Safe Mining in Brazil

The mining sector in Brazil is undergoing a profound transformation. Following the Mariana (2015) and Brumadinho (2019) dam failures, the industry has strengthened its commitment to geotechnical safety and data transparency. Regulations now demand continuous monitoring and clear traceability in decision-making.

Yet, many mines still manage monitoring and geotechnical data in isolation, making it difficult to detect anomalies early or validate model assumptions. The key challenge lies in transforming large, scattered datasets into actionable insights that support the “Zero Harm” vision driving modern mining.

Geotechnical Risk Management: From Monitoring to Intelligence

Traditional risk management relied on periodic data reviews and static models. Today, engineers need continuous, data-driven feedback to anticipate failure mechanisms before they occur.

By integrating monitoring data with numerical models, engineers can refine geotechnical parameters in real time through backanalysis — an inverse modeling process that calibrates models using actual field data. This approach reduces uncertainty, aligns analysis with site reality, and improves the reliability of stability predictions.

Real-Time Integration with DAARWIN

DAARWIN enables this new workflow by connecting monitoring systems and numerical models within a single digital platform. Engineers can visualize live data, assess behavior trends, and automatically compare model predictions with sensor readings.

The platform continuously updates models as new data is received, creating a real-time feedback loop that supports:

• Early detection of ground movement or pore pressure anomalies.

• Correlation of rainfall, operational changes, and deformation.

• Generation of dashboards and alerts for proactive decisions.

In Brazil’s complex geological and climatic conditions, such integration turns data into foresight — enabling teams to act before risks escalate.

Applications Across Mining Operations

The same framework supports different mining contexts:

• Tailings Facilities: Continuous assessment of pore pressure and displacement to anticipate liquefaction or instability.

• Open Pits: Radar and GNSS data integrated with numerical models for adaptive slope management.

• Underground Works: Convergence and stress monitoring linked to real-time model calibration for safer excavation design.

  
  

In all cases, DAARWIN serves as the digital backbone of geotechnical safety, connecting monitoring, analysis, and engineering judgment

 Benefits for Brazilian Mining

Implementing real-time integration of geotechnical data delivers:

• Enhanced safety through early warning and continuous analysis

• Regulatory compliance aligned with ANM requirements

• Operational efficiency by automating data processing and reporting

• Predictive capability through continuous model calibration

  
  

This approach strengthens Brazil’s position as a global reference in safe, sustainable mining.

Conclusion

Safety in mining depends on understanding how the ground evolves — not just measuring it. By integrating monitoring data and numerical modeling, engineers can predict rather than react to geotechnical risks.

DAARWIN embodies this vision, enabling real-time geotechnical intelligence for safer operations across Brazil’s mines and tailings facilities.

👉 Learn more: https://www.saalg.com/real-time-backanalysis