sector.

With this project, Applus+ further strengthens its position as a trusted technical partner specializing in geotechnical services, stability monitoring, mining risk management and geotechnical instrumentation.

Our mining services portfolio supports the entire mining lifecycle and includes a wide range of solutions, from engineering and recruitment to environmental and technical advisory services, among others.