Environmental Consequence Classification of Mine Dam Failures: Updating the Canadian Classification System
December 14, 2020
The environmental consequences of dam failures has received considerable global attention in recent times. To help inform the design criteria, frequency of monitoring and inspections, requirement for emergency preparedness plans/emergency response plans, and other operational considerations, the Canadian Dam Association (CDA) uses a dam failure consequence classification system. The environmental component of the existing consequence classification system lacks a clear scientific basis and uses vaguely defined classification criteria.
Nikl, L., J. Steele, L. Robertson, S. Davidson and R. Schryburt. 2018. “Environmental Consequence Classification of Mine Dam Failures: Updating the Canadian Classification System,” in Proceedings of the ASDSO 2018 Dam Safety Conference, Seattle, WA, September 9 – 13, 2018. Lexington, KY: ASDSO (Association of State Dam Safety Officials).
