Geological Aspects of Risk Management in Oil Shale Mining

Abstract

The paper deals with risk management problems in Estonian oil shale mines. Investigations are focused on application of the method to determination of the quality of geological data. Various factors relevant to mining technology in Estonian oil shale deposit have been determined. For risk estimation, the empirical and judgmental approaches and the event tree were used. They allow determining the probability of the occurrence of geological features and its influence on the mining process. Analysis of obtained results showed that it is necessary to elaborate special methods for determination of the geological conditions in the mining area. The obtained information affords specialists to improve the quality of geological information and consequently the mine work efficiency. The analysis shows that the used method is applicable in conditions of Estonian oil shale industry. The results of the investigation are of particular interest for practical purposes.

Sustainability Assessment of Estonian Oil Shale Mining

“…Socio-cultural well-being indicators describe the relationship between appropriate technology of mining activities and assessment of its social impact and incorporate Standard of Living and Basic Human Needs, Community and Equal Opportunities [12].…”

Paste Fills Technology in Condition of Estonian Oil Shale Mine

“…Underground oil shale mining is performed by using a room-and-pillar method with blasting [11] [16] [17] [18]. It is cheap, highly productive and easily mechanized.…”

Surface Mining Technology in the Zones of Tectonic Disturbances, Estonian Oil Shale Deposit

“…By surface mining different excavation methods may be used such as digging, ripping, hydraulic breaking and blasting. When employing hydraulic breaking, mineral resource quality, mining conditions and restrictions have to be taken into account [5][6][7][8]. Considering these factors general recommendations for mining in the deposit may be given [9,10].…”