Quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) to safeguard the expansion of a tailings dam in Cusco, Peru

The project includes quality assurance activities for civil works, mechanical works and instrumentation associated with the expansion of the tailings dam, whose elevation will increase from 4,073 to 4,090 meters above sea level. This expansion will increase tailings of storage capacity and ensure the operational continuity of the mining unit under the most demanding technical and regulatory standards. 

Applus+ technical scope includes technical inspections, construction verifications and quality controls for construction processes related to discharge channels, anchoring systems, mechanical works, geotechnical instrumentation, geosynthetic installation and laboratory testing. These activities make it possible to verify that the works are carried out in accordance with the drawings, technical specifications, approved procedures, and applicable regulations. 

In tailings storage infrastructure, construction quality is a key factor in ensuring the physical stability of the dam, minimizing geotechnical risks, and maintaining long-term operational safety. Proper supervision of materials, processes and controls helps prevent deviations that could affect infrastructure performance. 

From the perspective of decisionmakers in the mining sector, one of the main risks in this type of project is the possibility of construction failures, technical non-conformities, or deficiencies in quality traceability. These factors can lead to rework, delays, increased costs, and exposure to future operational risks. 

Applus+ mitigates these risks through a model based on quality assurance, specialized technical inspection and document control, incorporating inspection and test plans (ITPs), continuous verification through field and laboratory testing, early management of non-conformities and ongoing monitoring of construction processes. 

The project also includes the preparation of periodic quality reports, inspection records and traceable technical documentation, enabling more robust information management and strengthening decision-making throughout the execution of the works. 

Through this approach, the dam expansion is carried out with higher levels of control, reducing risks associated with construction failures, optimizing the execution of the works and contributing to safe, reliable infrastructure capable of meeting the future needs of the mining operation. 

With this project, Applus+ further strengthens its expertise in quality assurance and quality control for the mining sector, providing specialized solutions for geotechnical infrastructure and tailings dams that help improve the safety, operational efficiency and sustainability of mining operations.