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Prepared for:

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Asiento Minero Cerro Verde - Uchumayo
Casilla Postal 299
Arequipa, Peru

CERRO VERDE TAILING STORAGE FACILITY


FINAL DESIGN
Volume 9 Operations Manual

September 2006

Prepared by:
MWH
1801 California Street
Suite 2900
Denver, Colorado 80202
(303) 291-2222

MWH Project No. 1010211.012514

September2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual x TOC-i

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section No.
1.0

INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................... 1

1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2.0

DOCUMENT PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................... 1


REGISTERED DOCUMENT HOLDERS ............................................................................................... 2
OPERATIONS MANUAL REVIEW AND UPDATE ............................................................................... 2
PROJECT HISTORY AND SCHEDULE ................................................................................................ 3
ROLES, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS .................................... 4

2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
3.0

Page No.

GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................... 4
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART ............................................................................................................. 4
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................................................................................... 4
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................. 6
FACILITY DESCRIPTION .......................................................................................................... 7

3.1
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ........................................................................................................ 7
3.2
FACILITY LOCATION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION .............................................................................. 7
3.3
SITE CONDITIONS .......................................................................................................................... 8
3.3.1 Landscape and Topography ..................................................................................................... 8
3.3.2 Climate and Hydrology ............................................................................................................ 8
3.3.3 Seismicity................................................................................................................................ 10
3.3.4 Geology .................................................................................................................................. 10
3.4
DESIGN BASIS AND CRITERIA ....................................................................................................... 11
3.4.1 Compliance of Standards and Regulations ............................................................................ 11
3.4.2 International Guidelines......................................................................................................... 16
3.4.3 Design Basis and Criteria ...................................................................................................... 16
4.0

FACILITY OPERATION ............................................................................................................ 19

4.1
OBJECTIVE ................................................................................................................................... 19
4.2
TAILING PRODUCTION AND TRANSPORT ...................................................................................... 19
4.2.1 Tailing Characteristics and Production Schedule.................................................................. 19
4.2.2 Tailing Thickening.................................................................................................................. 20
4.2.3
Whole Tailing Pipeline .......................................................................................................... 21
4.2.4 Tailing Cycloning ................................................................................................................... 21
4.2.5 Jacking Headers ..................................................................................................................... 22
4.2.6 Other Delivery Lines .............................................................................................................. 22
4.3
EMBANKMENT CONSTRUCTION ................................................................................................... 22
4.3.1 Description of the Embankment ............................................................................................. 23
4.3.2 Embankment Design Assumptions.......................................................................................... 24
4.3.3 Start-up Construction ............................................................................................................. 24
4.3.4 Contingency Measures and Problem/Solution Matrix ........................................................... 29
4.3.4.1
4.3.4.2
4.3.4.3
4.3.4.4

4.3.5
4.3.6
4.3.7
4.3.8
4.3.9
4.3.10
4.3.11
4.3.12

Insufficient Quantity of Underflow .............................................................................................. 29


Flatter or Steeper Embankment Slope .......................................................................................... 30
Excessive Seepage at Start-up ...................................................................................................... 31
Problem/Solution Matrix .............................................................................................................. 31

General Embankment Construction ....................................................................................... 35


Deposition on the Embankment Crest .................................................................................... 37
Placement of the Underflow Sands over the Drains............................................................... 39
Special Embankment Features ............................................................................................... 39
Deposition of Underflow Sands into the Eastern Quebrada .................................................. 39
Embankment Instrumentation ............................................................................................ 41
Embankment Construction Schedule ................................................................................. 42
QA/QC of Embankment Construction................................................................................ 42

4.3.12.1

Lift Thickness............................................................................................................................... 43

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual x TOC-ii

4.3.12.2
4.3.12.3
4.3.12.4
4.3.12.5
4.3.12.6
4.3.12.7
4.3.12.8

In-place Density and Moisture Content ........................................................................................ 44


Gradation of In-place Underflow.................................................................................................. 44
Compaction Characteristics of In-place Underflow...................................................................... 45
Slope............................................................................................................................................. 45
Freeboard...................................................................................................................................... 45
Erosion.......................................................................................................................................... 46
QA/QC Reporting......................................................................................................................... 46

4.4
IMPOUNDMENT DEPOSITION PLAN ............................................................................................... 47
4.4.1 Objectives ............................................................................................................................... 47
4.4.2 Description ............................................................................................................................. 47
4.4.3 Deposition Schedule ............................................................................................................... 49
4.4.4 QA/QC.................................................................................................................................... 50
4.5
SUSTAINING CAPITAL ITEMS........................................................................................................ 50
4.5.1 Drain Expansion .................................................................................................................... 51
4.5.2 QA/QC of Sustaining Capital Drain Expansions ................................................................... 51
4.5.3 Header Extension ................................................................................................................... 53
4.5.4 Left Abutment Blanketing ....................................................................................................... 54
4.5.5 Instrumentation Expansion..................................................................................................... 56
4.5.5.1

Details of Instrument and ADAS Installation and Maintenance................................................... 57

4.5.6 Geotechnical Investigations ................................................................................................... 57


4.6
WATER MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................................ 59
4.6.1 General................................................................................................................................... 59
4.6.2 Reclaim Water Pond............................................................................................................... 59
4.6.3 Seepage Management............................................................................................................. 61
5.0
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
6.0
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
7.0
7.1
7.2
7.3
8.0

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION......................................................................................... 62
GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................... 62
SOILS ........................................................................................................................................... 62
AIR QUALITY ............................................................................................................................... 62
VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE ....................................................................................................... 63
WATER QUALITY ......................................................................................................................... 63
RECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION ......................................................................................... 64
DOCUMENTATION ........................................................................................................................ 64
SAFETY AND SECURITY.......................................................................................................... 65
GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................... 65
WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY ................................................................................................... 65
SITE SECURITY ............................................................................................................................ 66
EMPLOYEE TRAINING .................................................................................................................. 67
DOCUMENTATION ........................................................................................................................ 67
MAINTENANCE .......................................................................................................................... 68
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................. 68
EVENT- DRIVEN MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................... 68
DOCUMENTATION ........................................................................................................................ 69
FACILITY SURVEILLANCE .................................................................................................... 70

8.1
GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................... 70
8.2
MONITORING EQUIPMENT............................................................................................................ 70
8.2.1
Piezometers ........................................................................................................................ 71
8.2.2
Staff Gauges ....................................................................................................................... 71
8.2.3
Seepage Monitoring Wells ................................................................................................. 71
8.2.4
Accelerometers................................................................................................................... 72
8.2.5
Flow Meter......................................................................................................................... 72
8.3
MONITORING FREQUENCY ........................................................................................................... 72
8.4
INSPECTIONS ................................................................................................................................ 73
8.4.1
Regular Inspections ........................................................................................................... 74
8.4.1.1

Routine Daily Inspections - Instrumentation ................................................................................ 74


MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual x TOC-iii

8.4.1.2
8.4.1.3
8.4.1.4

8.4.2

Inspection after Extreme Events......................................................................................... 77

8.4.2.1
8.4.2.2
8.4.2.3

9.0
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
10.0

Earthquake.................................................................................................................................... 77
Flood............................................................................................................................................. 77
Landslide ...................................................................................................................................... 78

DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING ................................................................................. 79


DATABASE ................................................................................................................................... 79
FILING WRITTEN REPORTS .......................................................................................................... 79
STORING ELECTRONIC DATA ........................................................................................................ 79
RETRIEVING ELECTRONIC DATA.................................................................................................. 80
FILING REPORTS BY OTHERS ....................................................................................................... 80
ANNUAL OPERATIONS MANUAL UPDATE .................................................................................... 80
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN ............................................................................................ 82

10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.4.1
10.4.2
10.5
10.5.1
10.5.2
10.5.3
10.6
10.6.1
10.6.2
10.6.3
10.6.4
10.6.5
10.6.6
10.6.7
10.7
11.0

Routine Daily Inspections - Visual............................................................................................... 74


Comprehensive Inspections .......................................................................................................... 76
Intermediate Inspections............................................................................................................... 76

OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................. 82
RESPONSIBILITIES.................................................................................................................... 82
EMERGENCY SUPPLIES AND RESOURCES ................................................................................. 84
EMERGENCY CONDITIONS ....................................................................................................... 84
Earthquake......................................................................................................................... 84
Flooding............................................................................................................................. 85
FAILURE CONDITIONS ............................................................................................................. 86
Failure is in Progress ........................................................................................................ 86
Failure is Imminent............................................................................................................ 87
Failure is Developing......................................................................................................... 87
RESPONSE ACTIONS IF THERE IS .............................................................................................. 87
Slide on the Downstream Slope of the Embankment.......................................................... 87
Loss of Freeboard .............................................................................................................. 88
Excessive Seepage.............................................................................................................. 88
Excessive Embankment Settlement..................................................................................... 88
High Phreatic Surface in Embankment.............................................................................. 88
Embankment Cracking....................................................................................................... 88
Seeps, Sandboils, and Sinkhole Development .................................................................... 89
POST-FAILURE ACTIONS ......................................................................................................... 89

SCHEDULE................................................................................................................................... 90

LIST OF TABLES
Table No.

Description

1-1
2-1
2-2
3-1
3-2
3-3
3-4
3-5
3-6
3-7
3-8
4-2-1
4-3-1
4-3-2

Operations Manual Distribution List


Roles & Responsibilities
Recommended Training Requirements
Meteorological Stations Coordinates and Years of Record
Maximum Rainfalls at Different Return Periods
Probable Maximum Precipitation
Waste Water Discharge and Water Quality Standards Summary
Air Quality Standards Summary
Air Emissions Standards
Cerro Verde TSF-Design Basis
Cerro Verde TSF-Design Criteria
Ramp-up Production Rates
Daily Water Volume and Flow Rate for Start-up Water Filling Plan
Problem-Solution Matrix for TSF Construction
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September2006

4-3-3
4-3-4
4-4-1
4-5-1
4-5-2
4-5-3
7-1
8-1
8-2
8-3

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual x TOC-iv

Embankment Crest and Slope Areas


Summary of QC/QA Observation Parameters
Impoundment Deposition Points
Estimated Jacking Header Line Extensions and Raise Rates
Left Abutment Limestone Protective Blanket
Planned Instrumentation Expansion Schedule
Maintenance Program Filing System
Seepage Flow Rates at V Notch Weir
Monitoring Instruments
TSF Inspection Program

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.

Description

2-1
2-2
2-3
3-1
3-2
3-3
4-2-1
4-2-2

Concentrator Management Organisational Chart


General TSF Organizational Chart
Detailed TSF Organizational Chart
Site Location Map
Primary Sulfide Project Facility Layout Plan
Engineering Geology Map
Tailing Particle Size Distributions
Average Daily Tailing Production Rate and Minimum Required Cycloned Sand for
that Production Rate
Starter Dam Configuration and Material Zones
Ultimate Embankment Cross-Section
Schematic of Startup Embankment Construction Sequence
Estimated Impoundment and Embankment Elevations with Time
Estimated Time for Construction of a Complete Embankment Lift vs. Time
Embankment Rate of Rise (m/week)
Embankment Crest Deposition
Initial and Final Underflow and Overflow Header Alignments (East Abutment)
Profiles along the Initial Underflow and Overflow Header Alignments (East
Abutment)
February 1, 2008 3D Embankment Model El. 2500 m
October 1, 2008 3D Embankment Model El. 2514 m
December 1, 2008 3D Embankment Model El. 2518 m
February 1, 2009 3D Embankment Model El. 2520 m
June 1, 2009 3D Embankment Model El. 2525 m
October 1, 2009 3D Embankment Model El. 2530 m
Embankment Instrumentation Plan Capital Construction
Embankment Instrumentation Sections Capital Construction
Embankment Instrumentation Plan Operations
Embankment Instrumentation Sections Operations
Impoundment Filling Plan - Year 1
Impoundment Filling Plan - Year 2
Impoundment Filling Plan - Year 4
Impoundment Filling Plan - Year 10
Impoundment Filling Plan Year - 15
Impoundment Filling Plan Year - 22 (End of Operations)
Plan of Blanket and Finger Drains
Typical Embankment Underdrains Sections and Details
Left Abutment Limestone Area Protective Measures
Cross-Sections A-A and B-B Limestone Area Protective Measures

4-3-1
4-3-2
4-3-3
4-3-4
4-3-5
4-3-6
4-3-7
4-3-8
4-3-9
4-3-10
4-3-11
4-3-12
4-3-13
4-3-14
4-3-15
4-3-16
4-3-17
4-3-18
4-3-19
4-4-1
4-4-2
4-4-3
4-4-4
4-4-5
4-4-6
4-5-1
4-5-2
4-5-3
4-5-4

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September2006

11-1

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual x TOC-v

TSF Construction and Operations Schedule

LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A
Appendix B
Appendix C
Appendix D

OM Revision and Holders Record


Environmental Management Plan for the Tailing Storage Facility Operations
Forms
Sustaining Capital and Operations Cost

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF* Operations Manual X 1

1.0
1.1

INTRODUCTION

DOCUMENT PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this document is to serve as a reference manual for personnel involved in the
construction and operation of the Cerro Verde Tailing Storage Facility (TSF) during its life cycle. The
document should be kept current and should be revised periodically. This manual was prepared by
MWH in support of the detailed design of the Cerro Verde TSF that was performed during the period
from January 2005 to April 2006. It forms part of the following multi-volume compendium
supporting final design of the Cerro Verde TSF:
Volume 1 Summary Report
Volume 2 Geological and Geotechnical Site Investigations and Assessments
Volume 3 PMP and Rainfall Frequency Analysis
Volume 4 Seepage Analysis
Volume 5 Material Balance Analysis
Volume 6 Water Balance Analysis
Volume 7 Static and Seismic Stability Analyses
Volume 8 Seepage Collection System Design
Volume 9 Operations Manual
Volume 10 Drawings
The objectives of the operations manual are to define and describe the following:

Roles and responsibilities of the personnel assigned to the facility

The key components of the facility

The procedures required to construct, operate, monitor and maintain the facility so that it
functions in accordance to its design, and meets regulatory and corporate policy obligations

Emergency response procedures

Requirements for documentation and reporting

Requirements for Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC)

This document does not address the operation and maintenance of the following facility components:

Mechanical and electrical systems


Cyclone station
Pump stations
Tailing delivery, water supply, and water return pipelines

The operation and maintenance of the mechanical and electrical systems are addressed in Area 3800
prepared by Flour/PSI/SMCV.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

1.2

Cerro Verde TSF* Operations Manual X 2

REGISTERED DOCUMENT HOLDERS

This Operations Manual will be revised, maintained and distributed by the Tailing Superintendent.
Each copy of the manual is assigned an identification number for tracking purposes. The initial
distribution list for the Operations Manual is provided in Table 1-1.
TABLE 1-1
OPERATIONS MANUAL DISTRIBUTION LIST
Department/
Position
Name
Company
General Manager
Cerro Verde
Jesus Figueroa
Operations Manager
Operations
Jim Vanderbeek
Concentrator Manager
Concentrator
Oxide Plant Superintendent
Concentrator
Tailing Superintendent
Concentrator
Angel Manchego
Engineering Superintendent
Engineering
Health, Safety, and
Health, Safety and
Environmental Superintendent
Environmental
Maintenance Superintendent
Maintenance
Control Supervisor
Concentrator
Cyclone Station Operator
Concentrator
Tailing Deposition System
Concentrator
Operator
Designer (Engineer of Record)
MWH
James Obermeyer
Review Board
ETRB
ETRB

Copy No.
1
2
3
4
5,6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14

The Tailing Superintendent is responsible for maintaining an up-to-date list of registered holders of
the Operations Manual (Table A-1 in Appendix A). Each registered holder of the Operations Manual,
including the Tailing Superintendent, must acknowledge responsibility for learning the contents of this
document by returning a signed copy of the transmittal letter to the Tailing Superintendent within two
weeks of receipt of this document (Table A-2 in Appendix A).
1.3

OPERATIONS MANUAL REVIEW AND UPDATE

This Operations Manual will be reviewed by Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A. (SMCV) on an
annual basis to address continual improvement and changes in the conditions and operation of the
TSF. A review of the Operations Manual will also be required after a significant accident related to the
operations of the TSF.
All registered users of the Operations Manual are encouraged to provide comments and suggestions
for improvement of the manual and the procedures specified in it. The comments and suggestions
should be forwarded to the Tailing Superintendent and to the Designer (MWH) for consideration in
the annual review of the document. The Tailing Superintendent is responsible for reviewing, updating
and improving the manual, but no changes to the design criteria, design details, or specifications shall
me made without the review and approval of MWH.
The Tailing Superintendent is also responsible for implementing changes to the design and operation
of the TSF when required. Revisions to the design and operation of the TSF will be performed
according to the following steps:
Step 1: Define need for change in design or operation.
Step 2: Coordinate with other mine operations to evaluate the impacts of the proposed
change.
Step 3: Coordinate with TSF designers to obtain authorization for the change.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF* Operations Manual X 3

Step 4: Communicate and coordinate the change with regulatory authorities and external
stakeholders.
Step 5: Obtain necessary permits.
Step 6: Modify the Operations Manual to address the change.
Step 7: Implement the change.
Potential situations that may result in a manual review and update are evolution of the design through
capacity change, operational efficiencies, closure requirements, performance feedback, management
changes, regulatory changes, variations of performance from design, and suggestions for
improvement. Table A-3 in Appendix A should be updated to record any revisions of this document.
1.4

PROJECT HISTORY AND SCHEDULE

SMCV is in the process of development of the Cerro Verde Primary Sulfide Project. Phelps Dodge
Mining Company (PD) is the majority shareholder and operator of SMCV.
In 2001 and 2002, PD initiated scoping level studies to evaluate alternative TSF sites and tailing
embankment construction methods. The results of these studies were presented in reports entitled
Tailing Scoping Study, dated December 2001, Scoping Level Study for Tailing Deposition at A5
Site, dated January 2002, and Scoping Level Study for Tailing Deposition at the A9 Site, dated
March 2002, by URS. In 2003, Fluor completed the Cerro Verde Primary Sulfide Project Feasibility
Study Report. Part of the report was the Tailing Embankment Feasibility Design Report by URS,
dated June 2004.
As a part of the final design, SMCV contracted Montgomery Watson Harza Americas, Inc. (MWH) to
develop final designs for the civil and geotechnical elements of the TSF. The MWH work scope
consisted of site investigations, engineering analyses, design drawings, and specifications for the
Starter Dam and Seepage Collection System, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for elements
of the TSF within MWHs scope of work. Final engineering design for the TSF was performed by
MWH during the period from January 2005 to April 2006. Other design components of the TSF, such
as tailing delivery system, cyclone stations, reclaim water system, and pump-back water system from
the seepage collection system were designed by Fluor Mining and Minerals (Fluor).
Permit for construction of the TSF was obtained from the Ministry of Energy and Mining (MEM) in
September 2004. Construction of the Starter Dam was initiated in April 2005 and is scheduled to be
completed in August 2006. Concentrator start-up is scheduled for November 1, 2006. Construction
and operation of the TSF is planned to take place over a period of approximately 22 years.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

2.0
2.1

Cerro Verde TSF* Operations Manual X 4

ROLES, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS


GENERAL

A Cerro Verde TSF Management Team has been assembled to oversee the design, construction and
operation of the TSF. The management structure is based on the principles outlined in the Mining
Association of Canada Guide to the Management of Tailing Facilities. The organizational chart of the
Cerro Verde TSF Management Team is presented in Figure 2-1. The team will be supervised by the
Concentrator Manager with support from maintenance, environmental and engineering departments
at SMCV.
2.2

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

Figures 2-2 and 2-3 illustrate the organizational structure that will be used to operate the TSF. The
Organization Chart considers the following:

There will be 5 Shift Supervisors during all periods of operation of the TSF.

There will be 4 Cyclone Station Operators during all periods of operation of the TSF.

There will be 1 Tailing Embankment Specialist during all periods of operation of the TSF.

There will be 2 QA/QC Supervisors during all periods of operation of the TSF.

There will be 1 Surveyor during all periods of operation of the TSF.

There will be 18 Tailing Deposition System Operators during all daily operations of the TSF, and
14 Tailing Deposition System Operators during all night operations of the TSF.

There will be an independent 3rd party engineering firm (Engineer of Record) with a full time
presence to manage and implement the QA/QC program and to monitor and document
compliance of the operations and construction with the design requirements for the TSF. The
Designer is preferred for this role.

2.3

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The roles and responsibilities for each position and the authority during the operational cycle of the
TSF are presented in Table 2-1.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF* Operations Manual X 5

TABLE 2-1
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Position

Role

Responsibility

Overall
Coordination

Senior TSF operations and construction oversight.


Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Coordinate with other areas of the mine that may impact the tailing operations.
Coordinate with other departments of the mine that will provide support for the tailing operations.
Maintain relationships with external stakeholders related to the TSF.
Safety/HERA oversight

Concentrator Manager

Overall
Management

Senior TSF operations and construction oversight.


Coordinate with other areas of the mine that impact the tailing operations.
Coordinate with other departments of the mine that will provide support for the tailing operations.
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Ensure development, implementation and application of Safety/HERA program

Concentrator
Superintendent

Plant Manager

Coordinate tailing production with Tailing Superintendent

Participate in start-up and commissioning.


Implement Operations Manual
Develop, implement, and apply Safety/HERA program for tailing facility
Prepare reports according to the Operations Manual.
Update the Operations Manual.
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Detect and communicate potential problems related to the tailing operation to upper level management.
Schedule sustaining capital investments.
Coordinate with other areas of the mine that may impact the tailing operations.
Coordinate work of sub-contractors to operate and maintain the TSF.
Coordinate with other departments of the mine that will provide support for the tailing operations.
Monitor and update closure plan as required.
Implement activities as required by the operational permits for the TSF.
Perform monitoring according to operational requirements.
Update the Operations and Maintenance Manuals
Maintain spare parts and equipment inventory.
Maintain the document control system for the TSF.
Maintain TSF equipment maintenance records.
Stay up to date on new laws and permit requirements that relate to tailing operations.
Prepare operation and sustaining capital budgets.
Implement adjustments to the tailing pipeline operation.
Wear monitoring of the pipelines.
Update the water balance according to this Operations Manual.
Prepare and update training programs for TSF personnel.
Provide input to development, implementation, and application of Safety/HERA program
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Implement Project Execution Plans for sustaining capital investments.
Manage sustaining capital investment projects until they are turned over to operations.
Implement independent review and audits of the TSF.
rd
Implement appropriate QA/QC through an independent 3 party (preferably the Designer)
Provide support for monitoring the construction of the cycloned underflow raises to the TSF embankment.
Provide technical support.
Provide resources for TSF repair and cleanup.
Interpretation of operational monitoring results
Provide input to development, implementation, and application of Safety/HERA program
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Implement activities as required by the environmental permits for the TSF.
Perform monitoring according to environmental requirements.
Incorporate the TSF into the SMCV site environmental management program.
Ensure that SMCV environmental policies, guidelines and procedures are followed.
Provide environmental training and technical support for exclusive tailing facility personnel.
Interpret environmental monitoring data.
Report non-compliance to the Tailing Superintendent.
Validate environmental laboratory test results.
Download and process meteorological data collected at the project site.
Provide input to development, implementation, and application of Safety/HERA program
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Provide emergency maintenance assistance during night shifts.
Provide training and technical support for exclusive tailing facility maintenance personnel.
Ensure that maintenance for the TSF is performed according to SMCVBT guidelines and procedures.
Provide support to update the Operations and Maintenance Manuals
Provide support to maintain spare parts and equipment inventory.
Provide input to development, implementation, and application of Safety/HERA program
Proactively monitor ongoing Safety/HERA program for Tailing Facility
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Detect and communicate potential Health and Safety problems related to the tailing operation to upper level
management.
Provide health and safety training for exclusive TSF personnel.
Ensure that health and safety programs and policies for the TSF are performed according to SMCV guidelines and
procedures.
Incorporate the TSF into the overall SMCV site Health and Safety Plan.
Inspect the TSF related to Health and Safety requirements
Supervise and ensure day to day application of Safety/HERA program
Supervise TSF operations.
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Detect and communicate potential problems related to the tailing operation to upper level management.
Supervise, control and operate the TSF, according to this Operations Manual and related Operations and
Maintenance Manuals.
Supervise, control and operate the TSF reclaim water station according to this Operations Manual and related
Operations and Maintenance Manuals
Supervise, control and operate the TSF tailing pump station according to this Operations Manual and related
Operations and Maintenance Manual prepared by Fluor.
Day to day application of Safety/HERA program
Supervise tailing distribution line operators and cycloned sand placement.
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Detect and communicate potential problems related to the tailing operation to upper level management.
Supervise, control and operate the TSF cyclone station and scalping cyclone station according to this Operations
Manual and related Operations and Maintenance Manuals.
Provide local site support to operate the TSF reclaim water barges.
Day to day application of Safety/HERA program
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Detect and communicate potential problems related to the tailing operation to upper level management.
Operate the tailing distribution lines from the cyclone station to the impoundment according to this Operations
Manual and related Operations and Maintenance Manuals.
Day to day application of Safety/HERA program
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Detect and communicate potential problems related to the tailing operation to upper level management.
Implement the Operations and Maintenance Manuals.
Control and replace the spare parts on a continual basis
Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.
Perform quarterly reviews of the TSF for compliance with design considerations and specifications.
Support monitoring and monthly Operations Manual reporting requirements.
Review instrumentation data
Update Water Balance and Material Balance
Provide technical support through the Tailing Superintendent including QA/QC program support and
implementation/documentation
Ensure HERA and Safety principles are designed into the system

Provide recommendations for improvement of the tailing operations.


Perform annual reviews of the TSF for compliance with SMCV and international standards of practice.

Operations Manager

Tailing Superintendent

Manager of
Tailing System

Engineering
Superintendent

TSF Stability and


repairs

Environmental
Superintendent

TSF
environmental
compliance /
MEM reporting

Maintenance
Superintendent

TSF pumps,
electrical and
piping
maintenance

Health and Safety


Superintendent

Facility and
personnel health
and safety

Shift Supervisor

Primary
operations
responsibility
(day to day)

Cyclone Station
Operator

Operation of
cyclone station

Tailing Deposition
System Operator

Operation /
rotation of spigots

Electrical/ Mechanical
Technician

Performance of
maintenance

Designer (Engineer of
record)

TSF engineering
design and
modifications

Tailing Review Board

TSF compliance
with SMCV, Peru
and International
Standards

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

Authority
Authorize dam operation and sustaining capital budgets

Assign resources to Tailing Superintendent consistent with capital and


operational budgets
Hire/replace Tailing Superintendent
Decision to divert flows to auxiliary system during emergencies
Coordinate with other areas
Decision to shutdown concentrator and TSF during emergencies

Decision to divert flows to auxiliary system during emergencies


Decision to shutdown the Concentrator during emergencies

Decision to divert flows to auxiliary system during emergencies


Hire/replace TSF operational staff
Decision to shutdown the tailing operations during environmental
problems.

Carryout assigned duties / responsibilities


Recommend actions to Tailing Superintendent resulting from
interpretation of instrumentation and monitoring data

Carryout assigned duties / responsibilities

Carry out assigned duties / responsibilities

Direct health and safety plan development.


Oversee plan implementation.
Ability to stop activities deemed imminently dangerous.

Recommend emergency tailing diversion or mill shutdown to Tailing


Superintendent
Carryout assigned duties / responsibilities

Carry out assigned duties / responsibilities

Carry out assigned duties / responsibilities

Carry out assigned duties / responsibilities

Actions through recommendations to Operations Manager

Actions through recommendations to Operations Manager

September 2006

2.4

Cerro Verde TSF* Operations Manual X 6

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

The recommended training requirements are summarized in Table 2-2.


TABLE 2-2
RECOMMENDED TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Emergency
Response
Plans Training

Concentrator Manager

Concentrator
Superintendent

Tailing Superintendent

Engineering Superintendent

Control Supervisor

Cyclone Station Operator

Environmental
Superintendent
Maintenance Superintendent
Health and Safety
Superintendent

Tailing Deposition System


Operator
Electrical/ Mechanical
Technician
Designer (Engineer of
record)
Technical Review Board

Environmental
Training

SCADA and
DCS Training

Operations Manager

Position

Occupational
Health and
Safety Training

Operations
Manual Plan
Review

Operations and
Maintenance
Manual Review

Induction
Training

CQA Closeout
Report Review

Recommended Training

X
X

X
X

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 7

3.0
3.1

FACILITY DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The Cerro Verde Mine is located in the District of Uchumayo, Province of Arequipa, Department of
Arequipa. The Cerro Verde Mine has been in operation since the early 1970s. The current operation
consists of two open pits: Cerro Verde and Santa Rosa, a heap-leach operation, and an SX/EW plant
to produce copper cathode. The ore is processed through primary, secondary and tertiary crushers and
placed on a leach pad after agglomeration. The produced copper cathode is loaded into trucks and
shipped to the Port of Matarani, some 90 km west from the mine. The general site location is shown
in Figure 3-1.
We understand that according to the current mine plans higher-grade leachable material would be
depleted by year 2025. Run of mine (ROM) ore will continue to be stacked until 2035. Sulfide
mineralized ore was identified as a result of the exploration programs at the mine. Processing the
sulfide ore requires the construction of a concentrating plant and a TSF to store the tailing materials
produced as a part of the concentration operations.
3.2

FACILITY LOCATION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The TSF site is located approximately 16 km southeast of the town of Arequipa in southern Peru. The
TSF will be built in the Quebrada Enlozada immediately north of the processing plant, as is shown on
Figure 3-2. The facility will consist of an 85 m high zoned rockfill starter dam, a 260 m high
embankment constructed of cycloned tailing sand by the centerline method, and a tailing
impoundment that will cover an area of approximately 453 Ha. The latitude and longitude of the
Quebrada Enlozada at the location of the Starter Dam are S16 29 34 and W71 36 20,
respectively. The base of the Quebrada Enlozada at the location of the Starter Dam is at an
approximate elevation of 2400 m above mean sea level (amsl). The elevation of the processing plant is
about 2,700 m amsl. The Starter Dam crest elevation will be at 2485 m amsl and the ultimate
embankment crest elevation will be 2660 m amsl.
Tailing generated in the flotation process will be sent to two high capacity thickeners that will thicken
the tailing slurry from about 27% solids to about 55% solids by weight. The thickened slurry will be
conveyed by gravity through a 48-inch diameter HDPE SDR 21 pipeline to a cyclone station located
on the right (East) abutment of the tailing embankment. At the cyclone station, the slurry will undergo
two-stage cycloning to separate the sand fraction from the fine fraction. Silty sand (the underflow) will
be used for embankment construction, and the fines (the overflow) will be discharged into the
impoundment.
A reclaim water pond will be maintained at the rear (upstream) end of the impoundment. Water from
the reclaim water pond will be recycled to the processing plant for reuse and to the cyclone station for
dilution. Seepage from the embankment will be collected by a network of finger and blanket drains
and conveyed to a seepage collection sump located immediately downstream of the ultimate
embankment toe. The water will then be pumped from the sump to the cyclone station and reused as
dilution water.
A scalping cyclone station located at the processing plant site will come in operation after the 1st year.
The purpose of the scalping station is to provide tailing overflow materials for deposition in locations
where trapped water (i.e. water that would be inaccessible for recovery by the reclaim water return
system) could accumulate. The scalping cyclone station is designed (by Fluor) to process up to 20% of
the whole tailing feed from the plant. The separated sand will be combined with the remainder of the
tailing feed from the concentrator and sent to the central cyclone station for subsequent cycloning at
the main cyclone station. The overflow from the scalping cyclone station will be used for deposition
from the upstream end of the facility as required for pond management.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 8

Make-up water to the plant to compensate for the losses at the TSF will be conveyed from Rio Chili
via an 11.5 km long freshwater delivery pipeline. Prior to the start-up of the operations, water from
Rio Chili will be pumped upstream of the Starter dam to form a start-up water pond. The required
start-up water volume estimated by Fluor is 1,000,000 m3.
3.3

SITE CONDITIONS

The following information describes the local landscape, topography, climatological conditions,
seismicity, and site geology.
3.3.1

Landscape and Topography

The Cerro Verde Mine is located on the west slope of the Andes Mountains, in the south segment of
what is referred to as the Coastal Batholith. The mine is situated on a plateau that has been eroded and
dissected by numerous dry stream valleys to form locally steep and rugged. Elevations in the region
range from about 2,300 to almost 3,000 m amsl.
3.3.2

Climate and Hydrology

The climate of the area is mild and arid with temperatures fluctuating between 10 and 24C and
average annual precipitation of approximately 36 mm. The rainstorms occur seasonally and are
typically of short duration and high intensity. Over 90% of the annual rainfall is recorded during the
months of January, February and March. The recorded evaporation exceeds the precipitation over 60
times. The estimated average annual evaporation rate is about 6.1 mm/day. The humidity ranges from
about 30% in July to about 70% in February. The prevailing winds in the area are from the northeast.
The region is characterized by distinct microclimate areas. Although located only a few kilometers
away from the mine site, the Rio Chili valley receives significantly more rain than the area of the Cerro
Verde mine. Based on general observations, the rainstorms are usually isolated in small areas, rather
than covering a larger region. The rainstorms are typically of short duration and high intensity. These
storms can cause unexpected floods with large peak flow rates in streambeds that are usually dry. The
floods may entrain large amounts of sediment and debris and may cause damage to the local roads and
infrastructure
There are several meteorological stations located within about 15 km of the mine site. The coordinates
and years of record of the meteorological stations that are closest to the project site are presented in
Table 3-1.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 9

TABLE 3-1
METEOROLOGICAL STATIONS COORDINATES AND YEARS OF RECORD
COORDINATES
Meteorological
Station
Cerro Verde South
Zone

La Pampilla

Latitude

Longitude

Elevation

16 32' 23"

71 35' 47"

2688 m

Data Description and Years of


Record
1995 2004 daily data
1964-1977 max annual 24-hr
data (from KP)

16 24' 13"

71 31' 6"

2360 m

Socabaya

16 28'

71 32'

2339 m

1966-1996 daily data


(purchased from Senamhi)

Huasacache*

16 28'

71 33"

2242

1997-2005 daily data


(purchased from Senamhi)

1978-2004 daily data


(purchased from Senamhi)

*The Huasacache station replaced the Socabaya station in 1997. It was assumed that the Huasacache Station data is part
of the Socabaya Station data.

The closest meteorological station is situated immediately south of the Cerro Verde pit and the
collected data is considered to be the most representative of the climate of the area. However, data is
available only since 1995 and is considered insufficient for hydrological studies. Other meteorological
stations in the vicinity of the mine include the La Pampilla, Huasacache, and Socabaya stations, which
are regional stations managed by Perus National Weather Service (Senamhi). The Huasacache and
Socabaya stations located in the Ro Chili valley are closest to the mine site and have the longest
period of record (since 1966). The Huasacache and Socabaya stations were used to conduct rainfall
frequency analyses and estimate the probable maximum precipitation (PMP) event for incorporation
into the design and engineering of the TSF. Average precipitation at the Huasacache and Socabaya
stations over the period of record is approximately 68 mm per year, which is substantially higher than
that recorded at the Cerro Verde South station and therefore more conservative for the purpose of
facility design and management. A summary of the results of the rainfall frequency analysis performed
using the data from the Huasacache and Socabaya stations is presented in Table 3-2. Detailed
descriptions of the analyses are available in Volume 3 PMP and Rainfall Frequency Analyses.
TABLE 3-2
MAXIMUM RAINFALLS AT DIFFERENT RETURN PERIODS
Return Period (Year)
24-Hour (mm)
48-Hour (mm)
2
13.3
17.0
5
23.7
29.4
10
30.6
37.7
25
39.2
48.1
50
45.7
55.8
100
52.1
63.5
500
66.9
81.2

72-Hour (mm)
20.1
36.1
46.7
60.1
70.0
79.8
102.5

The estimated Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) for the project site for a range of durations is
presented in Table 3-3.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 10

Duration (hour)
1
2
3
4
5
6
12
18
24

TABLE 3-3
PROBABLE MAXIMUM PRECIPITATION
PMP (mm)
Duration (hour)
50
30
80
36
100
42
116
48
128
54
138
60
179
66
215
72
242

PMP (mm)
265
286
307
324
343
360
376
391

The estimated drainage area contributing to the tailing impoundment site is 8.1 km2. The estimated
total flood volume of the 72-hour PMP is 2,693,530 m3. The estimated peak Probable Maximum
Flood inflow is 95.6 m3/sec. These values will be updated when a longer period of record of the Cerro
Verde South Zone Station becomes available.
3.3.3

Seismicity

The TSF site is located in the Big Bend of the Peru-Chile subduction zone. Since 1471 some 20
earthquakes larger than MM (Modified Mercalli) Intensity IX have been recorded in this region.
Deterministic and probabilistic seismic hazard evaluations were performed as part of feasibility studies
conducted by URS (URS, 2004). The results of these studies indicated that the design basis
earthquake (DBE) would be the maximum credible earthquake (MCE) occurring along the Southern
portion of the Peru-Chile subduction zone at a source-to-site distance of about 65 km from the TSF
site. The DBE was specified as a moment magnitude 9.0 (Mw) megathrust earthquake producing a
peak horizontal acceleration at the top of bedrock of 0.47g at the TSF site. The selected MCE is
associated with return periods of about 2,000 to 3,000 years. The seismic hazard evaluations
performed by URS were included in Volume 7 Static and Seismic Stability Analyses.
3.3.4

Geology

Rocks that outcrop in the region include Precambrian gneiss that is overlain by a sequence of Jurassic
to Tertiary age sedimentary units, extrusive volcanic units, and intrusive volcanic and igneous units.
The region has a number of strong structural trends, including a predominant northwest to southeast
trends, as well as east to west and northeast to southwest trends. The northwest trending structures
are predominant at the Cerro Verde Mine, with joint, fault, and geologic contact trends having this
general orientation. The geology of the TSF site consists of a metamorphic basement unit that has
been overlain by a sequence of volcanic and sedimentary units that have been subsequently intruded.
The valley bottom beneath the Tailing Embankment site is underlain by coarse dense alluvial outwash
containing occasional pockets of volcanic ash. A thin veneer of colluvium covers the abutment slopes
though rock outcrops are frequent. A large faulted block Middle Jurassic Limestone referred to as the
Socosani Formation bounds the upper Left Abutment. This unit lies unconformably on top of a
Lower Jurassic Volcanic unit referred to as the Chocolate Formation. The lower Left Abutment
consists of Cretaceous Gabbro, Diorite, and Andesite that has intruded the Chocolate and Socasani
Formations. Subsequent intrusion by the Cretaceous Yarabamba Granodiorite has resulted in the
presence of numerous dikes throughout the Left Abutment and a later intrusion of the Tiabaya
Granodiorite has resulted in a massive granodiorite outcrop adjacent to the crest of the Right
Abutment. Subsequent intrusions of Microgranite are evident in the upper southeast portion of the
impoundment. A geologic map of the project site is presented in Figure 3-3. Detailed descriptions and
results of the geotechnical investigations are presented in Volume 2 Geological and Geotechnical
Site Investigations and Assessments.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

3.4

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 11

DESIGN BASIS AND CRITERIA

The general objective of the final design of the TSF was to provide storage for the planned tailing
materials in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Specific project objectives for the
embankment design are to:

Satisfy internationally accepted stability criteria for embankment construction in areas of high
seismicity.

Minimize risk of seepage into the environment; aim at achieving zero discharge facility. A zero
discharge facility in this case refers to a TSF and its ancillary facilities designed where necessary
with liners to prevent seepage or with pump back systems to collect potential seepage, so that no
contaminated seepage that can harm the environment is released.

Cost effectively incorporate locally available materials for construction without compromising
safety.

Satisfy all Peruvian regulatory requirements associated with construction of TSF.

3.4.1

Compliance of Standards and Regulations

The operation of the Cerro Verde TSF should comply with the regulations, standards and guidelines
issued by the Peruvian Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM), Ministry of Agriculture (MA), Ministry
of Health (MH), and the National Environmental Council (CONAM). To assure these standards are
satisfied, an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) was developed. The PSP ESMP
will be updated periodically throughout the life of the project in order to reflect operational and
regulatory changes, to respond to monitoring results and incorporate improvements in environmental
mitigation procedures. The ESMP will be the mandating document for all environmental and social
management, mitigation and monitoring, and should be consulted in conjunction with this TSF
Operations manual.
The regulations described in this section are those specifically related to the operation of the TSF,
including general regulations applicable to all mining facilities and also specific regulations established
in the Cerro Verde PSP EIA and ESMP; it is important to note that the environmental monitoring
programs (such as meteorological, biological and geotechnical monitoring), included in the PSP EIA
become legal obligations applicable to the TSF upon approval of the EIA, in accordance with the
Peruvian legal framework.
Water Quality Regulations
The MEM has developed water monitoring guidelines and requirements for monitoring frequency,
locations and maximum permissible levels of parameters for designated mine effluent discharge
presented in Ministerial Resolution No. 011-96-EM/VMM (MEM, 1996a). In addition, the MA, in
conjunction with the MH have developed water quality guidelines for receiving beneficial use waters
presented in Supreme Decree No. 007-83-SA (MH/MA, 1983); some parameters were modified later
in 2003 (Supreme Decree No. 003-2003-SA). These norms establish water quality standards for the
protection of receiving water bodies in accordance with the level of treatment and their use.
Receiving water bodies are categorized as Classes I to VI, as follows:

Class I: Domestic water supply with simple disinfection


Class II: Treatment water supply equivalent to combined mixing and coagulation processes,
settling, filtration and chlorination, approved by the Department of Health
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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 12

Class III: Water used to irrigate raw-eaten vegetables and water consumed by animals
Class IV: Water in recreational areas with primary contact (public toilets and similar uses)
Class V: Water for fishing bivalve shellfishes
Class VI: Water in aquatic or native preservation areas and for commercial fishing

The only receiving water body near the project area is the Ro Chili, which is classified as Class III. A
summary of the updated water quality standards for mine effluents and Class III waters are presented
in Table 3-4.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 13

TABLE 3-4
WASTE WATER DISCHARGE AND WATER QUALITY STANDARDS SUMMARY

Parameters

Units

MEM (1)- Regulatory


Maximum Permissible
Levels (MPL) for Mine
Effluents

General Water Law


- Per Water

(2)

World Bank
Guidelines(3)

Class III
ANIONS, NUTRIENTS AND GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
Dissolved oxygen

mg/l

3(a)

(BOD)

mg/l

15

Nitrate as N

mg/l

Sulfide

mg/l

100(b)

pH

s.u.

6.0 - 9.0

6.0 9.0

TSS

mg/l

50

50

Cyanide, total

mg/l

Cyanide, free

mg/l

0.1

Cyanide, WAD

mg/l

0.2

Hexane extractable oil and


grease

mg/l

Fenols

mg/l

0.1
0.1

0.5

0.5

10
-

(c)

METALS
Arsenic

mg/l

Cadmium

mg/l

Chromium

mg/l

Copper

mg/l

Iron

mg/l

Lead

mg/l

0.4

Mercury

mg/l

Nickel

mg/l

Selenium

mg/l

Zinc
BACTERIAS

mg/l

Coliforms, total(d)
(d)

Coliforms, fecal

0.2

0.1

0.05

0.1

0.1

0.5

0.5
3.5

0.1

0.2

0.01

0.01
0.5

0.05

25

MPN/100ml

5,000

MPN/100ml

1,000

Notes:
(a)

Minimum required.

(b)

The Maximum Permissible Level (MPL) for Nitrate specified in the General Water Law of Peru is 100 mg/m3, which is about 1,000 times lower than
international standards. It is believed that the MPL should be 100 mg/l (for Class III), and the specified in the Law units are incorrect.

(c)
The General Law of Waters of Peru and the WB refer to the total metals content; The MEM values refer to the dissolved fraction.
(d)
Considered as the maximum value in 80% of 5 or more monthly samples
(e)
The cells with no values indicate that no standards nor guidelines have been set up for this parameter
Information Sources:
MEM Ministry of Mining and Energy (1996 and 1997).
1
MS Ministry of Health, Class II, Class III and Class VI (2003); MS/MA Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture, Class II, Class III and Class VI
2
(1983).
World Bank Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook, Base Metal and Iron Ore Mining, 1998.
3

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 14

Air Quality Regulations


Air quality monitoring procedures, maximum permissible limits for emissions from miningmetallurgical activities and air quality standards were regulated by the MEM under Ministerial
Resolution No. 315-96-EM/VMM (MEM, 1996b). Later, national air quality standards for residential
areas have been established by CONAM under Supreme Decree No. 074-2001-PCM (CONAM,
2001) and Supreme Decree N 069-2003-PCM (2003), replacing the MEM MPLs, except for the
arsenic, for which the MEMs MPL is still applicable.
A summary of the ambient air quality standards is presented in Table 3-5.
Table 3-5
AIR QUALITY STANDARDS SUMMARY
PM-10
Reference

Period

Sulfur
Carbon
Dioxide Monoxide

Nitrogen
Dioxide

Ozone Arsenic

Lead

(g/m3)

National
Standards
for Air
Quality(1)

World Bank
Guidelines(8)

1 hour

30,000

200(5)

8 hours

10,000

120(4)

365(5)

6(6)

1.5(3)

50

80

100

0.5(7)

100

100

100

500

500

200

24-hours
Monthly
Average
Annual
Average
Annual
Average
24-hours

(2)

150

Notes:
1
Supreme Decrees No 074-2001-PCM (2001) and N 069-2003-PCM (2003).
2
Not to be exceeded more than 3 times a year
3
Not to be exceeded more than 4 times a year
4
Not to be exceeded more than 24 times a year.
5
Not to be exceeded more than1 time a year.
6
Resolution No. 315-96-EM/VMM (MEM, 1996b)
7
Average of monthly values
8
WB Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines, Mining and Milling Open Pit, 1995

Air Emissions Regulations


The maximum permissible limits for emissions from mining-metallurgical activities are regulated by
the MEM under Ministerial Resolution No. 315-96-EM/VMM (MEM, 1996b). These limits were
established for PM-10, lead, arsenic and sulfur dioxide. In case of sulfur dioxide, the maximum
permissible limits for emissions are linked to total sulfur input to the process, which is applicable to
smelters.
A summary of the air emissions standards is presented in Table 3-6.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 15

Table 3-6
AIR EMISSIONS STANDARDS

Reference

PM-10

Sulfur
Dioxide

Lead

Arsenic

MEM
Standards(1)
(2)

WB

100
(3)

50

(mg/m )
According to
25
sulfur input

25

2,000

Notes:
(1) MEM, Ministerial Resolution No. 315-96-EM/VMM, 1996
(2) WB PPAH, General Environmental Guidelines, 1998
(3) Particulate Matter (PM)

Groundwater
No maximum allowable standards or limits for groundwater quality have been established in Peru.
According to the commitment made by SMCV in the EIA, the established baseline values for
groundwater quality will be statistically compared with the results of the groundwater monitoring. The
methodology and criteria for groundwater monitoring established in the EMP (Appendix A) should be
followed.
Vegetation and Fauna
The Supreme Decree N 034-2004-AG Categorization of Peruvian endangered species of fauna
establishes the list of protected species of fauna, but regulations and guidelines have not been
established in Peru for biological monitoring. Therefore, the program for biological monitoring
presented in the EMP (Appendix B) should be followed. The monitoring parameters are focused on
both a qualitative and quantitative analysis of fauna and vegetation.
A qualitative analysis of reptiles and mammals will be performed to establish a confirmed presence of
these species. A quantitative analysis of birds will be performed to establish the overall abundance
(estimated total numbers) of these species. A quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the guanaco
and their use of the local habitat in and around the TSF will be performed.
The list of protected species of flora has been established by INRENA (National Institute of Natural
resources), but this regulation does not established monitoring procedures. Therefore, the program for
vegetation monitoring presented in the EMP (Appendix B) should be followed.
Soils
Regulations and guidelines have not been established in Peru for soil quality. The methodology and
criteria to this respect presented in the Cerro Verde PSP ESMP should be followed. The proposed
monitoring measures represent a qualitative procedure for ensuring that the tailing disposal system is
functioning properly and that there are no unexpected equipment breakdowns. Visual inspections of
the TSF will be systematically conducted including tailing delivery piping, cyclone station, reclaim
water pond pump-back system, tailing delivery spigots, embankment seepage collection, and
embankment crest (beach) area. The purpose of the inspections will be to detect evidence of tailing
spillage that could occur outside of the established tailing deposition area.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 16

Geotechnical Conditions
Regulations and guidelines have not been established in Peru for the control of physical stability and
geotechnical conditions. The monitoring activities to assess the geotechnical conditions of the
embankment include piezometer monitoring, seepage monitoring, regular inspections, and planned
geotechnical investigations. The results of the monitoring will be compared to the assumptions made
in evaluating the stability of the embankment (Volume 7 Static and Seismic Stability Analyses), and
mitigation measures will be adopted as appropriate (see Section 10 Emergency Response Plan).
3.4.2

International Guidelines

The current international guidelines for environmental management were considered in the
preparation of the environmental monitoring program for the Cerro Verde TSF.
In 2004, the World Bank (the Bank) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) which is an
operating unit of the World Bank developed and issued what are known as the Equator Principles
(IFC, Equator Principles, June 2003). The Equator Principles are implemented through the use of the
Banks and IFCs environmental guidelines related to environmental, socioeconomic, and cultural
issues developed for the international financial entities. Many mining companies and international
lenders have adopted the Equator Principles as a binding prerequisite for project financing. The
Equator Principles were developed by the Bank and IFC to provide a framework for minimizing
potential environmental and socioeconomic problems that may affect the lenders investment risk in
international mining projects.
The Equator Principles require mining projects to develop an Environmental Management Plan that
draws from information contained in a projects Environmental Impact Assessment document. The
EMP is required to address several topics including mitigation measures, monitoring programs, risk
management, and environmental management scheduling.
In addition, mining projects must adhere to applicable Safeguard policies and sector-specific
environmental, health and safety (EHS) guidelines. The specific World Bank and IFC guidelines and
standards that apply to the Cerro Verde mine include:

World Bank Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook (PPAH), Base Metal and Iron Ore
Mining, July 1998
World Bank Mining and Milling Open Pit Guidelines (1995)
IFC Operational Policy 4.01, Environmental Assessment
IFC Operational Policy 4.37, Safety of Dams

3.4.3

Design Basis and Criteria

The design basis and design criteria adopted for the design of the Cerro Verde TSF are presented in
Table 3-7 and Table 3-8, respectively.

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TABLE 3-7
CERRO VERDE TSF DESIGN BASIS
Site Characteristics
16 km ESE of Arequipa
2400-2700 m
30 deg. C
0 deg. C
Short occurrences only
100 km/hr
SW
36 mm
South Zone Station
6.1 mm
810 Ha
No diversion channels
391 mm
72-hr
M 9.0

Location
Elevation
Design Max Temperature
Design Min Temperature
Wind (max gust)
Prevailing Wind Direction
Average Annual Precipitation
Average Daily Evaporation
Catchment Area
PMP
MCE
Operating Requirements/Assumptions
Ore type

Porphyry Copper

Ore Reserve

1.015 billion metric tons

Production Rate
Total Years of Production
Slurry Percent Solids from Plant
Slurry Flow Rate
Percent Solids from Tailing Thickeners
Percent Fines in Tailing Slurry
Slurry Solids SG
Underflow Solids SG
Overflow Solids SG
Slurry pH

108,000 t/d
> 25
27%
14,500 m3/h
55%
67.5%
2.73
2.7
2.73
10

Average Dry Density of Overflow


Average Compacted
Underflow

Dry

Start-up Water Requirement

Varies
Density

of

1.58 t/m3
1,000,000 m3

About 870 million tons will be accommodated in


the designed tailing facility. Additional storage
would be required for the remaining ore reserve.
Ramp-up schedule for 1st 6 months
365 d/yr, 24 h/d
Range 26-30%
Range 50-60%
Weighted Average Tailing Sample
From Flour
Lab test
Lab test
Range 9.0 10.5
based on consolidation testing and analysis
98% of max dry density (ASTM D 698);
the 1.58 t/m3 value will vary for different tailing
materials over the life of the mine.
From Fluor

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TABLE 3-8
CERRO VERDE TSF DESIGN CRITERIA
North America/
Peru

Regulations
Flood Storage Requirement

PMF

Seismicity/Earthquake Load

MCE

Min Freeboard (Vertical distance between


embankment crest and max impoundment
elevation)

3m

Min Static Factor of Safety (FOS)

1.5

Post-earthquake FOS
Max Embankment Deformation
Seepage/Solution Discharge Requirements
Starter Dam Characteristics:
Type
Upstream Slope
Downstream Slope (Upper Portion and between
benches)
Downstream Slope (Lower Portion)
Starter Dam Crest Width
Starter Dam Crest Elevation

1.2
3m
Zero Discharge
Concept

Meet more stringent regulations when there is no conflict


with Peruvian regulation.
Contain within impoundment, min 100 m from
embankment crest during flood conditions.
Canadian Dam Association, Dam Safety Guidelines,
1999
To provide sufficient flood storage and accommodate
anticipated settlements.
Canadian Dam Association, Dam Safety Guidelines,
1999; USBR, Chapter 4, 1987
ANCOLD Guidelines, 1998; USBR, Chapter 13, 2001
To preclude release of fluid from the impoundment.
Embankment drains, sump, cut-off wall, grout curtain,
monitoring/pumpback wells, limestone area treatment

Zoned rockfill
2H:1V
2H:1V

Benches will be utilized for access and sand distribution.

3.5H:1V
15 m
2485 m

Embankment Characteristics:
Construction Type
Construction Material
Maximum Percent Fines in Underflow
Required Recovery of Underflow
Cyclone System Operating Time (min)
Maximum Lift Thickness (loose layer)
Compaction Effort/Density
Maximum Embankment Elevation
Centerline Downstream Slope
Crest Width

Centerline
Compacted
Underflow
15%
34%
90%
0.3 m
98%
2660 m
3.5H:1V
50 m

(Passing No. 200 sieve size)


Of total tailing stream.
Thickness prior to compaction
98% of maximum dry density (ASTM D 698)
Private property restriction

Impoundment:
Impoundment Beach Slope
Pond Size
Pond Location relative to Embankment

0.50%
20 Ha

Assumed beach slope


From Fluor
Pond located at upstream end of impoundment, possibly
As far as possible two ponds. Pond will be against the starter dam for
approximately 3 months during startup.

Seepage Collection System Characteristics:


Power Outage
Flood Storage Requirement
Drain Design Flow Factor of Safety

12 hrs
Seepage during this period to be contained within sump
1 in 100 yr, 24 h Contain runoff from design event within sump, and
storm
assume event coincides with power outage.
Drain Capacity/Demand = 10 (no reliance on pipe
10
conductors).

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4.0
4.1

FACILITY OPERATION

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this chapter is to describe the significant components of the tailing facility and to
define operating standards and procedures in accordance with the design criteria, regulatory
requirements, company policies and sound operating practices. The described procedures aim to
provide guidance for safe, economical and environmentally responsible disposal and storage of tailing
materials.
4.2
4.2.1

TAILING PRODUCTION AND TRANSPORT


Tailing Characteristics and Production Schedule

Run of mine (ROM) ore is hauled from the open pits by trucks and dumped into the primary gyratory
crushers. This crusher reduces the ROM ore from rocks up to 1-2 m in size down to all less than 280
mm. Crushed ore is transported by conveyors to an open stockpile adjacent to the concentrator. The
50,000 t live capacity of the stockpile allows the secondary and tertiary crushing stages to continue
operating while the primary crusher is being serviced.
The crushed product from the secondary crusher is returned to the coarse ore surge bin so it can be
re-screened. Secondary screen undersize is 100% less than 50 mm. The tertiary crushing has four
lines which operate independently of each other, although sharing common feed distribution and
product conveyors. Each line includes a feed surge bin, a feeder and a high pressure grinding roll
crusher (HPGR). These crushers exert a very high pressure on the ore passing through them. HPGR
product is transferred to a row of ball mill feed bins. The HPGRs are in closed circuit, with the
downstream ball mill feed screens providing a positive control on maximum particle size to the
grinding circuit. Oversize from these screens returns to the HPGR surge bin for re-crushing. There
are four independent grinding lines, each consisting of a feed surge bin, two reclaim feeders, two
double deck screens, a sump and cyclone feed pump, a cyclone cluster and a ball mill. Each feeder
discharges to a wet screen where the finely crushed ore is slurried and washed, with the fine underflow
slurry discharging to the cyclone feed sump. The partly dewatered screen oversize is conveyed back to
the HPGR surge bin. Screen undersize slurry is pumped to the cyclone cluster, which separates the
finished product size material from the oversize. Oversize flows to the ball mill for grinding to
finished size. The ball mill has a variable speed drive to control grind size to a narrow range. The
particles need to be fine enough for mineral liberation, but coarse enough, so that sufficient sand is
available to build the tailing embankment. The ball mill product discharges to the same cyclone feed
sump as the screen undersize and is pumped to the cyclones for size classification.
Cyclone overflow is sampled and analyzed for size and metal content as it flows to the rougher
scavenger flotation row. Each grinding line has a dedicated row of flotation cells to make the initial
recovery of mineral from the ground ore. Rougher concentrate from the first one or two cells in the
row is higher grade than concentrate from the later scavenger cells and is handled differently. The
rougher concentrate is given a short regrind in a stirred media detritor (polish mill) to clean the
mineral surfaces and is then sent to the final stage of cleaner flotation. Scavenger concentrate from
the remaining cells in the row is lower grade and needs more grinding and upgrading than the rougher
concentrate. The combined scavenger concentrates from all four rows go to the regrind mills where
size is reduced to about 80% passing 35 m. These mills are vertical stirred mills, which are in closed
circuit with cyclones to ensure a controlled product size.
The reground scavenger concentrate feeds to the first cleaner cells for upgrading. These cells are the
same size and type as the rougher scavenger cells and are in a parallel row immediately adjacent to the
rougher-scavengers. Concentrate from the first half of the cleaner row joins the polished rougher
concentrate as feed to the final stage cleaners. The lower grade concentrate from the second half of
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the cleaner row, referred to as cleaner scavengers, returns to the regrind circuit for further grinding.
The residual tailing from the cleaner scavengers is a final reject product and joins the scavenger tailing.
Tailing from flotation represents 98% of the total plant feed weight and must be safely stored in
perpetuity. The tailing is initially thickened in two high capacity thickeners to recover approximately
60% of the contained water for recycle to the process water system. The remaining thickened solids
at 50-55% density are pumped to a pipe launder for transport to the tailing storage facility (TSF). This
launder is at a shallow slope and flows by gravity at atmospheric pressure the pipe is never more
than half full.
The realistic and aggressive start-up production schedules, provided by SMCV that were used as a
basis for the material balance and water balance modeling for the TSF (Volume 5 and Volume 6,
respectively), are presented in Table 4-2-1.
TABLE 4-2-1
RAMP-UP PRODUCTION RATES
Date

Realistic Ramp-Up Schedule

Aggressive Ramp-Up Schedule

11/01/2006
11/08/2006
11/15/2006
11/22/2006
11/29/2006
12/06/2006
12/13/2006
12/20/2006
12/27/2006
01/03/2007
01/10/2007
01/17/2007
01/24/2007
01/31/2007
02/07/2007
02/14/2007

t/d
27,000
29,500
32,500
36,500
40,500
44,500
48,500
52,500
81,000
84,000
88,000
92,500
97,000
101,500
106,000
108,000

t/d
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
108,000
108,000
108,000
108,000
108,000
108,000
108,000
108,000
108,000

Pilot testing on representative ore samples from the Cerro Verde mine was performed by Hazen
during the project feasibility study. The results of the pilot testing included a range of gradations
corresponding to the processing of the different ore samples. SMCV estimated the weighted average
of the gradations of the whole tailing materials planned to be produced by the processing plant, which
was used as a basis for the design. Krebs Engineers (Krebs) performed simulation analyses for the
weighted average whole tailing gradation to estimate the quantity and quality of underflow materials
that can be produced by a range of cyclone arrangements. The estimated weighted average whole
tailing particle size distribution and the gradations of the tailing cyclone underflow and overflow
estimated by Krebs, are presented in Figure 4-2-1. The presented gradations have been used as a basis
for the design of the tailing facility. If a variation in the characteristics of the produced whole tailing is
observed, its effect on the current design should be evaluated. SMCV is confident that an appropriate
grind can be provided to satisfy the project requirements because of the fact that the HPGR
technology and variable speed gearless drive ball mills will significantly reduce the amount of fines
generated by milling and allow for production of a coarser grind.
4.2.2

Tailing Thickening

Tailing from flotation represents 98 percent of the total plant feed weight and must be safely stored in
perpetuity. The tailing is initially thickened in two 75 meter diameter high capacity thickeners to
recover approximately 60 percent of the contained water for recycle to the process water system. The
remaining thickened solids are pumped to a pipe launder for transport to the TSF. Thickener
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underflow density can range from 50 to 60 percent solids depending on feed rate and ore
characteristics. Higher feed rate will typically result in reduced density. If more that one grinding line
is out of operation, only one thickener would normally be operated for that period.
Refer to the operations manual for Area 3700 for details of tailing thickener operation.
4.2.3

Whole Tailing Pipeline

Following thickening, the tailing slurry will be gravity-fed through a 48-inch HDPE pipe launder to a
cyclone station located on the east abutment of the tailing embankment. This launder is at a shallow
slope and flows by gravity at atmospheric pressure the pipe is never more than half full. There are
inspection manholes installed at 500 meter intervals along the length of the launder to allow inspection
of the pipe for wear. If required, vents can also be installed at these manholes. Provision has been
made for offtakes from the fresh water line adjacent to the tailing launder for potential local flushing
of the line.
Refer to the operations manual for Area 3700 for details of tailing launder operation.
4.2.4

Tailing Cycloning

Two cyclone stations will be constructed for the operation of the TSF. The purpose of the first
cyclone station (the Central Cyclone Station) located on the east abutment of the tailing embankment
is to produce tailing sand for the construction of the tailing embankment. The second cyclone station
(the Scalping Cyclone Station) will be located at the Concentrator plant site and will come in operation
after the first year of operation of the facility. The purpose of the scalping station is to separate the
sand from a portion of the whole tailing stream. The sand would then be combined with the
remainder of the tailing feed from the Concentrator and sent to the central cyclone station for
subsequent cycloning. The tailing overflow produced at the scalping station will be used for deposition
from the upstream ends of the impoundment to facilitate pond management.
The slurry coming through the tailing launder (Section 4.2.3) to the Central Cyclone Station is rediluted to 39 percent solids prior to gravity feeding to two clusters of first stage cyclones. The first
stage cyclones are equipped with an internal wash stage (cyclowash), which helps reduce the amount
of fines reporting to the underflow stream. The sand underflow from this first stage is re-diluted and
fed by gravity to a single cluster of second stage cyclones. The underflow from this final stage is
rigorously controlled by the use of an on-stream particle size analyzer to ensure that the content of
very fine particles remains within limits (<15 percent -75m) while at the same time achieving
maximum sand recovery. The sand balance is critical in that there is very little extra sand in the tailing
beyond what is required for construction of the embankment. High operating time and production of
on-specification sand are very important to the success of the operation.
The sand is piped by gravity and distributed along the crest and downstream face of the embankment
in 30 cm thick loose layers, which are drained and compacted before the next layer is placed. The
compaction is critical to the structural integrity of the embankment.
A separate sand line is provided to direct on-specification sand to the Eastern Quebrada during
periods when the main on-dam distribution system cannot accept sand (first few months of
operation). If the sand does not meet specifications it is diverted to a single point discharge that
empties into the upstream impoundment area along with the cyclone overflow stream.
As the embankment rises with ongoing sand deposition, the initial cyclone installation will have to be
relocated to (or replaced with) a higher cyclone location. The location is a compromise between
maintaining gravity flow of thickened tailing while minimizing pumping requirements for dilution
water. The cyclone station will be moved twice over the life of the tailing impoundment facility, with
the cost of relocation being more than offset by the savings in energy costs for pumping reclaim water
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to cyclone system. Each move will have to be carefully orchestrated to minimize cyclone downtime
and loss of sand production. It may be expeditious to replace much of the equipment and structure
rather than moving the existing, just to maintain as much sand production as possible. During
relocations, whole tailing will be discharged to the upstream impoundment area. During such periods,
some of the whole tailing could be discharged to other fill areas in place of scalping cyclone overflow.
The minimum required cycloned underflow sand for embankment construction versus time for a
production rate of 108,000 t/d is illustrated in Figure 4-2-2. The sand requirement and whole tailing
production were adjusted to reflect the realistic start-up production schedule (see Table 4-2-1)
provided by SMCV.
Refer to the operations manual for Area 3800 for details of cyclone and solids placement operation.
4.2.5

Jacking Headers

The coarse fraction (underflow) produced at the cyclone station will be used to construct the
embankment and the fine fraction (overflow) will be discharged into the impoundment. The
underflow will be transported from the cyclone station to the embankment via one of two pipelines.
Initial operation will be with a 14-inch pipeline to the dam crest connected to a 12-inch pipeline across
the starter embankment crest. Once production approaches normal design rates flow will be through
an 18-inch line to the crest connected to 16-inch steel line along the crest. Both lines will initially be
connected to downcomers fitted with spray bars, to distribute the sand across the face at a lower
elevation. These downcomers will be retracted as the discharge level rises until ultimately each line
will have its own spray bars mounted at the pipe. These two pipelines will be placed on a jacking
header along the downstream side of the embankment bench on elevation 2475 m.
The overflow will be transported via two 32-inch pipelines placed on another jacking header along the
upstream side of the embankment crest (elevation 2485 m). The configuration and location of the
jacking headers in cross section is illustrated in Fluor/PSI drawings PSP108-C-3830-50T-022, 023 and
025.
Refer to the operating manual for Area 3800 for design and operating details of the jacking headers.
4.2.6

Other Delivery Lines

The feed launder to the first stage cyclones overflow lines is arranged to allow whole tailing to bypass
the cyclones on an emergency basis and discharge to one of the overflow lines. The other overflow
line extends beyond the initial deposition area to the western extremity of the embankment. This will
be used intermittently to deposit overflow solids in the western valley to preclude the development of
a pond in the limestone area.
Second stage cyclone overflow contains a relatively small amount of solids and is discharged through a
single point discharge pipe into the upstream side of the embankment, not far from the cyclone
station. This line also picks up intermittent overflows from all the various tanks, launders, and vessels.
If second stage cyclone underflow does not meet sand specifications, it is diverted to this single point
discharge line.
The future scalping cyclone station overflow will flow by gravity pipeline to the central and eastern
valleys, where it will be discharged to manage where the reclaim water ponds can form. The overflow
line will follow the tailing thickener underflow line to the area of the launder at the head of the 48-inch
tailing pipe but will then diverge towards the west from that elevation. Scalping cyclone underflow
rejoins the rest of the thickened tailing to flow to the tailing cyclone area.
Refer to the operations manual for Area 3800 for details of the tailing delivery pipelines.
4.3
EMBANKMENT CONSTRUCTION
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This section presents a description of the TSF embankment and provides guidelines for its
construction. The following items are discussed:

Description of TSF embankment


Embankment design assumptions
Start-up Embankment Construction
Contingency measures for embankment construction
General embankment construction
Deposition on the embankment crest
Placement of underflow sands over the drains
Description of special embankment features
Deposition of underflow sands into the Eastern Quebrada
Description of embankment instrumentation
Embankment construction schedule
Quality control and assurance of embankment construction

4.3.1

Description of the Embankment

The tailing embankment will consist of an approximately 260 m high (at maximum height)
embankment constructed of cycloned tailing sand by the centerline method over an 85 m high zoned
rockfill Starter Dam. The embankment is underlain by an extensive drain system to promote rapid
drainage of the cycloned tailing sands. The Starter Dam, and the drain system within the estimated
embankment limits for the first two years of operation are being built prior to the start of the
operation of the concentrator plant. The embankment will be raised in lifts of cycloned tailing sands
concurrent with filling the impoundment. A minimum of 3 m of freeboard between the embankment
crest elevation and the elevation of the impounded tailing will be maintained at all times. As the
embankment is raised in height, its footprint will expand downstream. Accordingly, the embankment
underdrain system will be expanded. A brief description of the Starter Dam and the tailing
embankment follows.

Starter Dam: The purpose of the Starter Dam is to provide storage for the tailing overflow and
whole tailing materials to be impounded during approximately the first year of operation as the
embankment is being constructed of cycloned tailing underflow sand. The required height of the
Starter Dam was established in an iterative process during the feasibility design of the tailing
facility (URS, Tailing Embankment Feasibility Design, 2004). The suggested Starter Dam crest
elevation of 2485 m was verified during the final design of the facility (Volume 5 Material
Balance Analysis).
The configuration and brief descriptions of the various zones of the Starter Dam are presented in
Figure 4-3-1. The upstream slope of the Starter Dam is 2H:1V, and the downstream slope varies
from 2H:1V to 3.5H:1V. There will be an 8 m and a 15 m wide bench at elevation 2455 m and
2475 m, respectively, along the downstream slope. The purpose of the benches and the flatter
slope at the lower portion of the Starter Dam is to assist in the tailing underflow deposition
during the first year of embankment construction. The detailed design drawings of the Starter
Dam are included in Volume 10 Drawings, Package 2 Starter Dam Construction.

Embankment: The tailing embankment will be constructed of compacted cycloned tailing


underflow and raised by the centerline construction method. The embankment will have a crest
width of 50 m and a 3.5H:1V downstream slope. The maximum ultimate embankment height will
be approximately 260 m (crest elevation 2660 m). The ultimate embankment length will be
approximately 2.5 km. Figure 4-3-2 shows a cross-section through the maximum height of the
embankment in the center of the Quebrada Enlozada.
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The construction of the Starter Dam is scheduled to be completed in August 2006. The construction
of the tailing underflow embankment is scheduled to begin on November 1, 2006 immediately
following the commissioning of the processing plant.
4.3.2

Embankment Design Assumptions

The design of the embankment was performed following the design basis and design criteria presented
in Table 3-6 and Table 3-7, respectively. Details on the assumptions and data used for the
embankment design are presented in Volume 5 Material Balance Analysis. A summary of the main
assumptions for the embankment design is given below:

Whole Tailing Production Rate (dry metric tons)= 108,000 t/d

Underflow Production (dry metric tons)= 33,048 t/d (34% recovery at 90% cyclone station
availability)

Minimum Freeboard = 3 m
*Freeboard is defined as the vertical distance between the embankment crest and the maximum
level of the impounded tailing.

Embankment Slope = 3.5H:1V

Embankment Crest Width = 50 m

Underflow Percent Solids(by weight) = 70%

Maximum Percent Fines of the Underflow(particles smaller than 75 micron)= 15%

Compacted Dry Density = 98% of maximum dry density per ASTM D 698 (estimated 1.58 t/m3
based on testing during design)

Maximum Lift Thickness (for compaction of embankment sands) = 30 cm (loose prior to


compaction)

4.3.3

Start-up Construction

Embankment construction during start-up is critical to TSF performance from a material balance and
stability standpoint. The start-up construction covers the period of time until the sand embankment
reaches elevation 2485 m at 3.5H:1V downstream slope.
Embankment Construction during Start-Up
The tailing embankment will be constructed of compacted underflow tailing materials and raised by
the centerline construction method. The embankment construction will involve the following basic
steps:

Step 1: Deposit underflow tailing materials in a loose 0.3 m thick layer.


Step 2: Allow the deposited underflow to drain.
Step 3: Compact the drained underflow materials to 98% of the maximum dry density (ASTM D
698).
Note: Part of the early deposition process will be to establish the number of passes required to achieve
98% of the maximum dry density and use this as a general guidance for the compaction of the
underflow.
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To allow for the three steps to occur at the same time, the embankment will be divided into a
minimum of three approximately 200 m long sections. The longitudinal length of the Starter Dam at
elevation 2435 m is approximately 600 m and will allow the division into three zones. The
downstream slope of the Starter Dam from the toe to elevation 2435 m was intentionally selected as
3.5H:1V to facilitate the initial placement of the underflow materials to the desired slope. The
proposed sequence for the start-up embankment construction is as follows:

A 12-inch HDPE underflow delivery line will be placed on a jacking header system on the Starter
Dam bench at elevation 2475 m. This delivery line will be needed for the first two months when
the mill production rate is about 54,000 tons/day. Subsequent to that time, the production rate
will increase to 108,000 tons/day and a 16-inch underflow delivery line will be used.

Pipe extensions (6) with a spray bar (4) will be attached to the delivery line and extended to
about elevation 2435 m along the slope (Figure 4-3-3a).

Underflow tailing deposition will take place along a segment of about 200 m length. After a layer
of approximately 0.3 m loose thickness has been placed, deposition will progress to the next 200
m long segment. If deposition progresses from East to West, the most eastern open valve will be
closed and the subsequent new valve following the last open valve (on the west) will be opened.
This procedure will be repeated until all previously operated valves are closed and the valves on
the next section for deposition are opened.

It was assumed that each of the three steps of the embankment construction would take about 24
hours. Thus, while depositing into the second segment, the first segment will drain, and while
depositing in the third segment, the first segment will be compacted and the second segment will
drain. Construction of two layers to elevation 2435 m is planned to take approximately 6 days
(Figure 4-3-3a).

Over the following 2 to 3 months the spray bar extensions off the delivery pipe will be gradually
withdrawn towards the bench at elevation 2455 m as the embankment elevation rises (Figure 4-33b).

Pipe extensions with spray bars from the delivery line on the header will be used until the
embankment elevation approaches elevation 2475 m and an uniform 3.5H:1V slope has been
established (Figure 4-3-3c).

The underflow deposition will continue by discharging from spigots in the delivery line on the
jacking header at 2 m intervals (Figure 4-3-3d). Deposition will take place over about 200 m
length along the crest at a time.

The header will be raised as required to provide sufficient space (underneath) for compaction of
the deposited underflow along the crest of the embankment. A minimum of 4.5 m clearance
beneath the header is required.

The downstream edge of the bench at elevation 2475 m coincides with the downstream edge of
the 50-meter wide embankment crest. Upon reaching the bench at elevation 2475 m, deposition
of horizontal lifts along the bench will be initiated. The width of the bench will vary from 15 m at
elevation 2475 m to 35 m at elevation 2485 m (not including the 15 m starter dam crest width).
Above elevation 2485 m the crest width will be kept constant at 50 m. The estimated
embankment rate of rise between elevation 2475 m and 2485 m is about 1.2 m/week, which
would require placement and compaction of about 4 lifts per week, assuming 30 cm (loose) lift
thickness. The possibility of placement and compaction of thicker lifts (up to 45 cm) on the
benches may be investigated at this time. The decision on the use of thicker lifts will depend on
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the achieved lift compaction (homogeneous throughout the lift thickness at a minimum of 98% of
the maximum dry density per ASTM D 698).

Due to the limited initial bench width, and the fast embankment and header raise rate, hydraulic
deposition of the underflow on the bench is expected to be difficult, so careful planning will be
essential. The embankment crest between elevation 2475 and 2485 m should be raised by
depositing underflow from the upstream spray bars and by dozing previously drained underflow
upstream from piles that may form immediately downstream of the jacking header (along the edge
of the embankment slope). Dozing and compacting the drained underflow is expected to increase
the rate of lift construction. Beyond elevation 2485 m, the embankment crest will be raised
following the procedure described in Section 4.3.5.

Underflow Stockpiling during Start-up


At the beginning of the embankment construction, the area available for deposition of underflow will
be limited to the area of the downstream slope of the Starter Dam. This limited area will restrict the
amount of underflow that can be deposited. The start-up embankment construction sequence and the
area limitations during the first several months of the embankment construction are discussed in
Volume 5 Material Balance Analysis.
It is estimated that during the first 4 to 6 months of operation, the amount of underflow that can be
placed and compacted on the embankment is equivalent to 70 to 80 percent cyclone operating time.
Two alternatives are available: 1) adjust the cyclone operating time to produce only the underflow
quantities required for embankment construction and discharge the remainder of the tailing flow into
the impoundment, and 2) produce as much underflow as possible and stockpile it downstream of the
embankment toe. Alternative 2 above should be adopted to the extent feasible. Implementing this
approach will have a positive effect on the material balance during this critical part of the embankment
construction. Some quantities of underflow will be required for mechanical placement over the drains
(Section 4.3.7) and the stockpiled underflow quantities could be used for this purpose. Stockpiled
underflow can also be used as contingency for embankment construction during periods when the
cyclone station is not in operation. All stockpiled material should be utilized for construction by
hauling it to the place of final use, spreading it in 30-cm lifts and compacting it to 98% of maximum
dry density (ASTM D 698). Stockpiled underflow material should not remain in uncompacted state in
the stockpile area or elsewhere, as this would create a potentially liquefaction susceptible zone in the
embankment.
It is planned to stockpile the extra underflow from a ridge downstream of the Starter Dam toe on
the east side of the valley (Figure 4-3-8). The underflow will be discharged via a 12 HDPE pipe off
the main header. The underflow slurry would discharge into a pit excavated in bedrock for energy
dissipation. The stockpiled underflow would be allowed to drain and would be mechanically
transported and placed where required.
By the time the underflow elevation reaches the elevation of the Starter Dam, it is anticipated that
there will be no restriction on the amount of underflow that can be deposited (at 108,000 t/d
production rate, 34% underflow recovery and allowing sufficient time for deposition, drainage and
compaction).
Start-up Water Pond
The purpose of the start-up water pond is to provide sufficient water in the beginning of the mill
operations to compensate for the initial water losses and the expected delay in water recovery from the
embankment and from the impoundment reclaim water pond. The design of the Starter Dam
incorporates features that allow water storage to elevation 2430 m. Due to the achieved low
permeability of the upstream embankment veneer (Zone 7), water could be stored to a higher
elevation. The current start-up water filling plan, developed by MWH, Fluor, PSI and SMCV is
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 27

presented in Table 4-3-1. According to the plan, the start-up water pond elevation will be
approximately 2431.34 m and will store approximately 1.9 million cubic meters of water.

Date

TABLE 4-3-1
PROYECTO CERRO VERDE - PRESA DE RELAVES
DAILY WATER VOLUME AND FLOW RATE FOR START-UP WATER FILL PLAN
Daily Water
Water
Daily Water
Water
Total Daily
Daily
Water Total Daily
Total
Average
Volume
Elev. East Volume Elev. West
Water
Water
Elev.
Water
Cumulative Daily Water
East
Drainage
West
Drainage
Volume
Volume
One
Volume
Water
Flow Rate
Drainage
Drainage
East + one pond Pond
(m3)
Volume
(Liter/sec)
(m) (2)
(m) (4)
West
(m3)
(m3) (1)
(m3) (3)
(m3) (6) (m) (7) (1)+(3)+(6)
Drainage
(m3)
(1)+(3)

7-Jul

1,926.01

2,412.0

1,926.01

1,926.01

1,926.01

22.29

8-Jul

2,487.04

2,413.0

2,487.04

2,487.04

4,413.04

28.79

9-Jul

4,145.18

2,414.0

4,145.18

4,145.18

8,558.22

47.98

10-Jul

6,215.12

2,415.0

6,215.12

6,215.12

14,773.35

71.93

11-Jul

2,609.93

2,415.3

2,609.93

2,609.93

17,383.28

30.21

12-Jul

2,609.93

2,415.6

2,609.93

2,609.93

19,993.21

30.21

13-Jul

2,609.93

2,415.9

2,609.93

2,609.93

22,603.14

30.21

14-Jul

3,251.58

2,416.2

8,259.37

2,410.0

11,510.95

11,510.95

34,114.08

133.23

15-Jul

3,572.41

2,416.5

10,344.20

2,411.0

13,916.61

13,916.61

48,030.69

161.07

16-Jul

3,572.41

2,416.8

18,105.56

2,412.0

21,677.97

21,677.97

69,708.66

250.90

17-Jul

6,587.19

2,417.1

21,629.69

2,413.0

28,216.88

28,216.88

97,925.55

326.58

18-Jul

12,616.76

2,417.4

25,090.43

2,414.0

37,707.20

37,707.20

135,632.74

436.43

19-Jul

12,616.76

2,417.7

28,806.28

2,415.0

41,423.05

41,423.05

177,055.79

479.43

20-Jul

12,616.76

2,418.0

9,515.50

2,415.3

22,132.26

22,132.26

199,188.05

256.16

21-Jul

14,245.66

2,418.3

9,515.50

2,415.6

23,761.16

23,761.16

222,949.21

275.01

22-Jul

14,245.66

2,418.6

9,515.50

2,415.9

23,761.16

23,761.16

246,710.38

275.01

23-Jul

14,245.66

2,418.9

10,255.73

2,416.2

24,501.39

24,501.39

271,211.76

283.58

24-Jul

4,748.55

2,419.0

10,625.84

2,416.5

15,374.39

15,374.39

286,586.15

177.94

25-Jul

2,419.0

10,625.84

2,416.8

10,625.84

10,625.84

297,211.99

122.98

26-Jul

2,419.0

11,036.42

2,417.1

11,036.42

11,036.42

308,248.41

127.74

27-Jul

2,419.0

11,857.58

2,417.4

11,857.58

11,857.58

320,105.99

137.24

28-Jul

2,419.0

11,857.58

2,417.7

11,857.58

11,857.58

331,963.58

137.24

29-Jul

2,419.0

11,857.58

2,418.0

11,857.58

11,857.58

343,821.16

137.24

30-Jul

2,419.0

13,473.02

2,418.3

13,473.02

13,473.02

357,294.18

155.94

31-Jul

2,419.0

13,473.02

2,418.6

13,473.02

13,473.02

370,767.20

155.94

1-Aug

2,419.0

13,473.02

2,418.9

13,473.02

13,473.02

384,240.22

155.94

4,491.01

2,419.0

4,491.01

2-Aug

2,419.0
14,930.55

2,419.2

19,421.55

403,661.77

224.79

3-Aug

22,395.82

2,419.5

22,395.82

426,057.59

259.21

4-Aug

22,395.82

2,419.8

22,395.82

448,453.41

259.21

5-Aug

23,324.01

2,420.1

23,324.01

471,777.41

269.95

6-Aug

25,180.39

2,420.4

25,180.39

496,957.80

291.44

7-Aug

25,180.39

2,420.7

25,180.39

522,138.19

291.44

8-Aug

25,180.39

2,421.0

25,180.39

547,318.58

291.44

9-Aug

27,970.38

2,421.3

27,970.38

575,288.96

323.73

10-Aug

27,970.38

2,421.6

27,970.38

603,259.34

323.73

11-Aug

27,970.38

2,421.9

27,970.38

631,229.72

323.73

12-Aug

29,748.52

2,422.2

29,748.52

660,978.23

344.31

13-Aug

30,637.58

2,422.5

30,637.58

691,615.82

354.60

14-Aug

30,637.58

2,422.8

30,637.58

722,253.40

354.60

15-Aug

31,559.49

2,423.1

31,559.49

753,812.89

365.27

16-Aug

33,403.29

2,423.4

33,403.29

787,216.18

386.61

17-Aug

33,403.29

2,423.7

33,403.29

820,619.47

386.61

18-Aug

33,403.29

2,424.0

33,403.29

854,022.76

386.61

19-Aug

36,090.60

2,424.3

36,090.60

890,113.36

417.72

20-Aug

36,090.60

2,424.6

36,090.60

926,203.96

417.72

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Date

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 28

TABLE 4-3-1
PROYECTO CERRO VERDE - PRESA DE RELAVES
DAILY WATER VOLUME AND FLOW RATE FOR START-UP WATER FILL PLAN
Daily Water
Water
Daily Water
Water
Total Daily
Daily
Water Total Daily
Total
Average
Volume
Elev. East Volume Elev. West
Water
Water
Elev.
Water
Cumulative Daily Water
East
Drainage
West
Drainage
Volume
Volume
One
Volume
Water
Flow Rate
Drainage
Drainage
East + one pond Pond
(m3)
Volume
(Liter/sec)
(m) (2)
(m) (4)
West
(m3)
(m3) (1)
(m3) (3)
(m3) (6) (m) (7) (1)+(3)+(6)
Drainage
(m3)
(1)+(3)

21-Aug

36,090.60

2,424.9

36,090.60

962,294.57

417.72

22-Aug

37,723.04

2,425.2

37,723.04

1,000,017.60

436.61

23-Aug

38,539.25

2,425.5

38,539.25

1,038,556.86

446.06

24-Aug

38,539.25

2,425.8

38,539.25

1,077,096.11

446.06

25-Aug

39,347.54

2,426.1

39,347.54

1,116,443.65

455.41

26-Aug

40,964.12

2,426.4

40,964.12

1,157,407.77

474.12

27-Aug

40,964.12

2,426.7

40,964.12

1,198,371.89

474.12

28-Aug

40,964.12

2,427.0

40,964.12

1,239,336.00

474.12

29-Aug

43,363.01

2,427.3

43,363.01

1,282,699.02

501.89

30-Aug

43,363.01

2,427.6

43,363.01

1,326,062.03

501.89

31-Aug

43,363.01

2,427.9

43,363.01

1,369,425.05

501.89

1-Sep

44,973.04

2,428.2

44,973.04

1,414,398.09

520.52

2-Sep

45,778.06

2,428.5

45,778.06

1,460,176.15

529.84

3-Sep

45,778.06

2,428.8

45,778.06

1,505,954.21

529.84

4-Sep

46,598.09

2,429.1

46,598.09

1,552,552.30

539.33

5-Sep

48,238.16

2,429.4

48,238.16

1,600,790.46

558.31

6-Sep

48,238.16

2,429.7

48,238.16

1,649,028.62

558.31

7-Sep

48,238.16

2,430.0

48,238.16

1,697,266.78

558.31

8-Sep

50,798.47

2,430.3

50,798.47

1,748,065.25

587.95

9-Sep

50,798.47

2,430.6

50,798.47

1,798,863.72

587.95

10-Sep

50,798.47

2,430.9

50,798.47

1,849,662.20

587.95

11-Sep

52,515.82

2,431.2

52,515.82

1,902,178.02

607.82

12-Sep

24,908.10

2,431.34

24,908.10

1,927,086.11

288.29

NOTES
1. The water volumes and flow rates do not include water losses due to bank storage to saturate soils and bedrock in the reservoir area, seepage losses and evaporation losses. The total
volume of these water losses is anticipated to be in the range of 500,000 m3 to 600,000 m3.
2. Eleven days of water transfer from the East Drainage to the West Drainage will be required (July 14 through July 24) until the two ponds become one. The water can be transferred by
siphon lines or by pumping.
3. Average water flow rates assume pumping during a 24 hr period. The actual flow rate can be increased and the pumping time reduced, as appropriate, to provide the total daily water filling
volume.

Water losses are expected to occur while filling the start-up water pond. The losses are expected to be
about 500,000 m3 to 600,000 m3 and include losses due to wetting the foundation, underseepage and
evaporation losses. Filling the start-up water pond with water from the fresh water line from Rio Chili
or other sources should consider the supply rate of available water including the rate at which water
from the Rio Chili may be pumped, the required total start-up water volume and the potential water
losses. The filling plan in Table 4-3-1 limits the fill rate to 0.3 m per day above elevation 2415 m to
allow observation of the performance of the dam and mitigation of potential seepage. It is
recommended that filling of the start-up water pond begins at least three months prior to the start of
tailing deposition and that the filling be done at a controlled rate.
It is estimated that the water within the start-up water pond will be used up by the end of the third
month of the operation of the TSF. By this time, the development of a tailing beach should be in
progress. With the tailing beach development two reclaim water ponds (East and Central) would form
(Figure 4-4-1). A delay in the removal of the start-up water pond would potentially result in a lower
density of the deposited tailing and a delay in the formation of a tailing beach. A lower density of the
deposited tailing would result in a smaller capacity of the impoundment and a higher than estimated
impoundment level, i.e. smaller freeboard. A delayed formation of a beach would potentially lead to
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 29

the formation of a pond at or close to the embankment, which may compromise the embankment
stability due to the formation of a higher phreatic surface or an increased risk of overtopping. For
these reasons, it will be important to pump down the start-up water pond and to facilitate
development of a tailing beach.
4.3.4

Contingency Measures and Problem/Solution Matrix

Producing insufficient quantity of underflow sand, development of a flatter or steeper than the design
embankment slope, and occurrence of excessive seepage through the Starter Dam, have been
identified as potential problems during the start-up of the embankment construction. Proposed
contingency measures to mitigate the effects of such problems during start-up and beyond are
discussed below.
1.1.1.1

Insufficient Quantity of Underflow

Problems at the cyclone station or at the Concentrator may result in insufficient production of
underflow suitable for embankment construction. Potential problems could be originated by a change
in the whole tailing grind, insufficient dilution water, failure of the equipment at the cyclone station,
etc. Not being able to produce the minimum required underflow material would adversely affect the
embankment construction schedule. As was discussed in Section 4.3.2 above, the rate of underflow
placement during the start-up period will be constrained due to the limited initial embankment surface
area. If underflow material is not available for a period of time during the start-up, the embankment
construction will be delayed. Catching up would not be possible because of the relatively fixed
disposal, drying and compacting cycle times. Exceeding the allowed underflow amount may
compromise the quality of embankment construction. Only small variations in the production of
underflow material required for construction could be acceptable due to the constrained underflow
placement area and stringent compaction requirements.
Potential delays in embankment construction during start-up may be avoided or mitigated by adopting
the following measures:

Cycloning as much tailing as possible while the station is in operation, and stockpiling the excess
underflow. The stockpiled underflow could be used for embankment advancement during periods
when the cyclone station is not in operation.

Supplement the underflow with borrow materials. This borrow material would need to be
approved by the Engineer before placement.

Use of borrow material should be considered after evaluating the availability of previously stockpiled
underflow materials. A decision to place borrow material should be made in the following
circumstances:

If the minimum available freeboard is less than 3 m, placement of suitable borrow material should
begin immediately.

If there is a problem at the cyclone station that will take the station out of operation for more
than three days, the existing condition of the facility should be carefully assessed.

In case, there is extra freeboard and production of sufficient underflow is expected to begin
within a reasonable time period that will not compromise the freeboard requirements, the
measures would include monitoring the progress at the cyclone station and the change in the
freeboard. Preference should be given to a deposition from the upstream reaches of the
impoundment, if such a deposition would not adversely affect the desired impoundment
configuration and the reclaim pond location.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 30

If there is extra freeboard, but a change in the tailing production or in the operation of the
cyclone station that will result in a production of insufficient quantity of underflow is foreseen,
planning for the use of borrow material should begin.

Suitable borrow material would be a mixture of clay, silt, sand, gravel and cobbles with a maximum
particle size of 20 cm, and a maximum of 15 percent passing the No. 200 sieve. The borrow materials
would be compacted to 98% of the maximum dry density (ASTM D 698) of the material at optimum
moisture content. The Futuros Finos stockpile is an example of a borrow source that might be suitable.
4.3.4.2

Flatter or Steeper Embankment Slope

The main factors that influence the slope of the deposited underflow are its particle size distribution
and the slurry percent solids. Coarser underflow sand produces a steeper slope, while finer underflow
results in a flatter slope. A thin underflow tends to run down and produce a flat slope, while a thick
slurry travels shorter distances and stacks at steeper slopes. Other factors that influence the slope of
the deposited material are flow rate and potential energy of the flow (i.e. size and height of the spigots
above the ground).
Based on benchmarking studies and previous experience with similar materials it is expected that the
slope of the underflow will deposit at about 3.5H:1V, which was selected as the basis for the
embankment design. The developed material balance is based on the selected 3.5H:1V embankment
slope. A flatter slope will potentially lead to insufficient material for embankment construction and
will result in an inability to provide the required freeboard. A steeper embankment slope would result
in an embankment that would be less stable than if it were constructed to the design 3.5H:1V slope.
Flatter Embankment Slope
The slope of the underflow should be monitored during the start-up of the embankment construction.
If a tendency to form a flatter than the design 3.5H:1V slope is established, measures to amend the
situation should be immediately taken. The recommended approach is as follows:
1. Check the percent solids of the underflow slurry from the cyclone station. If the percent solids are
lower than 70%, make adjustments at the cyclone station to increase the solids content and
thicken the slurry. Monitor the effect of thickening.
2. If the percent solids is at least 70% and the slope of the deposited underflow is flatter than
3.5H:1V, check the gradation of the whole tailing feed to the cyclone station, the underflow
recovery rate and the gradation of the produced underflow sand. Compare these gradations with
those assumed in the design and proceed as follows:
If the whole tailing gradation is finer than assumed for the design, make appropriate changes
in the plant to produce coarser tailing materials.
If the gradation of the whole tailing matches the design, a variation in the recovery rate
and/or in the gradation of the underflow material would most likely occur due to problems at
the cyclone station. In this case, check the settings at the cyclone station and make the
appropriate changes.
3. If the gradations of the whole tailing and underflow, and the percent solids of the underflow
slurry are as per the design, and the slope of the deposited underflow is flatter than 3.5H:1V,
report to the Tailing Superintendent, who should advise the Engineer on Record. Potential
measures that should be evaluated at this stage include:
Further thickening of the underflow slurry (the maximum allowed percent solids should be
established by the Shift Supervisor)
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 31

Production of coarser tailing (the economics of this action should be evaluated by the
Concentrator Manager)
Introducing changes to the deposition system
Using approved borrow materials to supplement the underflow for embankment
construction.
Using mine waste materials approved by the Engineer as borrow to be placed in the vicinity of the
Starter Dam crest is an alternative for compensating for the additional embankment material that may
be required in case the slope of the underflow is flatter than 3.5H:1V.
Steeper Embankment Slope
If a tendency to form a steeper embankment slope is established, the recommended action plan is as
follows:

Reduce the percent solids by weight of the underflow from the cyclone station. Record the initial
and reduced percent solids and the achieved embankment slope for both conditions.

If the reduced percent solids results in erosion of the embankment slope, the possibility of
adopting a steeper than the design embankment slope should be investigated. The Engineer of
Record should be immediately notified and assessments of the effect of the steeper slope on the
embankment stability should be evaluated.

4.3.4.3

Excessive Seepage at Start-up

A start-up water pond will be impounded against the Starter Dam prior to the beginning of the
operations of the TSF to compensate for initial water losses and potential delays in the water recovery
from the impoundment and the embankment (Section 4.3.2). The design of the Starter Dam
incorporates features intended to reduce the potential for seepage from the start-up water pond and
from the deposited overflow tailing prior to the development of a tailing beach. The lower
permeability veneer on the upstream face of the Starter Dam and the significant thickness of the body
of the Starter Dam are expected to impede seepage from the impoundment to the downstream face of
the Starter Dam.
Seepage at the downstream face of the Starter Dam would generate difficulties for the construction of
the tailing embankment. In the unlikely event of excessive seepage during the start-up period, the
following measures are recommended:

Install prefabricated seepage collection concrete sumps at locations where seepage is observed.

Install pumps in the sumps and direct the collected seepage away from the embankment face.
Collected seepage may be discharged into the drains downstream of the active embankment toe.
Care should be taken to protect the drains or the natural ground materials from erosion.

The number and size of the sumps would depend on the amount and distribution of the observed
seepage.

4.3.4.4 Problem/Solution Matrix


An effort has been made to identify potential operational problems that could develop during
operation of the TSF and corresponding solutions to the problems. Table 4-3-2 presents a summary
of potential problems, possible solutions, and individuals that would be responsible for addressing the
problems, should they occur. The table should be considered to be a living document and it should
be expanded and updated to reflect lessons learned during operations.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 32

Table 4-3-2 Problem-Solution Matrix for TSF Construction.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Problem
1. Insufficient u/f quantity in
distribution to maintain
velocity
2. Insufficient u/f quality
(>15% minus #200 sieve) - not
meeting target u/f gradation

3. Sanding of u/f line occurs

4. O/f line breaks or


downcommer breaks or
begins to significantly
erode face of starter dam
5. Clear water pond develops
in west drainage u/s of
dam
6. Plugging of u/f discharge
port (partial)
Plugging of entire
downcommer and spray bar
7. Insufficient u/f
split/production

8. Pond management prior to


beach formation
9. Pond management after
beach formation

10. Erosion of embankment


face
11. Flatter than 3.5H:1V
embankment slope
12. Steeper than 3.5H:1V
embankment slope
13. U/f drainage time longer
than expected

14. Difficulty achieving


specified u/f density

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 33

TABLE 4-3-2
TSF Operations Manual
Problem-Solution Matrix
Response

Symptom of Problem

Responsible Person

a. Sanding occurs
b. Headers dont operate
properly
c. Low line pressure
Particle size analyzer alarm goes
on

a. Divert u/f to Eastern Quebrada


b. Divert to 12 header if 16 header is in use
c. Once sufficient flow returns, return u/f feed to
header on dam
As trend of <#200 increases take action:
st
Adjust dilution into 1 stage cyclones
Adjust cyclone pressure
Adjust cyclowash pressure

The Tailing Operator or Tailing Control Room Operator


identifies the problem and notifies Tailing Shift
Supervisor to implement solution.

a. Distribution box overflows


b. High pressure going onto
dam. No pressure along dam
crest (200 m away)
Erosion observed

a. Switch to Eastern Quebrada or other u/f header


b. Clear u/f line of sand (reestablish flow with
water; flush entire u/f line at end of cleaning
process)
Switch to another u/f discharge line and repair cause
of problem

The Tailing Operator or Helper informs Control Room


Operator to implement response, or Control Room
Operator implements response.
The Tailing Operator informs theTailing Shift Supervisor.
The Tailing Operator or Helper implements response.

Clear water pond observed

Deposit u/f into west drainage at end of u/f line.

The Tailing Operator or Helper observes problem and


implements response, notifies Tailing Shift Supervisor

Plugging of individual ports


occurs and is observed

Beat on it with mallet

The Tailing Operator or Helper implements response


and notifies the Tailing Shift Supervisor.

Discharge flow from all ports


stops
a. Survey indicates that placed
quantity is lower than
theoretically predicted based
on tonnage processed.
b. Theoretical calculation of split
based on concurrent samples
of whole, o/f and u/f samples.
Continued water pond located
against starter dam

Move flow to another downcommer and clear


blockage with water
Review grind gradations
Adjust cyclones
Adjust dilution water
Adjust cyclowash pressure
Reset grind target to coarser grind

a. Lack of uniform beach along


u/s face of embankment
b. Formation of trapped water
ponds
c. North limit of pond too close
to dam face
Erosion observed

Adjust o/f discharge locations to result in uniform


beach and eliminate trapped water ponds.

a. Flatter embankment slope


b. Reduced freeboard
Steeper slope
a. Inability to achieve the
specified compaction
according to the adopted
schedule
b. Wet surface observed.
c. Water surfaces when heavy
equipment passes.
Measured in-situ densities do
not meet specifications.

15. Erosion of the filter


material over the drains

Erosion observed

16. Heavy dust problems

Dust observed on tailing


impoundment
Dust observed on downstream
face of dam

Use less makeup water from fresh water system and


more from the Tailing impoundment

Reduce pond size/depth


Repair eroded areas with dozers and compactors.
Increase concentration of underflow
Increase u/f concentration. Check u/f gradation.
Reduce u/f concentration

Take a recently deposited underflow sample and


check gradation. Report the results to the
Engineer of Record.
Adjust cyclones to produce fewer fines.
Coarsen the tailing grind.
Reduce placement layer thickness.
Remove and mix the wet sand and recompact.
Conduct Standard Proctor Test on the area with
difficulties for control. Measure in-situ densities
and moisture.
Adjust moisture of layer by spreading to a lower
thickness if wet of optimum or by spreading to
lower thickness and adding water if dry of
optimum.
Spread sand layer to a lower thickness and then
compact.
Increase number of compactor passes.
Identify source of erosion and divert or
implement barriers.
Repair eroded areas by replacing eroded filter
material.
Protect the filter material by mechanical
placement and compaction of tailing underflow
material to cover the filter material.
Change tailing distribution locations in the
impoundment to wet areas generating dust.
Move sand distribution location to place over area
generating dust. Check the availability of sufficient
freeboard and adjust the overflow deposition location
if necessary.

The Control Room Operator notifies the Tailing Operator


to checks the parameters and to correct the situation.

The Tailing Shift Supervisor notifies the Tailing


Superintendent.
The Tailing Superintendent and Concentrator Manager
implement solution.

Tailing Shift Supervisor


The Tailing Superintendent and Concentrator Manager
will coordinate
The Tailing Shift Supervisor
The Tailing Superintendent in coordination with
Concentrator Superintendent
The Tailing Shift Supervisor
The Control Room Operator as advised by the Tailing
Operator.
The Tailing Shift Supervisor to notify the Control Room
Operator to implement solution.
The Tailing Superintendent to notify the Control Room
Operator to implement solution.
The Tailing Dam QA/QC Supervisor
The Control Room Operator as advised by the Tailing
Superintendent
The Concentrator Manager
The Tailing Superintendent
Tailing Shift Supervisor

Tailing Superintendent

Tailing Shift Supervisor

Tailing Operator
Tailing Shift Supervisor

Apply water with sprinklers.


17. Compaction equipment
availability

18. Earthquake

Compaction takes longer than


scheduled.
Insufficient number of
compactors available to replace
faulty equipment.
Earthquake felt by the personnel

Buy more compactors.


Rent or contract another compactor for temporary
use.
Access if there is imminent danger of failure. If a
failure is imminent or in progress follow the
emergency response procedures.
If there is no imminent danger of failure, perform an
immediate visual inspection of dam installations,
download records from accelerometers, analyze
piezometer data, and repair damage.
Take readings at the seepage measurement weir.
Based on the flow rate, estimate the time to fill up
the sump. Investigate the reasons for the power
outage and the potential time to mitigate the
problem. If necessary activate the emergency power
generator.

The Tailing Superintendent or qualified person, trained in


safety and emergency response procedures

Control Room Operator


The Engineer of Record with the Tailing Superintendent

19. Electrical outage (effect


on seepage pump back
system)

Accumulation of water in sump.

20. Cyclone system


availability/insufficient
cyclone operating time

Cyclone availability less than


design
Reduction of freeboard

21. Time required to relocate


reclaim water barges

Insufficient dilution water at the


cyclone station
Lack of sufficient water at the
concentrator.
Pumps cannot operate due to

Increase flow of make-up water from the Fresh


Water System

22. Slime encroachment into

Tailing Superintendent

Investigate reasons for the unavailability.


Assess the effect on the facility and the available
freeboard.

Construct a rockfill barrier with a spillway along

Tailing Superintendent
Tailing Superintendent should advise Engineer of
Record if signs of distress are identified.
Tailing Superintendent and Concentrator Superintendent

Control Room Operator and Tailing Shift Supervisor


Concentrator Manager and Tailing Superintendent
Tailing Shift Supervisor

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Problem
barge channel
23. More water reports to
central drainage than
accommodated by
central barge
24. Lower than expected
settling density of
overflow

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 34

TABLE 4-3-2
TSF Operations Manual
Problem-Solution Matrix
Response

Symptom of Problem
excess silt.
Silty water appears at discharge
of reclaim water.
Increased size of pond in central
drainage.
Lack of sufficient water at
Concentrator or Cyclone station
Decrease of freeboard

25. Phreatic surface higher


than the established limit.

High phreatic levels measured in


piezometers

the downstream side of the reclaim water barge


channel.
Check bathymetry of the reclaim water pond
Limit tailing deposition from the eastern side of
the TSF. Change tailing distribution within
impoundment as appropriate to encourage water
flow into the east canyon.
Install additional pump on the central barge.
Increase sand production by increasing cyclone
availability and/or increasing amount of sands
produced (coarser grind).
Investigate the possibility of using waste rock or
quarry material to supplement the required sand
to maintain freeboard.
Inspect the embankment for signs of distress
(slides, cracks, seepage, etc.)
Review the monitoring results to establish
trends.
Beach and Reclaim pond management if pond is
too close to upstream embankment face.

Responsible Person
Tailing Operator
Tailing Superintendent

Concentrator Manager and Tailing Superintendent


Tailing Shift Supervisor
Concentrator Manager and Tailing Superintendent
Engineer of Record and Concentrator Manager

The Tailing Superintendent notifies the Engineer of


Record
Engineer of Record and Tailing Superintendent
Tailing Shift Supervisor

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.3.5

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 35

General Embankment Construction

Raising the embankment will be ongoing throughout the operational life of the tailing storage facility.
The embankment will be raised ahead of the impoundment by at least 3 m, at all times, except for the
start-up period, as described in the previous Subsections 4.3.3 and 4.3.4. The estimated impoundment
and embankment elevations with time are presented in Figure 4-3-5. Details on the development of
the impoundment and embankment raise, depicted in Figure 4-3-5, are presented in Volume 5
Material Balance Analysis. This Subsection describes the operation of embankment construction and
how to implement key embankment features to facilitate performance according to design.
Embankment Construction Process
The process of embankment construction will involve three basic steps:

Step 1: Deposit underflow tailing materials in a loose 0.3 m thick layer.


Step 2: Allow the deposited underflow to drain.
Step 3: Compact the drained underflow materials to 98% of the maximum dry density per ASTM
D 698.

The number of passes required to achieve 98% of the maximum dry density will be established during
the start-up process and will be used as a general guidance for the compaction of the underflow.
The underflow sands will be discharged in a consistent manner along the embankment crest beginning
at either the East or the West end of the embankment and progressing towards the other end. The
tailing underflow deposition along the downstream slope is intended to promote a sheet-flow and
prevent erosion of the previously placed and compacted underflow tailing materials. If erosion of the
previously deposited tailing materials is observed, the reasons for the erosion should be established
and modifications to the operations implemented. Potential changes to the operations could be an
increase in the percent solids of the underflow, a change in the gradation of the whole tailing materials
(coarser grind), or an adjustment at the cyclone station to modify the gradation of the produced
underflow, among others.
The underflow will be discharged through spigots at about 2 m intervals off the underflow delivery
line mounted on a steel structure with a jacking header. The spigots along an approximately 200 m
length of the delivery line will be in operation at any one time. The deposition will continue until a 0.3
m thick loose layer parallel to the slope is created. The deposition will then progressively move to the
next 200 m length along the embankment crest. Raising the jacking header should be coordinated with
the embankment rate of rise and the deposition sequence. Clearance of a minimum of 4.5 m is
required at any one time beneath the jacking header structure to allow compaction equipment to move
beneath it.
The newly deposited sands will then be allowed to drain until access of the compaction equipment on
the sands is possible. The moisture content of the underflow should be near optimum prior to
compaction. It is expected that it will take up to one day for the newly deposited underflow layer to
drain. The drained underflow layer will be compacted using Caterpillar D6 dozers towing tandem 6 t
vibratory compactors and self propelled 8 ton vibratory smooth drum compactors until 98% of the
maximum density (ASTM D 698) is achieved.
Typically 3 compaction units will be operating at the same time on the slope and one will be operating
on the crest. A fifth unit will be on standby for use during maintenance.
Embankment Lift Rate of Raise
The time to construct a complete 0.3 m lift along the entire embankment length will vary from a few
days in the beginning of the operations to a few weeks at the end of the operations. The time depends
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 36

on the length of the embankment, the area of the embankment downstream slope, and the underflow
production rate. The estimated crest and slope areas for various embankment elevations are shown in
Table 4-3-3 below. Figure 4-3-6 presents the estimated time for construction of one lift at various
points in time.

Approx.
Year
1
3
5
8
11
14
17
22

TABLE 4-3-3
EMBANKMENT CREST AND SLOPE AREAS
Embankment
Crest Area
Slope Area
Crest Elevation
2
m
m
m2
2485
40,000
208,000
2530
57,750
495,850
2550
83,500
660,250
2580
101,500
832,550
2600
109,000
955,100
2620
113,150
1,177,600
2640
118,800
1,445,200
2660
122,000
1,600,000

Raise Rate
The estimated embankment rate of rise in meters per week (monthly average) from the time the
embankment reaches elevation 2485 m till the end of the operations, is presented in Figure 4-3-7.
Accordingly, during the last 2 to 3 months of the first year of operation, the embankment raise rate
would require the construction of two lifts per week as the embankment is raised above the starter
dam crest. After approximately 2.5 years from the beginning of the operations, the construction of
one lift per week will be sufficient.
Freeboard
Freeboard is the vertical distance between the embankment crest elevation and the impoundment
elevation against the embankment. The crest of the tailing embankment should be maintained at a
minimum of 3 m above the impounded tailing slimes located upstream of the embankment crest.
Considering the high rate of rise of the impoundment, it is recommended that underflow production
and embankment construction continue even though 3 m or more of freeboard are available at any
one time. This will be important to be able to maintain sufficient freeboard for events such as planned
moves of the cyclone station and unplanned events.
Beach Length
A start up water pond will be developed within the impoundment prior to the start of the operations.
The volume of the water in the start-up water pond is intended to be consumed within the first few
months of the operations. The deposition of tailing within the impoundment from the Starter Dam
crest will push the pond away from the embankment and create a tailing beach. By the time the tailing
impoundment reaches the crest of the Starter Dam, the length of the tailing beach should be at least
400 m. Due to the small size of the impoundment at this time, the estimated depth of a pond
developed due to the PMF could be about 2 m at the upstream face of the embankment. For this
reason, it will be preferable to maintain at least 5 m of freeboard within the first couple of years of
operation. After the end of the second year of operation, 3 m of freeboard should be sufficient to
store the runoff from the PMF.
The location of the reclaim water pond and the length of the tailing beach throughout the operation of
the TSF are illustrated in Figures 4-4-1 through 4-4-6. The expected beach length at the end of the
2nd year of operation is approximately 600 m. After about 10 years of operation, the reclaim water
pond is expected to be at least 1000 m away from the embankment. These beach lengths will be
sufficient to store the runoff volume from the PMF without encroaching on the embankment.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 37

In summary, the TSF should be operated and managed so that a minimum reclaim water pond is
maintained, and a maximum beach length is achieved at any one time. The beach length should be at
least 400 m when the impoundment reaches the crest of the Starter Dam and should increase
continuously over time to 1000 m or more from the embankment by year 10 and beyond.
Flow Length along the Slope
Based on experience at similar tailing facilities and benchmarking studies performed by MWH, PSI
and SMCV/PD, it is expected that the underflow will deposit by gravity flow from the spray bars
down the slope to a certain distance, generally between 400 and 600 m, before significant mounding
of the downstream slope occurs. That distance cannot be determined with certainty at this time. The
length of the downstream embankment slope is expected to reach 600 m within the fourth year of
operation. The movement of the underflow along the slope will be monitored and when the length of
the slope exceeds the underflow flow distance, additional measures will be needed to distribute the
underflow along the slope. It is envisioned that spraybars fed from the header on the crest will be
extended to deposit the material in the lower portions of the slope. A similar method is currently
being used at the Quillayes TSF at Los Pelambres mine in northern Chile. Another option for
facilitating the deposition of underflow along the embankment slope is by creating a separate bench
on the embankment slope and placing an additional jacking header line on the bench for deposition of
underflow to the lower portion of the slope.
4.3.6

Deposition on the Embankment Crest

This section describes the procedure for raising the embankment crest after it reaches elevation 2485
m (approximately 10 months after the start of the operations). The estimated embankment rate of rise
at this time is about 0.6 m/week (Figure 4-3-7). The embankment crest is 50 m wide. While the
embankment is raised, access along the crest should be provided for the purposes of operating the
discharge spigots, jacking the underflow and overflow headers, and for underflow placement,
spreading and compaction equipment.
Raising the crest will follow the 3-step procedure for raising the embankment slope: deposit, drain,
and compact. Underflow will be deposited on the crest using spray bars mounted inboard (i.e. facing
upstream) on the underflow header line to produce windrows of sand. The configuration of the
windrows is illustrated on Figure 4-3-7. The windrows will be spread and compacted mechanically.
The following assumptions were made for the development of a procedure for raising the
embankment crest:

The embankment length at elevation 2485 m is 800 m. The embankment length was divided into
8 x 100 m segments.

The embankment width is divided into two approximately 25 m wide segments (upstream and
downstream).

Deposition takes place over about 200 m embankment length at any time. Sufficient material for a
30 cm loose lift across the embankment crest (over 200 m length) is deposited.
Deposition on the embankment crest will be concurrent with deposition on the embankment
slope.

Sixteen hours are required for deposition along any 200 m segment.

Twenty-four hours are allowed for draining the deposited material.

Eight hours are allowed for spreading and compaction of a 30 cm lift.


MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 38

Access to the crest is from the east end of the embankment.

There is no vehicular access to the area where deposition or draining takes place.

The following sequence and procedure to raise the 50-m wide crest is proposed:
EMBANKMENT CREST CONSTRUCTION
East

Hours
0-8
U/S
D/S
SLOPE

P
P

P
P

U/S
D/S
SLOPE

D
D

P
P

P
P

U/S
D/S
SLOPE

D
D

D
D

P
P

P
P

U/S
D/S
SLOPE

D
D

D
D

D
D

P
P

P
P

U/S
D/S
SLOPE

C
C
C

D
D

D
D

D
D

C
C
C

D
D

West

C
C
C

D
D

D
D

D
D

C
C
C

D
D

D
D

C
C
C

D
D

C
C
C

P
P

P
P

D
D

D
D

P
P

P
P

C
C
C

D
D

D
D

D
D

P
P

P
P

D
D

D
D

D
D

C
C
C

8-16

16-24

24-32

32-40

40-48
U/S
D/S
SLOPE
48-56
U/S
D/S
SLOPE

56-64
U/S
D/S
SLOPE

Legend:

No Shading
Notes:
P= Place (deposit)
D= Drain
C = Compact

=No vehicular access from East


=Limited vehicular access from East
=Free access from East
U/S= Upstream half of crest
D/S = Downstream half of crest
Slope = Downstream embankment slope

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.3.7

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 39

Placement of the Underflow Sands over the Drains

A network of underdrains will be placed within the footprint of the ultimate embankment to assist in
draining the embankment underflow materials. The underdrain system will consist of a blanket drain
covering the alluvium at the valley bottom and finger drains in all main drainages. The drains will
consist of three layers from the bottom up: a drain layer, a transition layer and a filter layer. The
purpose of the transition and filter layers is to provide filter compatibility between the drain material
and the underflow tailing material. The drains will be constructed in increments as the embankment is
raised. Details about the drain design are provided in Volume 8 Seepage Collection System Design.
The drain construction schedule during the operating life of the TSF is presented in Section 4.5.1.
Deposition over these drains should be done carefully to prevent damage to or contamination of the
drains.
After construction of the drains, the drain surface will be covered temporarily with geotextile to
protect it from erosion, contamination, or equipment traffic. As the embankment rises and its
footprint is extended, the geotextile will be removed progressively. At this time, to protect the top
(filter) layer of the embankment underdrains from possible erosion and contamination by the
hydraulically deposited underflow tailing, the drain surface will be covered with a protection layer. The
protection layer will consist of an approximately 1 m thick layer of mechanically placed, drained
underflow tailing materials. Three to four 30 cm thick loose layers will be placed and compacted to
98% of maximum dry density (ASTM D 698) to create the one-meter thick protective layer.
The underflow material to be used for the drain protection layer will be stockpiled at pre-selected
locations downstream of the embankment toe prior to placement. The underflow will be discharged
via a 16 steel pipe off the main header down to the selected stockpile area. The underflow slurry will
discharge into a pit excavated in bedrock for energy dissipation. The stockpiled underflow material
will be allowed to drain and then will be hauled to the underdrains for placement and compaction.
Prior to placement of the underflow material, the drain surface should be carefully inspected and any
damage or contamination should be repaired before proceeding.
4.3.8

Special Embankment Features

The current design of the embankment has a few bends along its alignment. The reason for the bend
on the left (west) abutment is the proximity of a private property.
The purpose of the bends on the right side of the embankment is to avoid sections of the
embankment crest being located over the upstream slope of hills where drainage of the embankment
material will be difficult. The embankment alignment was optimized during the design of the pipeline
corridor from the cyclone station to the Starter Dam. Figures 4-3-8 and 4-3-9 show a plan and a
profile along the pipeline alignment, respectively. The original and optimized embankment alignments
are also shown in Figure 4-3-8.
Potential future changes to the embankment alignment should be consulted with the Design Engineer
prior to implementation.
4.3.9

Deposition of Underflow Sands into the Eastern Quebrada

The steep (steeper than 3.5H:1V) and relatively high hills on the east side of the embankment were
identified as representing a challenge to the embankment construction within the first few years of the
operation. The identified potential issues include the following:

Underflow placed on steep slopes will flow rapidly to the tributary valley bottom and down the
plunge of the valley over the drain, thus potentially eroding them.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 40

It would be difficult to establish the required 3.5H:1V embankment slope, due to the steeper
starting slope of the hills.

Filling the relatively large Eastern Quebrada (the second drainage on the east side of the valley
downstream of the Starter Dam) represents a challenge.

Deposition over the steep hills is envisioned to take place with spray bars extended from the main
header, similar to the start-up arrangement that will be used prior to the underflow reaching the
Starter Dam crest. Some mechanical redistribution of the material beyond the edges of the spray bars
using a dozer will be necessary as well. In addition, dozer pushing of material from the downstream
face of the embankment is envisioned as the embankment spreads laterally up the drainages. To
visualize the process of filling the Eastern Quebrada (EQ) a series of 3-dimensional (3D) snap-shots
of the embankment construction spanning between month 16 and month 36 after the start of the
operation were developed. The 3D snap-shots prepared are presented in Figure 4-3-10 through Figure
4-3-15 and described below.

Figure 4-3-10 illustrates the estimated embankment configuration approximately 16 months after
the beginning of the operations (February 1, 2008). The estimated embankment crest elevation is
2500 m. The portion of the finger drain in the EQ completed as a part of the capital construction
(approximately 100 m into the drainage) is shown in the figure. The remainder of the finger drain
will not yet be constructed at this point in time. Placement of the remaining portion of the finger
drain in the EQ should begin in month 16. Production of the drain material should start several
months prior to the finger drain construction.

Figure 4-3-11 illustrates the estimated embankment configuration at the end of year 2 (24 months;
October 1, 2008). The embankment crest elevation is 2514 m. The first 100 m of the finger drain
is covered with previously stockpiled material spread in 30 cm (loose) lifts with a dozer and
compacted. The remaining part of the finger drain has been constructed in the EQ. Placement of
2 to 4 lifts of compacted underflow for drain protection is initiated. The underflow is deposited at
4 locations using spray bars. Boulders are placed at the discharge points to dissipate the energy of
the slurry, if necessary.

Figure 4-3-12 presents the embankment configuration after 26 months (December 1, 2008). The
crest elevation is 2518 m. It was assumed that one lift is placed along the quebrada every 2 days.
The underflow is deposited using the spray bars, pushed and spread with dozers and compacted.
It is assumed that the slope will be approximately 4H:1V at this time and will progressively
steepen to 3.5H:1V. About 30 lifts have been placed during the 2-month period. The time
required for placement and compaction will be only partial days because of the low volumes of
underflow that will be placed. Therefore, placement of this number of lifts in the two-month
period is considered feasible.

Figure 4-3-13 shows the embankment configuration after about 28 months (February 1, 2009).
The embankment crest elevation is 2520 m. At this time a 3.5H:1V slope has been established.
Deposition continues from the four locations using the spray bars. The material is pushed and
spread between the deposition points to the required slope with dozers and compacted.

Figure 4-3-14 illustrates the embankment configuration after about 32 months from the start of
the operations (June 1, 2009). The estimated embankment crest elevation at this time is 2525 m.

Figure 4-3-15 shows the embankment configuration at the end of the 3rd year (36 months;
October 1, 2009). The embankment crest elevation is 2530 m. At this time most of the EQ has
been filled in and a slope of 3.5H:1V has been established from the crest of the embankment.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 41

Deposition in the EQ will begin from its downstream end by pushing previously stockpiled material
over the initially installed drain. The stockpile line will be installed prior to the beginning of the
operations. After the construction of the finger drains is completed, deposition from three or four
spray bars off the main header line and from one spray bar off the stockpile line will begin. The
spray bars will be located at about 100 to 150 m spacing. Initially the material will be discharged into a
pile of boulders, if necessary, to prevent erosion of the drains. The first 2 to 4 lifts (0.6 to 1.2 meters)
over the drain will be hauled and spread over the drains and compacted. Subsequently, the material
will be hydraulically deposited via spray bars and spread in such a way so that a slope is established,
and the slope is steepened with every consecutive lift until a 3.5H:1V slope is achieved. The pipes with
the spray bars will be withdrawn/shortened as filling the valley progresses, similar to underflow
placement concept planned for start-up. The locations of the spray bars shown in the attached figures
are approximate and for illustration purposes only. The design of the spray bars is presented in
drawings PSP108-C-3830-50T-026, 027 and 028 by Fluor/PSI.
Filling the first (smaller) valley on the east side of the embankment is envisioned to take place by
pushing and spreading underflow material from the embankment face into the valley as the
embankment is raised. Another alternative is using a spray bar off the stockpiling line. The material
will be spread in 30 cm lifts and compacted.
4.3.10

Embankment Instrumentation

Embankment instrumentation will consist of piezometers installed in the Starter Dam, in the
foundation, in the drains, and in the embankment underflow. The purpose of these piezometers is to
monitor pore water pressures and phreatic surface within the embankment. Maintaining pore water
pressures and the phreatic surface within the design limits is critical to the performance and stability of
the TSF.
In addition, two accelerometers will be placed on bedrock outcrops close to the embankment to
monitor ground accelerations during seismic events. The data registered in these accelerometers will
be used to verify the seismic parameters utilized in the design of the TSF.
Piezometers will be installed in the embankment throughout the operating life of the TSF according to
the design and construction permit approved by the Ministry of Energy of Mines of Peru. A plan view
of the piezometers that are being installed as part of capital construction are shown in Figure 4-3-16.
The locations of the piezometers in cross sections are shown in Figure 4-3-17. Detailed design
drawings for these piezometers are included as Package 6A in Volume 10. The locations of the
piezometers planned to be installed during operations are shown in plan view on Figure 4-3-18 and on
sections on Figure 4-3-19.
A description of the system and layout of the piezometers is summarized below:

Pore water pressures will be monitored within the embankment foundation, embankment
drainage system, and Starter Dam and underflow embankment. Piezometers have been located
accordingly.

The piezometer network is comprised mainly of electric Vibrating Wire Piezometers (VWPs).
Some open-standpipe piezometers are installed to allow direct measurement of the phreatic
surface or pore pressure without the need of electronic devices such as the VWPs.

Cables from the VWPs are extended to the surface to boxes named I/O XPAK. Data from the
I/O XPAKs are transmitted through a wireless network to a host computer located at the cyclone
station. The wireless network requires direct line of site between antennas and transmitters. The
objective of the wireless network is to minimize cable runs prone to failure due to heavy
equipment activity or lightning.
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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 42

Piezometers that will be installed during operations should be designed and implemented according to
the following guidelines and criteria:

Use piezometer locations indicated in Figures 4-3-19 as a basis. Move slightly or relocate
piezometers to address specific issues that may be detected during operation of the TSF. These
issues will likely be identified from the periodic monitoring of pore water pressures in previously
installed piezometers and seepage monitoring data, among others.

Decide which locations would be implemented as stand-pipe piezometers.

Design Engineer will approve final location of piezometers before installation and supervise the
installations.

Minimize cable runs and use existing support structures to the extent possible.

Drill and embed piezometers using as a basis the Drawings and Specifications utilized for capital
construction.

Coordinate with the Tailing Superintendent to ensure that the data from the VWPs to be installed
will be recorded, synthesized and interpreted in the plant SCADA system.

Electric and stand-pipe piezometers may fail. These piezometers may need to be replaced. Consult
with the Design Engineer to define replacement or potential relocation of failed piezometers.
4.3.11

Embankment Construction Schedule

Construction of the embankment is envisioned to continue throughout the operational life of the TSF,
currently estimated at approximately 22 years. Embankment construction is planned to take place 24
hours/day and 7 days/week. Details on the embankment construction schedule are presented in
Section 11.0 and illustrated in Figure 11-1.
4.3.12

QA/QC of Embankment Construction

Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) activities are critical to the proper construction of a
stable and serviceable embankment. This section describes the QA/QC requirements for the
construction of the embankment and the monitoring of tailing underflow sand placed as part of the
embankment construction. This operation manual does not cover the operation of the tailing stream
prior to it exiting the tailing distribution system, all processes prior to this limit shall be controlled by
the Flour and PSI manuals governing these facilities. Table 4-3-3 contains a summary of the
parameters, test methodologies, test frequency, and test location required under this manual. These
requirements augment the general requirements for facility surveillance presented in a later section.

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Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 43

Parameter
Gradation*
% Solids*
% Fines*
Lift Thickness
In Place Density and
Moisture Content
In Place Density and
Moisture Content
Gradation of In Place
Underflow
Compaction
Characteristics

Slope

Freeboard

Erosion

TABLE 4-3-4
SUMMARY OF QC/QA OBSERVATION PARAMETERS
Method
Frequency
Location
Defined by
Defined by PSI/Fluor,
Cyclone Station
PSI/Fluor
continuous if possible
Defined by
Defined by PSI/Fluor,
Cyclone Station
PSI/Fluor
continuous if possible
Defined by
Defined by PSI/Fluor,
Cyclone Station
PSI/Fluor
continuous if possible
Visual-Lathe
Continuous as
Throughout the active placement
with 30 cm mark
underflow is placed
area. Lathe to be placed in a grid at
50m spacing.
ASTM D2922
1 test per 4800 m2 per
Randomly within each 50x50m grid.
ASTM D3017
lift
One confirmation test using ASTM
1 test for every 10
ASTM D1556
D1556 for every ten measurements
measurements with
ASTM D2216 or
made using the ASTM2922.
ASTM D2922
ASTM D4643
ASTM D422
2 tests per 24 hours
Samples should be taken from
points close to and far away from
discharge points.
Underflow Placement Area, alternate
ASTM D698
1 test per 24 hours
when underflow is being between three locations: (1) close to
underflow discharge point, (2) center
placed
of slope downstream of discharge
points, and (3) lower part along slope
downstream of discharge points.
The downstream slope of the
Visual and
Visual: daily
embankment.
survey
Survey: weekly or as
required based on
visual inspections
Along the entire crest
Visual and
Visual: daily
survey
Survey: weekly or as
required based on
visual inspections
Visual
Daily
Observations should be made for the
entire face and recorded daily.

*Refer to Operations Manual for Area 3800 for details.

It is planned that the QA/QC services will be performed by the facility Design Engineer during at
least the first 3 years of operation. QA/QC responsibility beyond the first 3 years will be determined
at that time.
4.3.12.1

Lift Thickness

Loose lift thickness (prior to compaction) shall be monitored for each lift in all active underflow
placement areas on the embankment face and crest. Loose lift thickness shall not exceed 30 cm. Visual
control of lift thickness should be maintained using survey lathe (or similar) marked at 30 cm and set
in a grid at 50 meter spacing. Multiple lifts can be marked on a single lathe after the previous lift has
been compacted. The change in lift thickness after compaction should be recorded.
Lathe marking loose lift horizons will be buried as compaction equipment progresses across the
working face and should be reestablished whenever a new lift is initiated within an area. Control of the
lathe grid should be established with survey equipment. The grid points can be periodically
reestablished using a survey tape to measure spacing and subsequent lift thickness between surveys of
the embankment face in a working area. The density of the lathe grid may be adjusted if tighter
spacing is needed to control lift thickness. Observations of lift thickness shall be recorded in the Daily
Report (Appendix C) to document that the described loose lift thickness is not exceeded.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.3.12.2

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 44

In-place Density and Moisture Content

In place density and moisture content measurements shall be monitored to confirm that the
underflow material is compacted to 98% of Standard Proctor maximum dry density (unit weight) at or
close to optimum moisture content (estimated at 15% to 20% based on compaction tests performed
during the final design of the TSF). The nuclear moisture density gauge shall be the primary method
of measuring density and moisture content. Measurements with the nuclear moisture density gauge
shall conform to the requirements of ASTM D2922 for density measurements and ASTM D3017 for
moisture content measurement. Density and moisture content measurements should be taken at an
interval of one test per 4800 m2 of material placed for each lift. Additionally, one density and moisture
content measurement conforming with the requirements of ASTM D1556 and ASTM D2216 or
ASTM D4643, respectively, shall be made for every ten measurements using the nuclear gauge.
The results of density and moisture content measurements and the compaction curve utilized to
calculate percent completion shall be recorded on numbered Form A (included in Appendix C1) in
order to document that the specified compaction requirements are being met in the field. In case
compaction requirements are not met, this should also be documented in Form A, and measures shall
be taken to meet the compaction requirements. These measures (e.g. number of additional passes of
compaction) should be indicated in Form B (included in Appendix C1). Form B should be attached to
Form A, and should show that compaction requirements are met after implementing the corrective
measures.
Density and moisture measurements will be submitted as part of the Weekly Tailing Facility
Operations Report (Appendix C2). The frequency of measurements may be reduced with the approval
of the Design Engineer once methodology and number of passes for compaction and management of
moisture content have been developed and proven to be reliable. The Design Engineer shall be
consulted prior to making any adjustment to the frequency of any testing described in this manual.
Additional requirements for documenting the number of equipment passes shall be imposed as part of
any quality assurance/control program adjustment that allows for the reduction in the frequency of
direct density measurements.
4.3.12.3

Gradation of In-place Underflow

Gradation of in place underflow materials shall be characterized twice per 24-hour day. One sample
for testing shall be collected from an area near the location of initial deposition from the discharge
point. The second sample shall be collected from the portion of the active placement area farthest
from the initial deposition point. The locations of sample collection should be varied between
extremes vertically and horizontally across placement areas to provide data from which occurrence of
segregation can be evaluated.
Gradations shall be performed in accordance with ASTM D422 Particle-Size Analysis of Soils. The
data generated from this testing shall be documented in Form C (included in Appendix C1) and
included as part of the Weekly Tailing Facility Operations Report. The Design Engineer and the
Tailing Superintendent will evaluate how closely the gradation matches the material considered in the
design. If gradations deviate from the range provided in Figure 4-2-1, the operation of the cyclone
station and plant will be checked. In no event will underflow material with a fines content
(percent passing the No. 200 sieve) exceeding 15% be placed on the embankment.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.3.12.4

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 45

Compaction Characteristics of In-place Underflow

The compaction characteristics of the tailing underflow sands being deposited on the embankment
shall be tested once every day when underflow is placed. Compaction characteristics shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM D698. This data will be used in conjunction with the density measurements
performed that day so that the proper compaction curve is used to calculate the percent compaction.
The results of the testing shall be documented in Form D (included in Appendix C1) and reported as
part of the Weekly Tailing Facility Operations Report.
The project engineer may approve the use of ASTM D4253 to provide a maximum dry density if
ASTM D698 fails to provide a well-defined compaction curve. If this adjustment becomes necessary,
a new specification for in place density may be developed.
4.3.12.5

Slope

The slope of the embankment should be monitored on a daily basis within the active placement area
to provide for construction in accordance with the 3.5H:1V design downstream slope of the
embankment. Monitoring should be performed continually through visual observation. However, the
control of the embankment slope should be surveyed on a weekly basis as a minimum. At least once a
month the face of the embankment should be surveyed to provide data to measure the slope and
progress of embankment construction. This survey should also be used to reestablish the grid of
survey lathe used to control loose lift thickness as indicated in section 4.3.12.1.
If the slope of the embankment is flatter or steeper than 3.5H:1V, the Design Engineer should be
informed and the need to implement the contingency measures described in Section 4.3.2 should be
considered.
4.3.12.6

Freeboard

Freeboard between the impounded tailing material and the crest of the embankment should be
maintained at 3 meters or more throughout the operational life of the facility. The freeboard should be
confirmed through visual observations on a daily basis. This daily observation should focus on the
areas where tailing overflow is being deposited and where there is crest construction activity.
Staff gauges will be installed on the tailing impoundment beach (up to about 100 m from the upstream
edge of the embankment crest) at about 200 m distance along the perimeter, to facilitate weekly
estimate of the available freeboard. The freeboard along the entire crest of the embankment should be
surveyed at least once every month. In addition, survey equipment should be employed to confirm
freeboard whenever a question arises as to the freeboard meeting the minimum requirements. Daily
observations should be reported as part of the Daily Operations Report, and summarized in the
Weekly Operations Report (Appendix C2). The elevation of the reclaim water pond in relation to the
crest level should be recorded daily.
If the measured freeboard is less than 3 m, crest deposition should immediately begin in the area of
insufficient freeboard. If underflow is not available due to problems at the cyclone station, the use of
borrow materials should be immediately investigated and implemented. Deposition in the
impoundment should take place from an upstream deposition point and not from the embankment
crest.
The beach length and slope along the perimeter of the impoundment should also be surveyed at least
monthly. Daily visual observations of the beach length should be made to verify that the minimum
beach length criterion has been met (see Section 4.3.5).

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

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Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 46

Erosion

The embankment face and crest shall be inspected for erosion upon occurrence of any construction,
precipitation, or unplanned event that may induce erosion. Additionally, the Shift Supervisors should
inspect areas around the underflow discharge points for signs of excessive erosion on a daily basis.
Observations shall be documented in the daily reports. The reasons for the erosion should be
investigated and appropriate measures taken to mitigate the problem. The most common reason for
erosion of the embankment slope is expected to be a lower than desired underflow density. In such
case, the density of the underflow should be immediately increased.
4.3.12.8

QA/QC Reporting

QA/QC activities and results should be reported on daily, weekly and monthly basis.
Daily Reports
Daily reports should be prepared by each of the TSF QA/QC Inspectors and the Laboratory Manager
responsible for daily testing. As a minimum, these reports will contain the following information:

The name of the Inspector, date and rows and columns to record activities and events on an
hourly basis.
Description of health, safety and environmental events.
Description of weather conditions.
Description of location where inspections were conducted.
Deposition locations by station for overflow and underflow.
Description of construction activities observed and inspected.
Description of special events observed (i.e. significant dust generation, unplanned discharge of
water, etc.).
Results of inspections and testing.
Digital photographs of relevant issues and activities.

Copies of forms and laboratory test certificates should be submitted during the day. Complete and
signed daily reports will be submitted to the TSF Shift Supervisor for review and filing at the end of
each shift.
Weekly Reports
Weekly Reports shall be prepared by the Shift Supervisors, consolidated into one Weekly Report, and
submitted to the TSF Superintendent on a weekly basis. Weekly reports shall present a summary of
the Daily Reports and tabulated results of tests performed. Laboratory certificates and copies of Daily
Reports shall be included as Appendices to the Weekly Report.
Monthly Report
Monthly Reports shall be prepared by the Tailing Superintendent. These reports will summarize the
QA/QC information collected during the month, presenting the data in plots and tables. This report
should also include a brief analysis of the data and trends. This report shall be submitted to the Plant
Manager and a copy will be sent to the Design Engineer. The Design Engineer will interpret the data
in the report and compare it with the TSF design basis. Results, conclusions and potential alerts will
be drawn from this interpretation and recommendations for improvement will be provided to the
Tailing Superintendent and the Concentrator Manager by the Design Engineer.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.4

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 47

IMPOUNDMENT DEPOSITION PLAN

4.4.1

Objectives

After separation of the sands (underflow) at the cyclone station, the remaining overflow will be
deposited into the impoundment. Occasionally, when the cyclone station is not in operation (e.g. for
maintenance), the whole tailing stream will bypass the cyclone station and will be discharged into the
impoundment via the overflow pipelines. The objectives of the impoundment deposition plan and a
brief summary of the methods to achieve the objectives are as follows:
1. Develop a beach from the embankment towards the reclaim water pond(s), thus keeping the
pond(s) as far from the embankment as possible at all times. The deposition of the overflow and
occasionally whole tailing will take place predominantly from the embankment crest. The number
of deposition points along the crest will gradually increase with the increase of the embankment
crest length. The overflow deposition points along the crest will be spaced at about one per every
100 meters.
2. Preclude development of a clear water pond adjacent to the potentially more permeable limestone
that comprises the left (west) abutment of the TSF. Overflow quantities sufficient to accomplish
this objective will be deposited in the western drainage of the tailing impoundment. With the
exception of the first few months of the operation of the TSF, when the reclaim water pond will
be located against the Starter Dam, the pond(s) will be located within the Central and/or the East
Valley (Figure 4-4-1). No ponding should be allowed within the West Valley subsequent to the
first few months of deposition.
3. Avoid the development of trapped water ponds (i.e., water that would be inaccessible for recovery
by the reclaim water return system) in some of the side valleys on the upstream end of the
impoundment. Overflow from the scalping station (see Section 4.2.4) will be deposited in these
drainages after year one to accomplish this objective.
4. Manage the reclaim pond(s). According to the current reclaim water pond management plan there
will be two ponds for the first 3 to 4 years of operation of the TSF, followed by 1 pond located in
the East Canyon for the remainder of the operations. The number and location of the reclaim
water ponds will be managed by appropriately selecting the location and amount of tailing to be
deposited from each deposition point.
The presented impoundment deposition plan is based on the current understanding of the project.
The implementation of the plan should be carefully monitored and updates to the plan should be
made as required to achieve the above objectives. The deposition plan should be updated by the
Tailing Superintendent and the Design Engineer annually, or more often if considered necessary.
4.4.2

Description

The impoundment deposition plan was developed to address the objectives presented in Section 4.4.1
above. The location of the deposition points and the reclaim water pond during selected years of the
operational life of the TSF are illustrated in Figures 4-4-1 through 4-4-6 and discussed below. The
assumptions made for the development of the deposition plan as depicted in Figures 4-4-1 through
Figure 4-4-6, are as follows:

The elevation of the impounded tailing immediately upstream of the embankment at the end of
the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 10th, 15th year and at the completion of the operations, are as estimated in the
material balance model (see Volume 5 Material Balance Analysis).

A uniform 0.5% beach slope develops from each deposition point.

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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 48

The underwater tailing slope (beneath the reclaim water pond) was assumed to be 0.5%. In reality,
the slope is expected to be somewhat steeper.

Year 1 and Year 2


During the first year of operation, the focus of the deposition plan will be to develop a beach from
the embankment towards the reclaim water ponds and to preclude ponding of water against the
limestone area at the west drainage.
There will be two reclaim water ponds for the first two years of operation one in the Central Valley
and one in the East Valley. During the first few months of operation the water from the Central pond
will be pumped to the East pond over a saddle on the East Ridge. As the ponds move upstream the
Central and East valleys during the second year of operation, the ponds will be connected through an
excavation across the second saddle on the East Ridge (see Figure 4-4-2). Further details on the
operation of the reclaim water system are presented in Operations Manual Area 3800 (Tailing
Handling and Reclaim Water).
By the end of the first year, the pond in the East Valley is expected to reach the largest side drainage
to the East Valley the East Canyon, where the reclaim water pond will be located for the remainder
of the operations. To preclude the development of a large reclaim pond spanning across the East
Valley and East Canyon, deposition from the upstream end of the East Valley (deposition point D1
on Figure 4-4-2) should start towards the end of the second year of the operation.
The estimated extent of the impoundment, the locations of the deposition points and the location of
the reclaim water ponds towards the end of the first and second years of operation are illustrated in
Figure 4-4-1 and Figure 4-4-2, respectively.
Year 3 to Year 10
As the embankment rises and its length increases, the underflow and overflow header lines will be
extended and additional deposition points will be added along the crest (Figure 4-4-3).
In year 3, the excavation across the East Ridge saddle is expected to be mostly covered with tailing
and the connection between the East and Central ponds will be lost. To preclude the development of
an isolated pond in the Central Valley, deposition into the Central Valley from the upstream side of
the impoundment will be required. Deposition from points C1 and C2 is planned to begin in the 3rd
year of operation. The purpose of the C1 and C2 deposition points is to push the water towards the
East Canyon and form one pond only.
Deposition from points B1 and D1 will continue by relocating the line further upstream as the
impoundment rises. As before, the purpose of deposition point B1 will be to preclude the
development of standing water against the limestone area on the left abutment, and the purpose of
deposition point D1 will be to push the water from the East Valley towards the East Canyon.
The estimated extent of the impoundment, the locations of the deposition points and the location of
the reclaim water pond towards the end the fourth and tenth years of operation are illustrated in
Figures 4-4-3 and 4-4-4, respectively.
Year 11 to Year 22
During the period from the 11th year to the final year of operation of the facility, as the embankment
and impoundment rise, the header line will be extended progressively and the remaining deposition
points along the header will come into operation (Figure 4-4-5 and Figure 4-4-6). Deposition from
points B1, C1, C2 and D1 will continue by relocating the line further upstream as the impoundment
rises. Additional deposition points may be required (e.g. D2 and D3) if isolated ponds develop at the
head of some side valleys (Figure 4-4-5 and Figure 4-4-6).
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Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 49

The estimated extent of the impoundment, the locations of the deposition points and the location of
the reclaim water pond towards the end of the 15th year and at the completion of the operations, are
illustrated in Figures 4-4-5 and Figure 4-4-6, respectively.
4.4.3

Deposition Schedule

The objectives of the impoundment deposition plan will be achieved by properly managing the
location of the deposition points and the amount discharged from each point at any one time. Due to
the difficulties in accurately predicting the behavior of the deposited tailing materials, the presented
deposition schedule should be used with caution and modified as considered necessary by the Tailing
Superintendent and the Design Engineer throughout the operating life of the facility.
The impoundment deposition schedule presented in Table 4-4-1 has been developed based on the
descriptions above and the material balance presented in Volume 5 Material Balance Analysis. Table
4-4-1 contains a list of deposition points, time when each point needs to be commissioned, type of
material to be discharged and other relevant information.
TABLE 4-4-1
IMPOUNDMENT DEPOSITION POINTS
Approximate Percentage of Total Tailing Solids
Discharged into the Impoundment (1)
Year

Deposition
Points

Central Station
Overflow/Whole
Tailing (2)
%

A9-A16

80%

B1

N/A

A9-A16

65-70%

20%

Scalping
Station
Overflow (4)
%

N/A

20%

B1
D1
A6-A17

Central
Station
Overflow (3)
%

10-15%
50-70%

A-18

5%

B1

15-20%

3-5
C1

0-5%

C2

0-5%

D1
A3-A17

10-15%
50-63%

A18-A22

15-20%

B1

5-15%

5-10
C1

2-5%

C2

5%

D1

5-10%

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

Comments
The deposition
points should
be in place
prior to the start
of the
operations

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 50


TABLE 4-4-1
IMPOUNDMENT DEPOSITION POINTS
Approximate Percentage of Total Tailing Solids
Discharged into the Impoundment (1)

Year

Deposition
Points

Central Station
Overflow/Whole
Tailing (2)
%

A1-A17

55-60%

A18-A24

25%

B1

5%

10-22

Notes:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)

Central
Station
Overflow (3)
%

Scalping
Station
Overflow (4)
%

C1-C2

5%

D1-D3

5-10%

Comments

The percentages indicated refer to total amount of impounded tailing in dry weight.
Overflow from the cyclone station or whole tailing that is not processed through the cyclone station may be distributed from these points.
Only overflow from the cyclone station may be distributed from these points.
Only overflow from the scalping station is distributed from these points.

The percentages of the total tailing solids to be discharged from each deposition point throughout the
operational life of the impoundment are approximate and are based on proportions of the area of each
drainage from the total impoundment area. The percentages in terms of volume of the tailing required
to fill each of the valleys may differ from the percentages presented in Table 4-4-1. Careful monitoring
of the entire tailing impoundment surface and the location of the reclaim water pond(s) should be
performed on a daily basis and the required quantity to be discharged from each point should be
determined at that time. The information provided in Table 4-4-1 should be used as guidance only.
4.4.4

QA/QC

The objectives of QA/QC of the deposition of tailing material within the impoundment are to
facilitate proper pond location, and provide monitoring of impounded tailing and water levels. The
pond should be maintained at the location delineated on the deposition figures presented in earlier
section and as far away as practical from the left abutment and the embankment. Freeboard between
the crest of the embankment and the impounded tailing material should be maintained at 3 meters or
more. Observation requirements for embankment freeboard are detailed in Section 4.3.12.6. Daily
observations of pond locations should be included in the daily log with an estimate of minimum beach
length.
Pond locations should be formally recorded on a drawing of the impoundment facility on a monthly
basis. The basis of this drawing should be a combination of observations of the pond from various
angles using landmarks to verify the pond extents. The information should be supported by inclusion
of photographs of the impoundment. Further monitoring of the pond and extent of impounded
tailing material is described in Section 6 of this manual.
4.5

SUSTAINING CAPITAL ITEMS

The TSF will be constructed and operated over a period of approximately 22 years. Within these 22
years, the finger and blanket drains, and the double filter blanket drain over the left abutment
limestone will be built in phases. The underflow and overflow header lines will be expanded as the
embankment crest expands over time. Geotechnical instrumentation will be added to the embankment
over time as the embankment rises. The schedule for the planned expansion of the drains, the headers,
the left abutment blanket, the geotechnical monitoring instrumentation, and the planned geotechnical
investigations is discussed in the following sections.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.5.1

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 51

Drain Expansion

A network of finger drains and a blanket drain will be constructed within the footprint of the
embankment. The finger drains will be located within the natural drainages beneath the embankment
and the blanket drain will cover the alluvium at the base of the valley. The seepage flow collected by
the drain system will discharge into a seepage collection sump located immediately downstream of the
ultimate embankment toe. The seepage collection sump and a portion of the drains will be
constructed as a part of initial capital construction (see Volume 10 Drawings, Package 3
Construction of a Seepage Collection System). Details on the methodology for the design of the
Seepage Collection System and the embankment underdrains, which are part of the capital
construction, are presented in Volume 8 - Seepage Collection System Design. The drains to be
constructed as part of capital construction are envisioned to be within the estimated embankment
footprint by the end of the 3rd year of operation. The remaining drains will be constructed in three
subsequent stages (Figure 4-5-1). The configuration and extent of the drains for the three subsequent
stages may need to be adjusted based on observed performance of the initial drains constructed as
part of initial capital construction. Figure 4-5-2 presents typical sections and details of the blanket
drain, and for the 1st and 2nd order finger drains. Detailed designs will be required for each
expansion.
The proposed schedule for drain construction is described below.
Schedule
Construction of the drains, which are part of the initial capital construction, is planned to be
completed by October 2006. Considering the fast rate of rise of the embankment and the high cost for
decommissioning and commissioning of the material processing plant used during capital
construction, it is recommended to continue production of drain material after completion of the
capital construction drains. This will speed up the drain construction process and save the cost for
mobilizing and demobilizing of the material processing plant. Accordingly, it is recommended that
production of drain and filter material required for the drains located within the 5th year embankment
footprint (see Figure 4-5-1) should begin as soon as production of filter and drain materials for capital
construction is completed. The produced material for the blanket drain within the 5th year
embankment footprint will be stockpiled and will be placed after the road to Arequipa is relocated in
about 2009.
The finger drains within the 5th year embankment footprint (A1 to A11) will be constructed in late
2006 as the material is being produced.
The remaining finger drains and blanket drains within the embankment footprint of the 10th year (B1
to B9) will be constructed within the 4th year of operation.
The remaining finger and blanket drains within the ultimate embankment footprint (C1 to C17) will be
constructed within the 9th year of operation.
The proposed drain construction schedule is shown in Figure 11-1.
4.5.2

QA/QC of Sustaining Capital Drain Expansions

The materials used in the construction of the drains should be crushed, processed, and screened, and
should conform with the following gradation requirements:

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 52

Zone 5Filter Material


Sieve No. or Size
:
:
3/8:
#4:
#8:
#16:
#30:
#40:
#50:
#60:
#200:

Zone 6Drain Material


Sieve No. or Size
3:
1 :
1:
:
3/8:
#4:
#8:
#200:

Percent Passing (By Weight)


100
87 100
79 100
59 100
42 82
24 58
8 37
0 26
0 15
0 10
03

Percent Passing (By Weight)


100
90 100
60 91
40 83
14 57
0 28
0 10
03

Zone 6ACoarse Drain Material


Sieve No. or Size
3:
1 :
1:
:
3/8:
#4:
#8:
#200:

Percent Passing (By Weight)


100
60 100
40 80
20 60
0 25
0 15
0 10
03

The gradation of the materials used in the construction of the drains should meet the requirements of
the construction specifications developed for and provided to the contractor for each sustaining
capital construction phase and may vary from those stated above with approval from the Design
Engineer. The Design Engineer will establish detailed specifications and drawings for each sustaining
capital construction phase including requirements for the following:

Gradations of filter and drain materials


Durability characteristics of filter and drain materials
In-place densities and moisture contents
Permeability of placed materials
Provisions to avoid segregation of materials when placed
Provisions to avoid contamination of materials with excess fines

A geotextile will be placed over the constructed drains to avoid contamination of the surface. This
protective geotextile will be removed immediately prior to placement of underflow sands and as the
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 53

embankment footprint extends over the drains. The geotextile removal process and the placement of
the initial layers of underflow material were discussed in Section 4.3.7.
4.5.3

Header Extension

Tailing underflow for embankment construction will be conveyed from the cyclone station via two
pipelines placed on a jacking header (see Section 4.2.5). Tailing overflow or occasionally whole tailing
will be conveyed via two 32 pipelines on another jacking header located close to the upstream edge
of the embankment crest. The configuration of the headers is shown in Figure 4-3-7 (Fluor/PSI
drawing PSP108-C-3830-50T-022, 023 and 025). Details on the jacking header designs and operational
instructions are included in the Operating Manual for Area 3800.
As the embankment is raised, its crest increases in length from about 800 m at the Starter Dam level
(crest elevation 2485 m) to about 2,500 m at its ultimate height (crest elevation 2660 m). To facilitate
an even tailing deposition, both the underflow and the overflow headers will be extended as required.
Table 4-5-1 presents the estimated embankment elevations at the end of each operational year,
approximate embankment length and required extension length of the jacking header line. The average
estimated weekly raise of the header is also shown in Table 4-5-1.

Yr
(end)
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22

TABLE 4-5-1
ESTIMATED JACKING HEADER LINE EXTENSIONS AND RAISE RATES
Approximate
Approximate
Jacking Header
Average Header
Embankment
Embankment
Extension
Raise
Elevation
Length
m
m/week
m
m
2485
800
2491
900
100
0.65(1)
2514
1020
120
0.25
2530
1150
130
0.30
2542
1350
200
0.23
2553
1680
330
0.21
2562
1920
240
0.17
2571
1980
60
0.17
2580
2030
50
0.17
2587
2130
100
0.13
2595
2160
30
0.23
2602
2180
20
0.13
2608
2210
30
0.12
2614
2240
30
0.12
2620
2260
20
0.12
2626
2290
30
0.12
2632
2320
30
0.12
2637
2370
50
0.1
2642
2380
10
0.1
2647
2400
20
0.1
2652
2410
10
0.1
2657
2430
20
0.1
2660
2440
10

Notes:
(1)
Applicable to the last 25 Weeks of the 1st year only (from El. 2475 m to El. 2490 m)

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 54

Experience at similar facilities indicates that the underflow tends to flow by gravity approximately 400
to 600 m along the embankment slope (see Section 4-3-5). The maximum length of the embankment
slope at the ultimate embankment height is about 1100 m. Therefore, it is likely that additional
measures would need to be implemented to distribute the underflow along the entire slope length
after about 5 years of operation. Potential ways to distribute the underflow along the lower ends of the
downstream face of the embankment are:

Provide pipe extensions with tees to take the underflow beyond 400 m to 600 m from the
embankment crest.

Mechanically distribute the deposited underflow from the higher end of the slope to the lower
end (remove the hump).

Install an additional header line at a selected location (mid-length) across the downstream slope.

The gravity flow characteristics of the underflow along the embankment downstream slope should be
monitored and a decision be made regarding the need for additional measures after about 4 to 5 years
of operation, to facilitate the distribution of the underflow down to the toe of the embankment
between Years 5 and 22.
4.5.4

Left Abutment Blanketing

Geology and Potential Issues


The left abutment of the Cerro Verde Tailing Embankment and a portion of the ridge confining the
west side of the TSF are underlain by the Middle Jurassic Socosani Limestone Formation (Figure 3-3).
This unit has been identified as an area of higher permeability compared to the bedrock formations
underlying the remainder of the TSF, and as an area at a higher risk of containing potential preferential
flow pathways. Detailed discussion on the geology and the potential issues associated with this area are
presented in Volume 2 Geological and Geotechnical Site Investigations and Assessments. Based on
the investigations in the area, two potential issues have been identified: 1) possible seepage flow, and
2) possible tailing flow through the potential preferential pathways. An observational approach has
been proposed to address the potential seepage issue. The recommended monitoring and inspections
program is discussed in Section 8.
The concerns with regards to a potential tailing flow are related to the possibility of loose,
unconsolidated overflow tailing materials entering the potential preferential flow system, and if
unimpeded, piping of tailing through the system may occur. There is uncertainty with regards to the
nature of the limestone, the extent and size of the karstic solution channels, and the existence of an
interconnected solution channel systems that would transmit tailing flow. Although the likelihood of
occurrence of a tailing flow is considered low, due to the potentially significant consequences of such
a tailing flow, protective measures will be implemented. These measures are detailed below.
Protective Measures
The protective measures will consist of the following components:

A granular protective blanket placed on the surface of the limestone where impounded tailing
materials will be in contact with the south facing slope of the limestone

A double filter blanket drain over the portion of the abutment/embankment footprint
underlain by the limestone.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 55

Left Abutment Impoundment Protective Blanket


The purpose of the blanket over the limestone within the impoundment is to create a filter layer to
impede the potential flow of tailing materials into the limestone bedrock. The existing haul road from
the mine to the starter dam will be utilized as a starting surface for the construction of the blanket
(Figure 4-5-3 and Figures 4-5-4). The blanket will be constructed in lifts of about 1 m thickness and a
minimum of 8 m width (selected based on constructability). The lifts will be placed against the existing
slope. Mine waste (North Dump 30 or similar) material will be used as a borrow source. The blanket
will be constructed ahead of the placement of the overflow in the west drainage. Based on the
deposition and filling plans, the lowest limestone outcrop may become flooded with tailing at the end
of the first year of operation. Construction of the blanket should be planned to begin 6 months after
the beginning of operations. The blanket will be extended up the slope periodically and will always be
maintained at elevations at least 5 meters above the level of the impounded tailing materials. The
proposed blanket construction schedule and volume estimates are presented in Table 4-5-2 and
further discussed in Section 11.

Yr
1
3
5
7
9
14
17

Table 4-5-2
Left Abutment Limestone Protective Blanket
Estimated
Surface Area
Maximum Blanket
Volume(1)
2
m
Elevation
3
m
18,000
144,000
2524
36,800
294,400
2550
32,000
256,000
2570
33,000
264,000
2590
47,700
381,000
2622
23,000
184,000
2640
29,500
236,000
2660

Comments
3rd yr footprint
5th yr footprint
7th yr footprint
10th yr footprint
15th yr footprint
18th yr footprint
Ultimate

Note:(1) The volume is estimated assuming 8m width of the protective blanket

The ultimate extent of the blanket in plan view is shown in Figure 4-5-3 (hatched area). Figure 4-5-4
shows the configuration of the blanket in selected representative sections.
Left Abutment Double Filter Abutment Blanket Drain
The purpose of the double filter blanket drain within the embankment footprint is to filter tailing
fines that could potentially pipe through limestone karst channels, from plugging the embankment
underdrains and to provide a drain layer to conduct potential seepage flows. Although the probability
of piping of tailing fines in this area is considered remote, due to the magnitude of the potential
consequences, the implementation of this measure is considered necessary. The double filter abutment
drain will consist of a lower layer that will satisfy filter compatibility criteria between the impounded
tailing materials and the drain material (probably cyclone underflow tailing sand), and an upper layer
that will satisfy the filter compatibility criteria between the tailing underflow and the drain material.
Details on the design of the double filter blanket drain on the left abutment will be developed in the
future, sometime prior to the construction.
The double filter blanket drain is planned to be constructed in two phases:
1st phase in year 4 (within the 10 year embankment footprint)
2nd phase in year 9 (within the ultimate embankment footprint)
It is recommended to have the construction phases concurrent with the construction phases of the
finger and blanket drains.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.5.5

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 56

Instrumentation Expansion

The routine instrumentation maintenance will require periodic extension of the signal cables of
existing instrumentation, routine extension of standpipes, and the movement of ADAS equipment
upward along standpipe extensions. In addition, it will be necessary to install additional monitoring
instruments as the embankment raises. The instrumentation plan for the embankment at its ultimate
height is shown on Figure 4-3-19. The extent of the instrumentation including the number and
locations of the equipment may change over time, based on results of the surveillance of the phreatic
surface and pore pressures using previously installed instrumentation or other factors. The Design
Engineer will review the data obtained from the embankment instrumentation and the inspection
records and will make modifications to the current instrumentations plan, as appropriate.
According to the current schedule (Section 11), the installation of the instrumentation would be
performed in phases. The first two instrumentation expansion campaigns will take place within the 2nd
and 5th year of operation of the TSF. Subsequent instrumentation expansion campaigns are scheduled
to coincide with the geotechnical investigations in the 7th, 12th, and 17th year of operations. Depending
on the conditions of the embankment, the results of the monitoring program and the regular
inspections, expansion of the instrumentation system may be required earlier, more often, and/or to a
greater extent than planned. The planned instrument expansions are presented in Table 4-5-3.
Instrumentation and automated data acquisition (ADAS) equipment identifications used in this table
correspond to those used in the figures showing the instrumentation plan.
TABLE 4-5-3
PLANNED INSTRUMENTATION EXPANSION SCHEDULE
Expansion
Campaign
nd

2 year

Instrument or ADAS Equipment Type

Equipment
ID

Location*

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-10

Section D-D

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-11

Section D-D

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-05

Section F-F

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-05

Section F-F

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-12

Section F-F

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-06

Section B-B

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-06

Section B-B

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-13

Section B-B

I/O XPAK-CXB (Cable Extended to CVX-03)

CVXC-02

Section D-D

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-14

Section D-D

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-15

Section D-D

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-07

Section F-F

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-07

Section F-F

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-08

Section F-F

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-08

Section F-F

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 57


TABLE 4-5-3
PLANNED INSTRUMENTATION EXPANSION SCHEDULE

Expansion
Campaign
th

5 year

th

7 year

th

12 year

Instrument or ADAS Equipment Type

Equipment
ID

Location*

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-09

Section B-B

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-16

Section B-B

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-17

Section B-B

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-10

Section G-G

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-18

Section G-G

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-19

Section G-G

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-11

Section G-G

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-09

Section G-G

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-20

Section G-G

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-21

Section F-F

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-22

Section F-F

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-13

Section D-D

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-10

Section D-D

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-12

Section A-A

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-23

Section A-A

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-24

Section A-A

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-14

Section A-A

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-11

Section A-A

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-25

Section D-D

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-26

Section A-A

I/O XPAK-RXB (Radio Extended to CVO-01)

CVX-15

Section B-B

Standpipe Piezometer Instrumented with Vibrating Wire Pressure Transducer

CVS-12

Section B-B

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

CVW-27

Section B-B

Vibrating Wire Piezometer


*For the instruments location see Figure 4-3-19.

CVW-28

Section D-D

th

17 year

4.5.5.1

Details of Instrument and ADAS Installation and Maintenance

Designs for the expansion of the instrumentation system will be needed in advance of the expansion.
It is envisioned that designs will be done in general conformance to the drawings and specifications
included in Package 6A used in capital construction (see Volume 10 - Drawings). Maintenance of the
instruments should conform to the Maintenance Manuals and instructions provided by the suppliers.
4.5.6

Geotechnical Investigations

Geotechnical investigations will be required during the operations of the TSF. The main objectives of
the investigations are:

To assess the geotechnical conditions of the sand embankment for conformance with design
assumptions.
To evaluate the impoundment foundation conditions at the West Saddle (see Figure 3-2).
To identify borrow or quarry materials for the expansion of the drain system.

More details on the proposed investigations are presented below.


MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 58

Tailing Embankment
Geotechnical investigations on the tailing embankment are planned to take place throughout the
operation of the facility. The objectives of these geotechnical investigations are as follows:

Evaluate the in-situ geotechnical properties of the embankment sand.


Verify the geotechnical parameters assumed in the engineering analyses performed during the final
design of the facility.
Check for existence of weaker layers within the embankment.
Confirm the position of the phreatic surface within the embankment.
Re-assess the stability of the embankment.
Re-evaluate the current construction methods.
Evaluate opportunities to modify the embankment configuration (e.g. potentially reduce the crest
width if conditions are sufficiently favorable).

The geotechnical investigations may include drilling test holes and collecting undisturbed and
disturbed samples, Standard Penetration Tests (SPT), cone penetration testing, laboratory testing,
geophysics, and excavation of test pits. A detailed geotechnical investigation program for the first
geotechnical investigation campaign will be prepared by the Design Engineer during the first year of
operation.
According to the current schedule, the first geotechnical investigations will take place within the 2nd
year of operation of the TSF. Subsequent geotechnical investigations are scheduled for the 7th, 12th,
17th and 22nd years of operations. Depending on the conditions of the embankment, the results of the
monitoring program and the regular inspections, geotechnical investigations may be required earlier or
more often than planned.
West Abutment Saddle
The upper left flank of the impoundment area consists of a narrow ridge and a low saddle through
which a small, unnamed fault strikes at a high inclination angle. The narrow configuration of the ridge
and the presence of faulted ground form a basis for concern that late during the operation of the
impoundment, seepage could migrate through the ridge.
Geotechnical investigations to characterize the area of the saddle are scheduled to take place within
the 17th year of operation. At this stage, the elevation of the impoundment should be low enough to
allow access to the area. Depending on the results of the investigations, the Design Engineer may
propose specific construction and seepage control measures that would be required in the saddle area.
Borrow Materials
Geotechnical investigations will be required to select suitable borrow material for production of drain
materials. The investigations may include drilling test holes, excavating test pits, collection of
representative samples, performing laboratory testing, and possibly test blasting. The alluvium material
within the bottom of Quebrada Enlozada, was used for production of the drain materials during the
capital construction, is essentially depleted and a new borrow source (e.g. the Poderosa Pit near Rio
Chili or bedrock quarry) will need to be identified. The investigations are scheduled to take place
within the first year of operation of the TSF. A selection of a borrow source and obtaining the
required permits has to take place early during the start of the operations.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

4.6

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 59

WATER MANAGEMENT

4.6.1

General

TSF water management includes the following main components:

Surface Water (runoff) Management. The dry climate and limited catchment area of the TSF
were the main reasons for the decision not to construct diversion channels around the facility.
The design of the TSF has a provision for storing the runoff generated by the PMP from the
entire impoundment catchment area during the operational life of the facility and after closure.
Therefore, no additional provisions are required during operations other than maintaining the
design freeboard. The runoff from the embankment will be collected at the Seepage Collection
Sump and the water will be used during the operations.

Management of the Reclaim Water Pond. Managing the reclaim water pond at a minimum size
and away from the embankment is required to maintain embankment stability and minimize the
water losses.

Seepage Management. Seepage from the TSF should be minimized for the following reasons: 1)
maintain the TSF in compliance with the zero discharge concept facility, and 2) maximize reuse
of the process water.

Water Balance Model Calibration. A water balance model was developed to provide an
estimate of the potential water losses from the TSF and the required make-up water requirements
for the operations. The water balance model is described in detail in Volume 6 Water Balance
Analysis. The model should be regularly updated with actual data and the make-up water
requirements estimated to facilitate effective water supply planning.

Procedures for water management are described in the following sections.


4.6.2

Reclaim Water Pond

A start-up water pond will be developed within the impoundment prior to the start of the operations
(Section 4.3.3). Start-up water will be required in the beginning of the operations to compensate for
the initial water losses and the expected delay in water recovery from the embankment and from the
impoundment.
Two reclaim water ponds will be operated within the impoundment during the first 2 to 3 years of
operation: one pond in the Central Valley, and one in the East Valley (Figure 4-4-1 and Figure 4-4-2).
Water will be pumped from the Central to the East pond over a small saddle on the East Ridge during
the first 3 to 4 months of operation. Subsequently, the water from the Central pond will be pumped to
the East pond through an excavation in the East Ridge (Figure 4-4-2). The excavation is expected to
be inundated with tailing within the 3rd year of operation. At this time, deposition of tailing overflow
from the scalping station will begin from the upstream ends of the Central Valley of the
impoundment. Deposition of overflow from the scalping station into the upstream reaches of the east
valley will begin within the second year of operation. The purpose of this upstream deposition will be
to push the pond from the Central Valley and from the East Valley towards the East Canyon, where
the pond will be located during the remainder of the operations.
One reclaim water pond located in the East Canyon (see Figures 4-4-3 through 4-4-6) will be operated
after the 3rd year of operation. Variations in this schedule may be expected depending on the amount
of tailing materials produced, impoundment filling procedures and characteristics of the tailing
beaches that are created.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 60

The position of the reclaim water pond relative to the embankment is critical to TSF stability and
overall performance. The pond is expected to be against the Starter dam during the first 3 to 5
months of operation prior to establishing a tailing beach and pushing the pond away from the
embankment. Following this period, and especially when the crest of the Starter Dam has been
reached (towards the end of the 1st year), the pond should be kept as far away from the embankment
as possible. The minimum distance between the pond and the embankment is 300m at that time. As
the impoundment increases in size, the pond should be maintained further from the embankment
crest and the pond size should be limited to approximately 20 hectares.
The size of the reclaim water pond affects a number of TSF components. A large pond will decrease
the rate of consolidation of the impounded tailing materials. A small pond results in a larger area of
the beach, increased drying of the impounded tailing, hence increased density. The higher density
leads to a higher storage capacity of the impoundment, and generally improved stability of the facility.
Some of the effects of a large pond are an increase in the water losses, and more importantly, to a
reduction in the available flood storage capacity of the impoundment. A reduction in the flood storage
capacity leads to an increased risk of embankment overtopping. Considering the requirement to
maintain a small pond, and the depth requirements for the operation of the pumps at the barges, it
was decided by Fluor to excavate a trench in the original ground and create a corridor for the barges.
More details on the configuration of the trench, barges and pumps are provided in FLUOR/PSI
drawings PSP 108-C-3800-10Z-406 and PSP108-C-3840-50Z-050.
Given the importance of maintaining the reclaim water pond in the desired location, as far as possible
from the embankment and at a small size, the following measures should be considered in operating
this aspect of the facility:

Maintain the surface area of the reclaim water pond at 20 hectares or smaller.
Conduct daily inspections of the size, location, and configuration of the reclaim water pond.
Record findings together with the measured water level.

Based on the information obtained, review the location of the deposition points currently in use
and decide if changes are required to alter the pond location and shape. If isolated ponds have
formed in some of the side valleys, consider placing additional deposition points (overflow from
the Scalping Cyclone Station) to displace these isolated ponds.

If the pond approaches the embankment without an increase in the pond size, increase the
amount of tailing discharged from the embankment crest.

If the pond approaches the embankment due to an increase in its surface area, investigate if this is
due to a reduced reclaim water pumping rate or problems at the barges. Some of the reasons
leading to a large pond size could be excess water after a large storm, reduced tonnage at the mill
and associated reduced water demand, reduced depth at the barge due to a flatter underwater
slope or inadequate trenching at the barge.

If the reason for the large pond size is excess water that cannot be handled at the mill, the
measures may include reduction in the make-up water flow rate, finding other water users,
creating an alternative storage pond, or using sprinklers or other measures to increase evaporation.

A large pond size could also be caused by inability of the reclaim water pump system to convey
sufficient flow. The reasons for this lack of sufficient pumping capacity will need to be
investigated. Some of the reasons that may cause lack of reclaim water pumping capacity are
undersized pump capacity, inadequate location of the pump barge, or excess tailing fines into the
pump barge area. Corrective measures would be implemented accordingly. Potential measures
could be placement of an additional pump, deepening the barge trench or construction of a small
berm to restrict the flow of tailing fines into the pond.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 61

The operation of the reclaim water system is not part of this document. Details on the design and
operation of the barges (including the pumps), the excavation of the cut through the East Ridge, the
excavation of a barge trench, the construction of a rockfill dike, power supply, maintenance and
operation of the reclaim water system are provided in Operations Manual for Area 3800.
4.6.3

Seepage Management

Seepage from the TSF will be managed by means of the features described below.
Seepage Collection Sump
Seepage collected by the network of finger drains and blanket drain within the footprint of the
embankment will be conveyed to the seepage collection sump located immediately downstream of the
ultimate embankment footprint (Figure 3-2). Seepage flow will be measured in a weir located
immediately downstream of the ultimate embankment footprint and upstream of the seepage
collection sump (Figure 4-3-17). The seepage collection sump provides a pond from which the
collected seepage and tailing embankment stormwater runoff can be pumped to the cyclone station or
to the reclaim water pond on the tailing impoundment for reuse. The seepage collection sump
includes design components to minimize the risk of seepage from the TSF past the sump and into the
environment and to satisfy the zero discharge concept criteria (Section 3.4.2). Main design
components of the seepage collection sump are:

An excavation through the alluvium across the valley down to fractured bedrock.

A geosynthetic liner on the downstream slope of the sump anchored into a concrete grout cap at
the excavation bottom and side slopes.

A grout curtain at the bottom of the excavation extending through the fractured bedrock into low
permeability bedrock.

Details of the seepage collection sump design can be found in Drawings 29 through 41 from Package
3 and in Volume 8 Seepage Collection System Design (Volume 10 Drawings).
During the operation of the TSF, the seepage collection sump should be regularly inspected (Section
8) and maintained (Section 7). According to the project design criteria (Table 3-7), the seepage
collection sump has been designed to provide storage for the 100-year 24-hour flood, plus operation
flows during a 12-hour power outage and the expected seepage during normal operating conditions.
Power supply, pumping systems and details on the operation of the seepage collection sump are
provided in Operations Manual Area 3800.
Left Abutment Seepage
Due to the relatively higher permeability of the limestone on the left abutment of the TSF, seepage
through this rock may potentially exit downstream of the facility when sufficiently high head builds up
in the impoundment. The identified most likely locations where seepage may appear are the two
drainages along the northern extent of the limestone leading to the Quebrada Tinajones, and the
drainage downstream of the narrow saddle on the left uppermost extreme of the impoundment
(Figure 1-2 in Appendix B). These areas should be carefully monitored during the operations and if
seepage is observed, measures to collect it should be immediately implemented. Potential measures
may include construction of lined sumps in the area of the seeps. Depending on the quantity of the
collected seepage, the water may be evaporated or pumped back for reuse.

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5.0
5.1

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

GENERAL

The TSF is designed to provide storage for the tailing materials in an environmentally acceptable
manner consistent with Peruvian and international environmental standards. Operational personnel
must have a clear understanding of the key environmental issues and compliance criteria associated
with the TSF and environmental monitoring will be performed on a routine basis. Operators are
required to report any instances where environmental protection may be lacking and take corrective
action as appropriate to provide acceptable performance of the facility. These actions comprise the
environmental management program that must be implemented during TSF operations.
A detailed environmental management plan (EMP) that effectively implements the program is
presented in Appendix B. The EMP describes the objectives and scope of environmental
management with respect to the TSF. The EMP refers to and complements the site-wide
Environmental Management System and the site-wide closure plan (MWH, 2006, Closure Plan for the
Unidad de Produccion Cerro Verde). The EMP presents an overview of the monitoring program that
will be implemented at the TSF. Routine field inspections and reporting requirements are also
described so that inspection results are adequately documented and any deficiencies are promptly
corrected. Specific inspection requirements are outlined below.
5.2

SOILS

Soil characterization studies performed at the site concluded that most of the soils in the TSF area are
deficient and cannot support significant agriculture. Furthermore, soils that would be affected by
TSF operations are those soils that would be buried by tailing and this represents the primary impact
of TSF operations on the soils. Another potential effect of the TSF on the soils is soil erosion or
contamination caused by a spill due to an unforeseen pipeline rupture or equipment failure. Because
of their deficient agricultural characteristics, there are no environmental benefits for recovering soils
prior to tailing deposition. Soils monitoring will be performed on an as-needed basis.
5.3

AIR QUALITY

Access roads, the beach area, and embankment face may emit airborne dust because of their material
properties and exposure to local weather, particularly under high wind conditions or when equipment
is working with dry materials. Air quality is a concern because it potentially impacts habitat
immediately adjacent to the facility and potentially the community further afield. The finer (respirable)
dust fraction also represents a human health hazard with respect principally to silica.
This O&M manual describes measures to be taken to reduce dust emissions, including watering of the
TSF embankment, and cyclical deposition of tailing materials. The operator is to use visual inspection
of the work areas, beach area, and the embankment to verify that wind and vehicle activity is not
raising dust. When conditions are dusty the operator is to irrigate the offending area with tailing
deposition streams or process water, as appropriate, or cease movement of machinery (if that is raising
dust) until weather conditions improve.
Appendix B describes environmental monitoring that will be conducted to demonstrate that these
measures are successful. Six air quality monitoring stations are utilized for monitoring air quality in
the TSF area. The monitoring stations include:

Cerro Verde South


Cerro Verde North
TSF
Jacobo Hunter
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PJ Cerro Verde Village


Tiabaya

Details on the air quality sampling and analytical protocols are provided in the EMP (Appendix B).
The locations of the air quality monitoring stations are presented in Figure 1-2 in Appendix B. When
air quality analyses indicate that the air quality standards in Table 3.5 are not met, the operator is to
implement alternative mitigation measures until air quality is again consistently in compliance.
5.4

VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE

The TSF footprint contains very sparse vegetation. The impact on vegetation is related to potential
loss of vegetation as a result of the inundation of the ground surface caused by the gradual deposition
of tailing in the TSF. Another potential effect of the TSF on the vegetation is related to tailing or
process water spillages could occur outside of the TSF due to tailing delivery or return water systems
breakdowns. In addition, high wind conditions could cause dry tailing to be mobilized from the TSF
and deposited on downwind vegetation potentially causing vegetation damage.
Mitigation measures have been implemented in the vicinity of the mine to offset any loss of vegetation
due to normal operation of the TSF. Details of the implemented plant propagation program are
presented in Section 3.6.3 of the ESMP (SMCV, Environmental and Social Management Program,
2005). The vegetation-monitoring program described in the ESMP will be performed. No additional
monitoring is envisioned.
The primary impacts on wildlife from the SMCV Project involve habitat loss and intervention, and
potential injury to animals that enter the area. Mitigation measures involve avoiding close human
contact with the local fauna in the TSF area and implementing a fauna management program. These
measures will include the placement of warning signs, safe vehicle driving, implementation of
dissuasive measures (i.e., fencing or crossing guards, etc.), and wildlife rescue. Specific mitigation
measures have been developed for guanaco management that focus on minimizing direct contact with
the TSF systems. Additional measures include TSF operator training in guanaco rescue in cases where
guanaco become stranded in the TSF. TSF personnel will chase guanacos away from the TSF, as
necessary. Future studies designed to propagate the guanaco species will be conducted. SMCV will
continue to distribute water to the watering containers used by guanaco.
The fauna monitoring procedures described in the ESMP will be followed. The monitoring will be
performed using the identified in the ESMP (Section 3.7.3) viewpoints located south of the mine.
The TSF operator will note in the daily diary any tracks, encounters, injury or takes (kills) and bring
these to the attention of the environmental department. In the event that these incidents are more
than rare, the operator will implement contingency measures to control access of wildlife to the site.
5.5

WATER QUALITY

The zero discharge concept has been adopted for the TSF. Seepage from the TSF is therefore to be
contained on SMCV property to the extent practical. Embankment seepage exiting the facility is
intended to be captured at the seepage collection sump located downstream of the ultimate
embankment toe and used for dilution water at the cyclone station or recycled for reuse in the
concentrator plant. The quality of this water is to be monitored to verify that the chemistry is as
predicted. However, this monitoring is not regarded as environmental monitoring, rather the
monitoring is required for process control purposes.
There are no surface water monitoring stations that will require routine environmental monitoring.
However, surface water monitoring stations could be added in the future if a specific data requirement
has been identified. If this becomes the case, then this Operations Manual and supporting Appendix
B can be updated at the appropriate time and SMCV personnel will be informed of the monitoring
program changes in daily operations meetings or annual employee training.
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Five groundwater monitoring wells (MW-01, MW-02, MW-03, MW-04, and MW-05) are located
immediately downstream of the seepage collection pond and three additional groundwater monitoring
wells are located downstream in the Quebrada Enlozada (MAS-25, MAS-26, and MAS-31). Two
monitoring wells are located downgradient of the TSF in the Quebrada Tinajones (MAS-27 and MAS30). Two to four future monitoring wells may be installed downgradient of the TSF in the Quebrada
Tinajones to monitor potential effects of the TSF at the potentially karstic limestone contact. There
are currently no groundwater monitoring wells in the La Quebradita. However, two future
monitoring wells may be installed in the quebrada to monitor baseline groundwater conditions.
The watersheds and groundwater monitoring wells are described in Appendix B.
Samples will be collected monthly from each of the groundwater monitoring wells in accordance with
the sampling and analysis protocols in Appendix B, Table 1. If water is not present in any of the
wells, the lack of water will be recorded. In the Quebrada Enlozada, groundwater downgradient of
the Seepage Collection Sump must meet the water quality criteria presented in Table 3-4. If the
required water quality is not met, the environmental staff and the Tailing Superintendent and senior
SMCV managers will be informed. Collectively, SMCV will design and implement a contingency
measure to address the situation. This may include activating the well pumps that will already be in
place in four of the five monitoring wells located downgradient of the Seepage Collection Sump.
5.6

RECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION

As the embankment of the TSF is constructed of cycloned sand using the centerline construction
method, there is no opportunity for progressive reclamation or revegetation. The closure plan is for
placement of an erosion resistant rock cover from a benign source once embankment construction is
complete. This is addressed in the site-wide closure plan (MWH, 2006, Closure Plan for the Unidad
de Produccion Cerro Verde).
5.7

DOCUMENTATION

The environmental staff will record air and water quality data as described in Appendix B. The Tailing
Superintendent will receive the results and should note in daily reports that the information has been
reviewed and that the TSF is in compliance. When a non-compliance has been identified, the Tailing
Superintendent is required to note measures being implemented to achieve compliance with the target
performance criteria.
The daily report should also note:

Incidence of blowing dust and what was done to mitigate it


Encounters with wild or domestic animals on the property
Seeps or standing water encountered beyond the limits of the TSF
Spills or containment problems to be brought to the attention of the environmental department
Sampling events

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6.0
6.1

SAFETY AND SECURITY

GENERAL

Safety of the workers and the public is of prime concern to SMCV. Correct operation of the TSF is
important for the protection of public safety. For this reason, all elements of construction and
operation at the TSF will be under the management and supervision of the Tailing Superintendent at
all times. Only trained personnel will conduct the work. Authorized personnel will accompany visitors
or maintenance personnel not usually working in the area.
6.2

WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY

The tailing facility will be operated under the requirements of the SMCV Health & Safety program. All
tailing department employees will be periodically updated regarding the requirements and expectations
of the program. When department meetings are conducted for the tailing crew, the Tailing
Superintendent will provide constructive reminders about the importance of following the program
and SMCVs commitment to provide a safe working environment. In particular, workers are to note
the procedures for working adjacent to open water, on mobile equipment, on stacked activities (that is
when one worker is potentially uphill or above another) and the lock-out tag-out procedures.
SMCV believes that the tailing materials are not toxic, and will analyze them periodically to validate
this. However, SMCV worker health and safety guidelines apply with respect to the use of respirators
to protect against silicosis. The process water is caustic and workers must wear protective footwear
(rubber boots) and rubber gloves when their work requires them to be in contact with the moist
tailing materials or process water.
Workplace Hazards
A number of workplace hazards are inherent in the operation and maintenance of the TSF. These
workplace hazards are associated with tailing delivery, water reclaim, TSF embankment, TSF surface,
and seepage collection areas.
The tailing delivery system operations include a tailing department shop, heavy maintenance
equipment, utility vehicles, delivery pipeline, cyclone station, and tailing distribution system.
Workplace hazards that are inherent in the operation of these systems include pinch points, unstable
ground, water hazards, pressurized pipelines, rotating machinery, electrical supply, overhead assembly,
crane use, and confined spaces.
Pinch points involve the handling of large equipment components such as pipeline sections, reclaim
barge and pumps, cyclone station components, and spigot system components. The pinch points
become most hazardous during maintenance, modification, relocation and expansion of these
components.
Unstable ground may be encountered on the TSF embankment and impoundment surface. The
instability is caused by freshly deposited coarse tailing on the embankment or fine/coarse tailing that is
deposited in the impoundment. Freshly deposited tailing cannot support the weight of a utility vehicle
or personnel on foot.
Water hazard refers to the Reclaim Water pond and Seepage Collection Sump. Significant water depths
can exist in the reclaim water pond and Seepage Collection Sump and the hazard is most significant
when personnel are performing work adjacent to or over the ponds (while servicing the pumps, for
example) or are inspecting the water ponds by watercraft.

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Pressurized pipelines include the tailing delivery/distribution pipelines and reclaim water pipelines. In
these cases, a pipeline breach during maintenance activities would result in rapidly escaping fluids and
the SMCV maintenance crew would be at risk of personal injury. In addition, undetected release of
flows in unplanned locations could cause hazardous conditions and instability of slopes and/or
embankments.
Rotating machinery is found at the reclaim water pumps located on the barge, at the seepage collection
sump, and at the cyclone station/tailing pumping station. The pumps at the reclaim water pond and
at the seepage collection sump consist of high-capacity vertical turbine pumps. The exposed pump
shaft will be rotating at a speed of about 1,500 revolutions per minute. Other rotating machinery
would include hand-held power tools that are used during both operations and maintenance.
High-voltage (1,440 VAC primary voltages and 480 VAC secondary voltages) electrical hazards exist
near pumping facilities including the reclaim barge and the seepage collection sump. The electrical
hazard is compounded by the close proximity of grounding sources such as metal decking, structural
steel, and water.
Several confined spaces exist within the TSF facilities. Confined spaces are defined as tanks, sumps,
conduits, etc. where access and egress is limited. These include the tailing delivery and reclaim
pipelines, tailing delivery system vaults, and seepage collection sump. The hazard that is inherent in
confined space situations includes poor air quality.
Safe Operating Procedures (SOPs)
During startup, SMCV is to develop specific SOPs for each of the tasks to be routinely conducted.
The SOPs are to be appended to this Operations manual and the SMCV Health and Safety Manual.
At a minimum, the SOPs will address: Confined Space Entry, Hot Work, Lock out-Tag out, Work on
the barge-mounted pumps, Maintenance of the cyclones, Relocating the cyclone station, Shut down,
Start-up, Relocation and raising of tailing distribution pipelines, Draining and inspection of pipes and
vessels, Driving at the site, Operation of heavy equipment while placing and compacting embankment
fill, night shift work, overhead assembly, crane use, etc.
6.3

SITE SECURITY

The performance of the TSF depends upon consistent application of rigorous procedures to monitor
and control the quality of the tailing underflow material produced for embankment fill, and for the
maintenance of equipment used to place, and compact the tailing materials, pump and convey fresh
water, and process water. While the scale of the operation will attract the interest of workers from
other areas and the public, only operators trained to safely operate the facility are authorized to be
present at the site.
Restricted Access
The TSF facilities are not secured from unauthorized access. As a result the following pieces of
equipment should be gated or otherwise managed to restrict access:

The walkway to the reclaim barge, with water and electrical hazards
The entry stairway to the cyclone station with elevated equipment at high pressure
The seepage collection pond pump station with electrical and water hazards
The secondary electrical power supplies that power the barge and the seepage collection sump
with electrical hazards

Access to these components is restricted both for safety and security reasons. The SMCV Security
Department will conduct random patrols of the TSF during each day of operations including both
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daylight and nighttime hours. The patrols will also be conducted during periods of temporary
suspensions of operations. If the security department observes any security concerns (unlocked or
damaged gates and locks, unauthorized visitors, or damaged equipment), the department will notify
the Tailing Superintendent. The Tailing Superintendent will verify the status of the TSF facilities and
will give instructions for appropriate follow-up actions.
Communications
Because elements of the work are hazardous and the TSF site is somewhat remote from the rest of the
operations, the Tailing Superintendent is responsible for facilitating the communication between the
TSF labor force and the control room at all times. As for confined space work, work adjacent to open
water is not to be conducted alone and without prior authorization from the control room. The
Seepage Collection Sump and the Reclaim Water Pond are examples of open water. The Tailing
Impoundment surface is also considered in this category due to the soft nature of the deposited
tailing.
Any breaches of the security measures are to be brought to the attention of the Tailing
Superintendent, Security Department, and the Health and Safety department immediately.
6.4

EMPLOYEE TRAINING

Each member of the Tailing Department will receive formal TSF operations training and at least once
per year and upon starting a new assignment. The training will be planned and conducted by the
Tailing Superintendent or his designee. Informal crew meetings and briefings will be conducted daily
to discuss specific operations issues.
The annual and new employee training will instruct the tailing technicians how to operate the tailing
delivery system including equipment operations and tailing deposition strategy. The training will also
describe how the cyclone station is to be operated and how construction of the embankment will be
conducted to satisfy design requirements. Operation of the reclaim barge and the seepage collection
pond and pumps, monitoring of TSF instrumentation as well as piezometer monitoring training will
also be included. The Preventive Maintenance Program for these systems will be covered in detail.
This TSF-specific training will consist of a combination of video presentations, verbal discussions,
review of this Operations Manual and demonstrations in the field. Field training and facility tours will
be conducted to provide hands-on review of operating procedures. The training will take
approximately 8 hours to complete.
Training in workplace safety, hazard recognition, accident prevention, and the proper use of Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided by the Safety Department. Environmental Monitoring
training will also be provided by the Environmental Superintendent.
Regarding the proper use of PPE, personnel who use PPE while performing a job function will be
trained to recognize the limitations of the equipment and to properly select, fit, use, inspect, maintain,
and store the PPE. Such PPE training will occur and be documented before the user enters the TSF
area where the use of the PPE may be required.
6.5

DOCUMENTATION

Safety and security records are kept by the Safety Department. All incidents are to be recorded by the
Tailing Superintendent on the daily report as well.

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7.0

MAINTENANCE

The objective of the maintenance program for the TSF is to provide protocols and processes to
facilitate maintenance of the individual components of the facilities in accordance with sound
operating practices, company standards, performance criteria, and legislative requirements. Detailed
maintenance plans tailored to the unique characteristics of the facility and the site conditions should
be prepared.
Presented below are examples of routine and event-driven maintenance requirements. The presented
lists cover some of the main items and are not intended to cover all maintenance requirements.
Also presented below is a maintenance documentation system that the Tailing Department should
implement. Following initial TSF operations, additional maintenance data requirements may be
identified or revisions to specific existing requirements may be needed. The documentation system
will be updated by the Tailing Superintendent in collaboration with senior SMCV managers, if
necessary, to reflect the new requirements.
7.1

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

The routine maintenance includes scheduled maintenance for the construction equipment as per the
manufacturers recommendations, road maintenance, maintenance of the tailing delivery and reclaim
water pipelines, seepage collection sump, gates, fences, signs, lighting systems, dust control irrigation
systems, and protective equipment. It is anticipated that routine maintenance on the dozers and
compactor used to spread and compact underflow materials on the TSF embankment will be
significant. In particular, replacement of under carriages for the dozers should be planned and spare
parts for this and other parts recommended by the manufacturers should be maintained in sufficient
supply at the Cerro Verde Mine Site. Maintenance plans for the tailing and water pipelines, jacking
header, pumping systems, electrical supply, roads, and cyclone station are provided in the appropriate
vendor manuals.
There is no routine maintenance for the embankment of the TSF or the liner, embankment and
spillway of the Seepage Collection Sump, the drains, or monitoring instrumentation.
The Tailing Superintendent will identify persons responsible for the maintenance of the various
components of the TSF. All routine maintenance will be documented and reported to the Tailing
Superintendent.
7.2

EVENT- DRIVEN MAINTENANCE

Some components not requiring routine maintenance could require event-driven maintenance. For
example, precipitation, wind, or leaking embankment drains. An adverse reduction in the percent
solids of the underflow can cause erosion on the downstream face of the dam. The Tailing
Superintendent should determine when maintenance is required based on the routine inspections and
monitoring discussed in Section 8 Surveillance. The Engineering Department will provide field
engineering support, construction equipment, and construction management for the repair of major
damage. Erosion repair should be documented in the Daily Operations Reports, Weekly Reports, and
Monthly Operational Reports.
Other examples of situations requiring event-driven maintenance are damage to the seepage collection
sump liner, replacement of ropes and sandbags on the upstream face of the seepage collection sump,
reclaim barge pump failure, blocked or restricted tailing delivery line(s), spigot or leadoff, cyclone
system blockage, or inoperative monitoring instrument.
All event-driven maintenance should be documented and reported to the Tailing Superintendent.
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DOCUMENTATION

Each routine or event-driven maintenance event should be recorded in a maintenance record for the
particular TSF component. The maintenance record should reflect the condition of the component
prior to the maintenance, the maintenance action taken, the maintenance standard met, a
recommendation for follow-up action, date, time and name of the person performing the
maintenance. The record may include photos, videos, memorandums, reports, communication records
and other relevant information.
All maintenance activities described above will be documented and kept on file within categories as
listed below in Table 7-1.
TABLE 7-1
MAINTENANCE PROGRAM FILING SYSTEM
Equipment Maintenance Logs

Photographs and Videos

Work History

Spares, Materials, Tools, and Equipment Inventories

Equipment Breakdown and Reliability Analysis

Critical Spares List Maintenance Schedules

Quality Control Records

Change Orders

Daily Diary Entries

Memorandums

Communications and Activity Records

Reports

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8.0
8.1

FACILITY SURVEILLANCE

GENERAL

Surveillance includes inspection and monitoring of the facility operation, structural integrity and
safety. It consists of both qualitative and quantitative comparisons of actual facility performance to
expected or planned performance. Regular review of surveillance information can provide an early
indication of performance trends that warrant further evaluation and/or action.
All personnel working at the TSF should be involved in surveillance as a routine part of daily
activities. They should maintain visual awareness of the facility and have knowledge of warning factors
and procedures to follow in the event that a deviation from the planned facility performance is
observed.
Facility monitoring guidelines from the following two publications were used in the preparation of this
surveillance plan:

A Guide to the Management of Tailings Facilities, prepared by The Mining Association of


Canada, September 1998.

Dam Safety Guidelines, prepared by the Canadian Dam Association, January 1999.

The purpose of this TSF Operations Manual is to show how environmental and operational
surveillance and inspections are to be conducted. The reader will note that this Operations Manual is
self-contained regarding both types of monitoring. All of the Operational Monitoring procedures are
presented in the main body of this document. Environmental monitoring procedures are discussed in
Section 5 and in the Environmental Monitoring Plan included as Appendix B to this document. This
was done to better distinguish between the environmental requirements (environmental protection)
and the operational requirements (system integrity) discussed in Section 4.
The following sections provide a description of the proposed monitoring and inspections that will be
a responsibility of the operator.
8.2

MONITORING EQUIPMENT

TSF instrumentation includes piezometers, survey monuments, flow meters, staff gauges, and
accellerometers. The instruments will be installed in stages as the embankment is constructed. The
first stage of the instrumentation will be installed during the capital construction phase (see Package
6A Geotechnical Instrumentation). The plan for installation of instrumentation throughout the
operation of the TSF is discussed in Section 4.3.10.
Information and data obtained from this system will be reviewed and compared with design
assumptions. Periodic observation and documentation of conditions that develop will also be
accomplished. This observational method will help in recognizing conditions that vary from those
assumed for the design in a timely manner. Modifications to construction and operation can then be
made to address these conditions.
Survey monuments will be established by the SMCV surveyors to facilitate topographic survey of the
TSF. The locations of these monuments will be established based on the limitations of the equipment
to be used, and are not prescribed here. A brief description of the other monitoring instrumentation
is given in the sections below.

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Piezometers

Three study sections normal to the tailing embankment alignment have been established, with
piezometers installed in the alluvium foundation, the blanket drain, and the Starter Dam as illustrated
in Figures 4-3-16 and 4-3-17. These instruments will monitor pore pressure and phreatic surface
development in the embankment and its foundation. The information obtained will be used in
assessing the stability of the embankment and the performance of the drain system. Additional
instruments will be installed as the embankment is raised. The proposed instrumentation is listed in
Table 4-5-3 and illustrated in Figures 4-3-18 and 4-3-19.
The vibrating wire piezometers are tied into an Automated Data Acquisition System (ADAS) network
connected through radio links and cable links to a central remote terminal unit (RTU) on the tailing
distribution header. Data can be read directly at the RTU, which also transmits readings to the site
SCADA system through a radio link to the cyclone station. Signal cable is laid in trenches extending to
the radio i/o points where required. Some of the piezometer sensors are installed in open standpipes
that allow confirmatory sounding with a water level indicator and allow different instrumentation to
be lowered into the embankment and foundation, if needed. The standpipe casings support the radios
and i/o assemblies of the ADAS system. Provision should be made for extending the instruments
casing, extension of the signal cables and raising the ADAS equipment as the embankment raises.
Technical specifications and installation details are presented in Package 6A, and illustrated in
drawings included in Volume 10. As-built and calibration information is to be recorded in Table C3-1
in Appendix C3. The table is to be updated whenever new instruments are added, or instruments are
replaced.
The piezometers are installed at strategic locations to monitor the water level inside the embankment
and the drains. The water levels will be monitored on site and reported to the Engineer of Record
periodically as discussed in Section 9.
8.2.2

Staff Gauges

Staff gauges will be installed within the impoundment to monitor the elevation and rate of rise of the
tailing surface to aid the operator in pond management. These gauges will consist of a vertical pole
about 5 m in height founded in the natural ground near the perimeter of the impoundment. The staff
gauges will be graduated to allow for reading of the elevation of the tailing surface. When a staff
gauge is inundated (buried) it is to be replaced with a new gauge installed on native ground adjacent to
the impounded tailing. Approximately 6 to 8 gauges will be operated around the perimeter of the
impoundment.
Staff gauges may also be used to monitor freeboard as discussed in Section 4.3.12.6. Those gauges will
be placed on the tailing beach. Monitoring of freeboard will begin once the beach elevation
approaches the elevation of the Starter Dam.
8.2.3

Seepage Monitoring Wells

The five seepage monitoring wells (MW-01 to MW-05) located immediately downstream of the
seepage collection sump are intended to monitor groundwater quality and provide means of early
detection of seepage past the grout curtain. In the event that seepage is detected in these wells, pumps
will be activated to extract impacted water and return it to the seepage collection sump. The location
of the wells is shown on Figure 2 in Appendix B. Water quality in these wells is to be monitored
monthly to demonstrate that the seepage cutoff is functioning as intended. The operator is to check
the pH, Conductivity, and Sulfate in the field. If these are elevated above the baseline established at
startup, the environmental department is to be informed and the pump-back system activated.
Construction details and specifications are part of Package 6B. The drawings are included in Volume
10.
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Environmental Monitoring wells have previously been installed in the Quebrada Enlozada and
Quebrada Tinajones to provide baseline data and to monitor the water quality and the ground water
levels in the valleys on an ongoing basis. Figure 2 from the Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
in Appendix B shows the locations of the environmental monitoring wells. The EMP provides
detailed information on the environmental monitoring procedures, frequency and reporting and these
are not discussed further in this operating manual.
8.2.4

Accelerometers

Two accelerometers are planned to be installed: one on the right abutment at a location to be selected
in the field, and one on bedrock adjacent to the spillway of the seepage collection sump. The purpose
of the accelerometers is to record strong ground motions in bedrock near the final toe and crest of the
embankment. These units have internal memory, from which local acceleration data will be retrieved
after each seismic event. For reference, a copy of the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale is included in
Appendix C3 (Table C3-2).
8.2.5

Flow Meter

A continuous flow-measuring weir is installed immediately upstream of the seepage collection sump as
shown on Figure 4-3-16. Construction details of the V-notch weir are provided in Package 6A. The
weir is housed in a concrete flume where the water level is measured by a pressure transducer
submerged upstream of the weir and recorded in the SCADA system. The flow can also be read at the
RTU. In the event that the pressure transducer fails, the operator will measure the depth of flow
upstream of the weir directly and estimate the flow based on Table 8-1 below:
TABLE 8-1
SEEPAGE FLOW RATES AT VNOTCH WEIR
Measured Depth (cm) (1)
Flow depth (cm)

(2)

70

80

90

92

94

96

98

20

30

40

42

44

46

48

50

Q (m3/hr)

93

255

522

590

662

740

823

911

Q (l/s)

26

71

145

164

184

205

229

253

(1) From bottom of weir pool to water surface upstream of weir


(2) Depth above invert of weir

8.3

100

MONITORING FREQUENCY

Table 8-2 presents a summary of the monitoring frequency for the various instruments.

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TABLE 8-2
MONITORING INSTRUMENTS
Instrument

Number of
Instruments (1)

Monitoring
Frequency

Vibrating Wire Piezometer

13

Weekly (3)

Stand-pipe Piezometer

Monthly

Accelerometer

(4)

Weir Pressure Transducer

Continuous

Staff gauges
Seepage Monitoring Wells (2)
Tailing and reclaim water instruments
(slurry density, tailing cyclone split and
volume, water recovery )

Event Triggered

6 to 8

Weekly

Monthly

Various (5)

Responsible Person

Continuous(5)

Notes:
(1) Number of instruments at the beginning of the operation of the TSF. More will be added as embankment is raised.
(2) Wells immediately downstream of the seepage collection sump only. Environmental monitoring wells are not included.
(3) ADAS system will record levels each approximately 8 hours. Instruments can be read continuously and ADAS can read and record data at a higher or lower
frequency (for example after an unplanned incident or during critical activities), as determined by the Engineer.
(4)

Collect data from accelerometers after seismic events with MMI IV or greater, for review by Engineer. The accelerometers are not tied into the SCADA system
and must be read manually.

(5)

Monitoring of tailing and water monitoring systems is described in Area 3800.

Monitoring documentation and reporting procedures are discussed in Section 9. In addition to the
standard monitoring frequency, the Tailing Superintendent will request piezometer readings be taken
as soon as practical after any sort of significant unplanned event such as a seismic event, storm event,
appearance of cracks or seepage. For details on emergency procedures see Section 10.
8.4

INSPECTIONS

The purpose of conducting field inspections is to observe system characteristics and visually detect
system malfunctions. Table 8-3 below summarizes the inspection program including regular (routine,
intermediate, and comprehensive) inspections and inspections after extreme natural events (major
storms, earthquakes, or landslides, etc.).

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TABLE 8-3
TSF INSPECTION PROGRAM
Inspection Type
Daily
Routine (instrumentation) by Operating Staff
Routine (visual) by Operating Staff
Routine (visual) by TSF Superintendent
Intermediate (visual and data review)
Comprehensive (visual, data, and engineering review)
Post-Extreme Event

Weekly

Frequency
Monthly

X*
X
X

Semiannual

AsNeeded

X**
X
X

* Monitoring frequencies are variable, see Table 8-2.


** To be reduced to semi-annual after Year 3 of operations, if the TSFs operational performance is acceptable.

8.4.1

Regular Inspections

Regular inspections of the TSF should include routine, intermediate, and comprehensive inspections.
The routine inspection should be made as part of the daily and weekly responsibilities of the Tailing
Superintendent and should be performed to cover the items described below in Routine Inspections.
Intermediate and comprehensive inspections of the TSF are also required as part of this operations
manual. The Intermediate Inspections, discussed below, are semi-annual reviews of the TSF performance
and condition. The Comprehensive Inspections section below describes a complete review of the TSF
performance, conditions and safety by the design engineer and other experts. The requirements of
and frequency of comprehensive inspections are described under Comprehensive Inspections.
8.4.1.1

Routine Daily Inspections - Instrumentation

Inspection of facility instrumentation should be performed on a daily basis so that the entire
instrumentation package is checked for visual indications of improper operation or the development
of unplanned conditions. The personnel responsible for the instrumentation surveillance activities
should be trained in identifying potential or developing problems through visual inspections. At a
minimum the routine inspection should include the following:

Vibrating Wire Piezometers are delivering reasonable readings, wires are not damaged.

Stand-pipe Piezometers have not been damaged, data transmitters are intact and not buried,
batteries are charged.

Accelerometers are intact and power supply is adequate.

Flow-Measuring Weir Transducer is delivering reasonable reading, and the weir is not obstructed.

The inspection results will be presented in the Daily Operations Report. A form template (C2-1) is
included in Appendix C2.
8.4.1.2

Routine Daily Inspections - Visual

Routine inspections of the facility should be performed on a daily basis by operating staff and on a
weekly basis by the Tailing Superintendent. These inspections should focus on embankment
construction activities, pond location and embankment performance. The personnel responsible for
the visual surveillance activities should be trained in identifying potential or developing problems
through visual inspections. At a minimum the routine inspection should include the following:
1. Description of weather conditions including temperature, precipitation, wind direction, and wind
speed.
The data should be quickly accessed when operational problems due to weather are
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observed. This monitoring will be conducted using the South Meteorological Station. The station
is operated by the Environmental Department and the Tailing Department will have real-time
access to the weather data as it is being collected.
2. A review of the entire TSF embankment for:

Cracks
Wind scour
Sloughs
Settlement,
Sinkholes
Sandboils
Seeps
Erosion
Other unusual conditions based on the operators experience

3. A visual survey of the impoundment including:

Adequate freeboard from the crest to maximum impounded tailing level


Clarity of water in the reclaim pond
Reclaim pond level and distance from embankment crest
Pond perimeter wildlife activity, safety hazards
Beach perimeter

4. A visual survey of the condition of the seepage collection sump and flow measurement weir. The
general condition of the HDPE liner on the downstream face of the sump should be noted. Any
damage, theft, blockage, or excessive wear on the seepage measurement weir and appurtenant
facilities (ADAS and instrumentation) should also be recorded.
5. Review ADAS system signals for proper operation and storage of data
6. Monitoring data for high phreatic levels, unusual seepage flow amounts, or other nonconforming
conditions
Any unusual or nonconforming conditions should be recorded. Notifications should be made for any
observation that requires maintenance activities to reestablish proper operating conditions, limit
damage, limit excessive wear, or correct potential noncompliance with the EMP. Documentation
requirements for the TSF inspections are detailed in Section 9, these include the completion of a TSF
routine inspection checklists.
Unusual or non-conforming conditions requiring immediate implementation of emergency response
protocols include, but may not be limited to:

Slide on the downstream slope of the embankment


Slide on the upstream slope of the embankment
Loss of freeboard
Excessive seepage
Excessive erosion
Excessive embankment settlement
High phreatic surface in embankment
Embankment cracking
Sinkhole development
New seep, spring, sandboil
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The inspection results will be reported using the Routine Inspection Report (forms C2-1 and C2-2)
included in Appendix C2. Emergency response procedures are addressed in Section 10.0.
8.4.1.3

Comprehensive Inspections

The comprehensive inspections of the TSF are a more formal review of the condition of the TSF by a
representative of the Engineer of Record and SMCV managers. These inspections will be performed
monthly for approximately the first three years of operation while the Engineer has a representative
on-site. The frequency of these inspections may be reduced to semi-annual or annual after the first
three years of operation or as approved by SMCV and following the recommendations of SMCVs
External Technical Review Board. The comprehensive inspection will be performed by an inspection
team with representatives of the Engineer of Record, operations staff, and owners representative, and
will include:

Review of TSF performance versus design

Review documentation of construction QC/QA activities and embankment gradation and density
test results

Review data from monitoring

Detailed field inspection of all TSF facilities (may be limited to fewer review team members and
operational staff)

Review of survey data (beach profile, pond location, embankment profile)

Review embankment construction progress and impoundment filling rates

Review water balance data

Inspect condition of instrumentation installations for remaining battery charge (more than one
month), movement of instrument relative to datum (pressure transducers in standpipes and at
flow measurement weir), and damage

The inspection results will be reported using the Comprehensive Inspection Report form (Form C2-3)
included in Appendix C2.
8.4.1.4

Intermediate Inspections

The intermediate inspections should precede detailed design of sustaining capital expansions,
modifications to the design or other issues. The inspection should focus on the identified issue. The
purpose and scope of the inspection should be described in a report template generated by the design
engineer prior to the inspection. The scoping memo should take into account the results of previous
inspections and note operational concerns that may require the attention of the inspection team. At a
minimum the comprehensive inspection should include:

Review team including representatives of operators, owner, design engineer, external review
board, and specialty experts as needs are identified.

Review items critical to detail design of the next sustaining capital expansion phase.

Review of TSF performance.


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Establish the condition of the seepage measurement weir, instrumentation installations, and
ADAS system equipment.

Review of cyclone underflow quality and quantity.

Review of cyclone operating time and material balance.

Review of embankment density test results.

Review of actual water balance, including flow rates to the seepage collection sump.

Review the performance and condition of the seepage collection system. Primarily this would
include of review of piezometric data, and inspection of the seepage collection sump, the sump
embankment, liner, and spillway.

8.4.2
8.4.2.1

Inspection after Extreme Events


Earthquake

Following a significant earthquake, the TSF should be inspected by the operator and Engineer for any
indications of damage or instability. A significant earthquake is defined, for purposes of inspection, as
V (five) or greater on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (Table C3-2 in Appendix C3). The
inspection should include the following:

Embankment inspection: cracks, sloughs, seeps


Header line inspection
Collect data from accelerometers (per unit instruction manual)
Review of monitoring results (piezometers, accelerometers,)
Seepage collection system flows, sump structural integrity
Survey of the embankment profiles and beach elevations

Extreme event results will be reported using the Extreme Event Report described in Section 9.2 and
included in Appendix C2.
8.4.2.2

Flood

Following a flood or precipitation event causing significant run-off, the TSF should be inspected by
the operator and the Engineer for indications of damage or instability. The inspection should include
at a minimum:

Embankment inspection: erosion, seeps, sloughs

Review of erosion adjacent to structures or at the seepage collection sump spillway

Inspection of seepage measurement weir and seepage collection sump for sediment accumulation,
and liner or structure damage

Deposition lines for movement or damage due to inundation

Review of erosion or sedimentation of the channel downstream of the seepage collection sump

All findings should be immediately reported verbally and in writing to the design engineer of record.
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Landslide

Following a landslide, the inspection of the TSF by the Engineer and operator should include:

Embankment inspection: movement, sloughs, excessive settlement


Impoundment inspection: displacement of tailing material, creation of potential release pathway
Review structure, instrumentation, and ADAS equipment for damage from debris
Inspection of seepage measurement weir and seepage collection sump for accumulation of slide
material
Deposition lines for movement or damage due to debris
Seepage collection sump spillway for blockage
Header line inspection

All findings should be immediately reported verbally and in writing to the design engineer of record.

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9.0

DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING

All inspection reports and monitoring data must be archived in an orderly manner so that they can be
retrieved and reviewed at any time. This section presents the archiving system and formats for
retrieval of data.
Environmental data is to be archived in existing SMCV environmental archive from which SMCV
extracts reports for submittal to the regulators. The various field forms used for recording the
environmental monitoring data relating to the TSF are contained in Appendix B.
9.1

DATABASE

The monitoring and inspection results described in Section 8 will be distributed using the report forms
included in Appendix C2. The content of these reports is also to be recorded by type of data and by
monitoring point in order to provide a record of the changes at each monitoring point over the life of
the TSF and, in some cases, post-closure.
The SCADA system will record in an electronic database all measurements taken at the various points.
The database is searchable by type of measurement, location and date range. Various standard reports
are available to present information regularly reviewed by the Operator or the Engineer of Record.
Examples of typical report formats are included in Appendix C2, similar to the reports to be
programmed into the SCADA system. The Engineer of Record may from time to time establish
criteria and acceptable ranges to guide the operator, and these should be programmed into the reports
for easy monitoring of performance. Unfavorable trends or measurements outside the acceptable
ranges will trigger review by the Engineer or a review of the operators procedures.
9.2

FILING WRITTEN REPORTS

The Daily and Weekly reports described in Section 8 are to be scanned and archived electronically by
date after they have been reviewed and approved by the Tailing Superintendent. That review includes

ensuring that all required information is recorded no blanks. While in some cases this represents a
duplication of data that is recorded automatically, it permits the reconstruction of portions of the
record in the event that an automatic data logger were to fail.

One paper copy is to be filed by the Operator on site by date for use by the review team or the
Engineer of Record during the periodic review. Once the annual review is complete and the
completeness of the electronic copy is validated, the paper copies may be destroyed.
9.3

STORING ELECTRONIC DATA

All electronic instrumentation is monitored remotely and readings are stored in the SCADA database.
Data stored on SCADA is available to the Operator through a graphical interface and a series of
reports customized for easy interpretation of the data. Upon startup, the zero readings and calibration
coefficients will be established for each instrument and used to convert the raw data into the values
reported. After any subsequent recalibration (due to replacement or repair of an instrument) the
algorithms used to prepare the reports will be updated.
Certain information must be recorded manually. This includes water quality data, production rates
(embankment fill placed each shift), density test results, etc. This information is to be entered into a
database and archived in the same SCADA system, subject to the same access and backup protocols.
Access to the data will be through customized reports as described above.

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The following data will be recorded in SCADA:

9.4

Daily total tailing production from the Concentrator (dry tons)


Slurry density from the Concentrator, after the thickeners, at the Cyclone station
Tailing stream to the Scalping station (dry tons, percent solids by weight)
pH of slurry
Whole Tailing Gradation
Pressure monitoring at pumps and cyclones
Corrosion monitoring (cathodic protection and corrosion instrumentation)
Daily total reclaim water quantity (to mill)
Total make-up (fresh) water
Daily total seepage water quantity (to cyclone or reclaim pond)
Daily total dilution water to cyclone station
Cyclone operating time each day
Daily total cyclone underflow (for embankment construction)
Underflow slurry density
Tailing flow parameters
Results of quality control and quality assurance testing
Daily Precipitation
Piezometer readings
Seepage water quality, pH, Conductivity, Sulfate
Reclaim water quality, turbidity, pH
Elevations of embankment and beach along critical sections (estimated weekly, updated with
survey monthly)
List of upset or unusual conditions encountered
RETRIEVING ELECTRONIC DATA

The SCADA system will have a reporting interface through which the operator can access raw data or
a variety of reports comparing data from a selected range with the control parameters established by
the Engineer.
9.5

FILING REPORTS BY OTHERS

The operator will file a paper copy and scan into the SCADA system for archiving each of the
monthly, periodic and annual reports by the Engineer and the External Technical Review Board for
use by the staff. This library will include also the design report, as-built reports, any reports on
remedial work by the Engineer, and reports on investigations and responses to seismic or flood
events. Copies of equipment specifications, catalogues and manuals are also to be kept on site for the
operators use and updated as equipment is replaced or upgraded. The bibliography is to be kept
up to date and appended to this manual.
9.6

ANNUAL OPERATIONS MANUAL UPDATE

This Operations Manual will be updated once per year. The purpose of the updates will be to reflect
operation improvements that may be identified by tailing department personnel. The updates will also
respond to changes in reporting requirements and the environmental monitoring program that is
being conducted.
The Tailing Superintendent will be responsible for updating the Operations Manual. The purpose of
updating the manual is to incorporate operational improvements that have been identified, including
opportunities to reduce operating costs. Another objective will be to update the emergency reporting
procedures and the personnel who will be notified in the event of an emergency. Finalization of the
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manual will be supported by the SMCV General Manager, Mill Manager, and the Mine Manager. The
Environmental Manager will provide support with respect to the environmental monitoring program
information.

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10.0 EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN


10.1

OVERVIEW

This Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is a comprehensive plan developed to guide the operators of
the Cerro Verde TSF in the event the facility is faced with upset or extreme operating conditions.
The objective of the ERP is to define responsibilities and provide procedures designed to identify
unusual and unlikely conditions, which could endanger the TSF, in time to take remedial action and
to notify the appropriate entities and agencies if possible, regarding an impending or actual failure of
the TSF.
The ERP contains notification procedures that are intended to safeguard the environment and lives
of citizens in downstream areas in the event of a failure or damage to the TSF. The emergency
response procedures should be compatible and integrated with the disaster, fire and/or emergency
response plans of local governmental agencies. The personnel at the TSF should be trained and
should rehearse the procedures regularly as part of the training program for site operations. An
employee alarm system will be used to notify employees of an on-site emergency, to stop work
activities if necessary, to lower background noise (i.e. turn machinery off) in order to speed
communication, and to begin emergency procedures.
This ERP covers the emergency procedures related to a potential significant problem that may lead to
a failure at the tailing embankment, tailing impoundment or the Seepage Collection Sump. The ERP
does not include emergency actions related to the tailing delivery or the reclaim water systems since
emergency actions for these facilities are to be prepared by their designers and will be present in the
appropriate Operations Manual. This ERP does not replace or supplement the routine inspections
and monitoring of the TSF as described in Section 8. Rather, the intent of the ERP is to provide a
relatively brief summary of what actions to take in case of a real or impending emergency.
The ERP should be updated annually and/or when major changes have occurred. Information to
update should include:

New emergency numbers


Changes in personnel assignments
A record of new dwellings or buildings in the downstream area
Supplies and their locations
Changes made to the TSF design, construction and operation
Changes to the mine infrastructure that could impact appropriate emergency response
Changes in the local agencies and authorities

10.2

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Concentrator Manager should designate a corporate health and safety officer who will have
overall responsibility for the emergency response procedures identified. This health and safety officer
is:
<Name>
<Position title>
<Address>

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<Telephone>
<Email>
The person with responsibility for day-to-day operation and maintenance of the TSF is: Angel
Manchego, Tailings Superintendent, phone number 951-6310.
Implementation of this ERP is the responsibility of: Angel Manchego, Tailings Superintendent,
phone number 951-6310, or his designated local representative.
Determining and identifying conditions or events that require emergency action will be the
responsibility of: Angel Manchego, Tailings Superintendent, or his designated local
representative. Angel Manchego, or his designated local representative, is also responsible for:
a.

Conducting training of key personnel in emergency response procedures

b. Obtaining and maintaining emergency response supplies and equipment


c.

Maintaining on and offsite communications during an emergency

d. Establishing emergency escape routes and training onsite personnel in emergency response
procedures
e.

Evacuating and preventing company personnel from accessing areas downstream from the TSF
during an emergency

f.

Contacting emergency response officials in downstream communities (in order progressing


downstream): <names, titles, telephones>

The lack of road access and telephone inaccessibility should be taken into consideration when
evaluating how to contact the officials and residents of at any remote locations that could be affected
by a failure of the TSF in the event of an emergency condition at the TSF.
g. Contacting downstream water users:
1. <Name, contact information> _____________________________________________________
2. <Name, contact information> _____________________________________________________
3. <Name, contact information> _____________________________________________________
4. <Name, contact information> _____________________________________________________
h. Contacting the Local Authorities and Agencies (SMCV to list them)
i.

Contacting the MEM

j.

Contacting the Engineer of Record, MWH, tel. 1 303 291-2222

k. Taking emergency measures at the TSF to prevent failure


l.

Documenting emergency response actions and measures taken

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EMERGENCY SUPPLIES AND RESOURCES

In an emergency situation, equipment and supplies might be needed on short notice, such as
sandbags, rip rap, fill materials, equipment, and laborers. These items and personnel are available
from:
Angel Manchego_______________________________________________________
Tailings
Superintendent________________________________________________________________
<Address>____________________________________________________________________
381515 ext. 4347_(office)_951-6310
(Cell phone)_________________________________________________
a.manchego@phelpsd.com.pe___________________________________________________________
_______
10.4

EMERGENCY CONDITIONS

Listed below are some, not necessarily all, of the events that could lead directly to an instability of the
TSF. Included after each one is a brief outline of steps that should be considered in order to stabilize
the situation.
10.4.1

Earthquake

If an earthquake has been felt, or an earthquake of magnitude 6 or greater has been reported in the
vicinity, the following procedures should be followed:
1. The Tailing Superintendent should identify a qualified person, trained in the safety and
emergency response procedures to immediately conduct a general overall visual inspection of the
tailing embankment.
2. If the embankment is failing, immediately implement the instructions in the section entitled
FAILURE IS IN PROGRESS (Section 10.5.1).
3. If the embankment is damaged to the extent that there is flow passing downstream, immediately
implement the procedures outlined in the section entitled FAILURE IS IMMINENT
(Section 10.5.2).
4. If damage has occurred, but is not judged to be serious enough to cause failure of the
embankment, observe the nature, location, and extent of the damage, as well as the potential for
failure. Then follow the procedure outlined in Section 10.5.3 FAILURE IS DEVELOPING.
5. If there is no imminent danger of dam failure then The Tailing Superintendent, or a qualified
person trained in the safety and emergency response procedures, should thoroughly inspect the
following:
a. The entire crest and face of the embankment for cracks, settlement, slumping or seepage
b. The pipe conveyance systems on the TSF for ruptures, displacements, or other damage
c. The abutments for possible displacement

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d.
e.
f.
g.
h.

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The Seepage Collection Sump embankment for cracks, settlement, slumping or seepage
The liner of the Seepage Collection Sump for tears or other damage
The spillway of the Seepage Collection Sump to confirm that its free of debris and damage
The drains or seeps for cloudy or muddy water, or increased flow
The impoundment perimeter for signs of landslides

Readings from all instrumentation (piezometers and seepage monitoring weir) should be obtained
and compared to previous readings. Readings from the two accelerometers located at the TSF
should also be reviewed.
All findings should be immediately reported to the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record) and the
agencies that had been contacted earlier during the emergency. The facility should be closely
observed for two to four weeks following the earthquake as some damage might not show up
immediately.
10.4.2

Flooding

Routing of the inflow design flood indicates that the probable maximum flood (PMF) will be stored
on the impoundment under normal operating conditions, unless the Reclaim Water Pond is unusually
large and is located too close to the embankment.
The Seepage Collection Sump is designed to store the inflow from the 100 year, 24 hour flood in
addition to normal seepage flows during a 12-hour power outage. The spillway is designed to pass
the 500 year, 24 hour flood with a freeboard of 0.5 m.
In the unlikely event that the water within the impoundment reaches within less than 50 m of the
embankment crest (with the exception of the start-up period before reaching the Starter Dam crest),
immediately implement the following procedures:
A. Check the downstream toe and abutments for any unusual seepage and the drain flows to the
Seepage Collection Sump. If there is any indication of cloudy or muddy flow, or the flow is
increasing, implement FAILURE IS IMMINENT process (Section 10.5.2) immediately.
B. Check for increased/decreased seepage.
C. Check for cracks, slumping, sloughing, sliding, or other distress signals near the embankment
abutments or crest.
D. Contact the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record).
The ability to access the dam for inspection may be restricted due to safety concerns during flooding.
Vehicle access to the embankment under such a scenario may not be advisable. If access is
considered imperative, other means of access should be considered. Under imminent failure
conditions, access to the embankment crest, downstream face and toe areas should be prohibited.

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10.5
10.5.1

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FAILURE CONDITIONS
Failure is in Progress

If a failure is in progress, evacuation of the downstream floodplain must be initiated immediately


and the local emergency response agencies must be notified. The roads within the downstream
floodplains and the tunnel should be immediately closed and any people at the road immediately
evacuated from the area. In an event of a failure, immediate notification of the parties listed in the
following flow chart should be undertaken:

NOTIFICATION CHART
Observer of Emergency Situation:
Name:
Title:
Phone:
Health and Safety Officer or his Designated Representative:
Name:
Title:
Phone:
Cerro Verde Mine
Contact:
Name:
Title:
Local Police Contact:
Name:
Title:
Phone:
Department of Emergency Management Duty Officer:
Name:
Title:
Phone:
Mining Department:
Name:
Title:
Phone:

Following these notification procedures, the post-failure actions indicated in Section 10.7 should be
initiated.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

10.5.2

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 87

Failure is Imminent

If a failure is imminent, but has not yet begun, the following steps should be initiated immediately:
A. Advise all personnel working downstream of the TSF of the situation and have them evacuate
the flood plain area of any personnel or equipment.
B. Advise local agencies to notify persons downstream from the TSF to evacuate due to the
potential failure of the embankment.
C. Implement the notification flow chart in section 10.5.1.
D. Take preventive actions described in Section 10.6.
10.5.3

Failure is Developing

If there is a slowly developing failure or unusual situation, where failure is not imminent, but
could occur if no action is taken, the TSF operational personnel should:
A. Notify all people working on or downstream of the tailing embankment.
B. Contact a local experienced geotechnical engineer for an immediate inspection of the dam.
C. Contact and inform the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record), MWH (telephone: 1 303-2912222) of the situation.
D. Notify the local authorities of the potential problem and keep them advised of the situation.
E. During these contacts, find out if there are any immediate actions that can be taken to reduce the
risk of failure.
F. If necessary, implement preventative actions described in Section 10.6.
10.6
10.6.1

RESPONSE ACTIONS IF THERE IS


Slide on the Downstream Slope of the Embankment

Communicate the situation to the Design Engineer who should provide direction or appropriate
response measures. Measures such as those summarized below may be appropriate.
If the slide affected the freeboard, immediately restore the lost freeboard by placing sandbags or
compacted fill on the embankment crest.
If the slide is on the downstream slope of the embankment, establish the potential reasons for the
slide. If a reason for the slide is an excessive seepage in the area, install a temporary sump to remove
the water from the embankment. If the seepage is cloudy, place a filter blanket to stop removal of
particles. Then stabilize the slide area by placing suitable additional soil, rock, or gravel in the area.
If the slide is at the toe of the embankment, install a drain blanket and then stabilize the area by
weighting the toe area with additional suitable soil.

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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 88

Special care and safety measures should be taken when working in a slide area. The possibility of a
progressive failure should be considered.
10.6.2

Loss of Freeboard

Communicate the situation to the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record) who should provide
direction or appropriate response measures. Measures such as those summarized below may be
appropriate.
Restore the lost freeboard by placing sandbags or compacted fill along the embankment crest. Then,
investigate the reasons for the loss of freeboard and take appropriate remediation measures.
10.6.3

Excessive Seepage

Communicate the situation to the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record) who should provide
direction or appropriate response measures. Measures such as those summarized below may be
appropriate.
Frequently monitor the embankment for signs of slides, cracking, or signs of instability. Monitor
concentrated seepage for changes in the flow quantity, extent, cloudiness of the flow. Consider
possible remedial actions, such as filter blankets and/or a stabilizing buttress.
10.6.4

Excessive Embankment Settlement

Communicate the situation to the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record) who should provide
direction or appropriate response measures. Measures such as those summarized below may be
appropriate.
Restore lost freeboard by placing sand bags or compacted fill on the embankment crest. Continue
monitoring the area for more settlement or any signs of instability. Immediately investigate the
reasons for the settlement and implement remedial measures.
10.6.5

High Phreatic Surface in Embankment

Communicate the situation to the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record) who should provide
direction or appropriate response measures. Measures such as those summarized below may be
appropriate.
Frequently monitor the embankment for signs of slides, cracking, or concentrated seepage. Take
frequent readings of the monitoring instruments and analyze the results to establish trends or changes
in the expected embankment behavior. If the observations indicate that the phreatic surface is higher
than the maximum allowable limit established by the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record),
measures to reduce the water level and/or to stabilize the embankment should be immediately taken.
These may include a temporary termination of the embankment construction, installation of
additional drains, construction of a buttress, or other measures.
10.6.6

Embankment Cracking

Communicate the situation to the Design Engineer who should provide direction or appropriate
response measures. Measures such as those summarized below may be appropriate.

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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 89

If cracking is observed on the embankment crest or slope, the affected area should be clearly marked
and surveyed. The area should be carefully monitored for any changes in the crack width and length.
The downstream slope of the embankment should be inspected for any signs of instability.
Piezometer and other monitoring instrumentation readings should be taken and the results should be
reviewed. All results of the inspection, survey and monitoring should be forwarded to the Design
Engineer (Engineer of Record) for review and assessment.
10.6.7

Seeps, Sandboils, and Sinkhole Development

Communicate the situation to the Design Engineer (Engineer of Record) who should provide
direction or appropriate response measures. Measures such as those summarized below may be
appropriate.
If there is a rapid increase in flow from previously existing seeps, an increase in under-drain flow, or
if new springs, seeps, or boils appear that are associated with the TSF, establish the location, size of
the affected area, estimated discharge, and nature of the discharge (clear or cloudy). If a sinkhole is
observed, secure the area with appropriate signs and fencing, so access of people or wild life is
restricted. Continue monitoring the affected area.
If failure appears likely, implement the procedures outlined in the section entitled FAILURE IS
IMMINENT (Section 10.5.2); otherwise, report all findings to the Design Engineer and the local
agencies.
10.7

POST-FAILURE ACTIONS

If a failure of the embankment or a release has occurred, Angel Manchego, Tailing


Superintendent, or the designated local representative, should notify the local authorities and
downstream water users to:
A.
B.
C.
D.

Issue a notification for a drinking water ban until the impacts can be assessed
Initiate import of drinking water to affected communities
Initiate downstream impact assessments
Develop and implement cleanup plans

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Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 90

11.0 SCHEDULE
Based on the planned mining rate, an average of 108,000 tons of tailing will be deposited in the TSF
each day for the next 22 years. Construction of the embankment and filling of the impoundment will
be a continuous process. However, as it is not practical or cost effective to conduct some activities at
a slow rate continuously, several construction campaigns will be undertaken to expand the drainage
blanket, drains, instrumentation and blanket over the limestone on the left (West) abutment. In
addition, management of the tailing surface through deposition in specific areas is required to
maintain the reclaim water pond in the correct location. To do this a scalping station will be
constructed near the mill in about 2007.
The most significant activities are described below and indicated in the TSF Construction and
Operations Schedule presented in Figure 11-1. It should be noted that the time and duration of all
activities presented in the schedule might change, depending on the actual production rates and on
conditions encountered during the operation of the facility. The intent of this overall schedule is to
provide general guidance for planning purposes, and detailed schedules will be required for each
campaign. The schedule should be updated at least annually to address changes to the design,
construction and operation of the TSF.

Embankment Raise. The embankment raise will be a continuous process throughout the
operation of the facility. The only specific event during embankment construction is a change in
the crest alignment when the elevation reaches 2525 m (in year 3). At that time a bend is to be
introduced in the alignment on the left abutment in order to avoid encroaching on the
neighboring private property.

Underflow Header Extension. The crest length will increase with elevation and the underflow
header will need to be extended accordingly. The header must be extended each year as indicated
in Table 4-5-1.

Underflow Header Relocation. Approximately 250 meters of underflow header alignment will
be relocated to the downstream side of the embankment crest where it contours around the
bedrock knob on the East abutment. This relocation will occur between about years 5 and 6
when the embankment elevation reaches about 2560 m.

Overflow Extension. The pipeline extending from the left abutment to the discharge point in
the West valley will be extended and relocated each year as the impoundment level rises. This
pipeline will be placed on an access road, or on top of the West abutment protective blanket over
the limestone.

Embankment Drains. The toe of the embankment will expand downstream as the crest is
raised. The drain under the embankment will be expanded in stages as discussed in Section 4.5.1.
The estimated timing and durations for drain expansions are shown in Figure 11-1. The first
drain expansion will extend the drain system to the five-year embankment footprint, the second
to the ten-year footprint and the third to the ultimate footprint. The drain design will be
developed prior to each expansion. The duration of drain construction activities will depend on
the production rate of the material processing plant and the required drain quantities, which will
be estimated after completion of the design. Production of materials for the drain may start
earlier so that suitable materials can be produced and stockpiled on site in advance of placement.
The drain construction durations shown on Figure 11-1 are therefore not definitive.

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Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X 91

Left Abutment Protective Blanketing. Limestone that is exposed in the left abutment will be
covered with a blanket of waste rock and compacted in 1-meter lifts. This blanket is to be placed
ahead of tailing deposition, but not so far ahead that it is exposed to the risk of damage by storm
runoff or other means. The purpose of the left abutment blanket is to avoid flow of the tailing
fines into the potentially karstic limestone. It is not expected to provide a barrier to water flow.
The estimated construction times and durations depend on the actual rate of rise of the
impoundment, the availability of borrow materials and the material placement rate and method.
Deferral of sustaining capital cost will also be a consideration in the timing of construction.

Instrumentation. Additional instrumentation will be installed in the embankment at the end of


year one, and again in approximately years 5, 7, 12 and 17 as the embankment footprint is
developed. It is possible that instrumentation in addition to that currently planned may be
required, or some instruments may need to be replaced.

Geotechnical Investigations. Several geotechnical investigations are planned to be conducted


as the embankment is raised. The main objectives of the investigations will be to identify suitable
materials for construction, to evaluate the stability of the TSF through characterizing the
properties of the embankment materials, and to review the overall performance of the facility.
The embankment will be investigated at the end of year one, then again in years 5, 7, 12, 17 and
22. The embankment investigation may be coordinated with the installation of additional
piezometers where practical and cost effective.

Tailing Deposition. Generally tailing will be deposited into the impoundment from the
embankment. However at some stages tailing overflow will be deposited from other areas to
force the supernatant pond into the desired position. Deposition in the West, Central and East
drainages will be required to avoid the formation of additional ponds from which supernatant
water cannot be reclaimed for use in the process. To do this and not waste valuable
embankment building material, a scalping station will be put into service near the mill, from
which only fine-grained tailing will be deposited to the drainages. The scalping station will be
required after the 1st year of operation.

Cyclone Station Relocation. When the embankment reaches 2550 m approximately in year 5,
the cyclone station will be relocated to a higher location on the right abutment. At least one
additional cyclone station relocation will be required to bring the TSF to its ultimate
configuration.

A sustaining capital and operations cost estimate based on the presented TSF schedule is included in
Appendix D to this report. The cost estimate does not include provisions for the relocation of the
road, construction of the scalping station, relocation of the central scalping station, tailing delivery
and reclaim water system costs.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X Appendices

APPENDIX A
OM Revision and Holders Record

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

TABLE A-1
List of Registered Holders of the TSF Operations Manual
NAME

DEPARTMENT

SIGNATURE OF
RECEIPT

DATE

COPY NO.

TABLE A-2
Acknowledgement of Receipt and Understanding
TSF Operations Manual
RECEIVED

I have read and understood the


contents of this manual

COPY #
DATE
NAME
SIGNATURE
Date

(Conc. Group only)


Name
Signature
Supervisor

Date

(Conc. Group only)


Name
Signature

TABLE A-3
RECORD OF REVISIONS/ADDENDA TO THE TSF OPERATIONS MANUAL
Section

Table

Appendix

Revision No.

Addenda No.

Date of Issue

Comment

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X Appendices

APPENDIX B
Environmental Management Plan for the Tailing Storage Facility Operations

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

Prepared for:
SOCIEDAD MINERA CERRO VERDE S.A.A.
Casilla Postal 299
Arequipa, Per

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR


TAILING STORAGE FACILITY OPERATIONS

September 2006

Prepared by:
MWH
1801 California Street
Suite 2900
Denver, Colorado 80202
(303) 291-2222
MWH PROJECT NO. 1010211.01251401

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x TOC i

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section No.
1.0

Page No.

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 1

1.1
GENERAL ......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2
BACKGROUND ................................................................................................................................. 1
1.3
ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATORY DRIVERS ...................................................................................... 2
1.3.1 Applicable Environmental Regulations ...................................................................................... 2
1.3.2 Equator Principles...................................................................................................................... 3
1.3.3 Environmental Compliance Auditing ......................................................................................... 3
1.4
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM ...................................................................................... 4
1.4.1 Relationship of the EMP to the EMS .......................................................................................... 4
1.4.2 Relationship of the EMP to the TSF Operations Manual ........................................................... 5
1.4.3 Relationship to the Closure Plan for the SMCV Site .................................................................. 5
1.5
EMP OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE ......................................................................................................... 5
1.5.1 Identified Potential Environmental Impacts ............................................................................... 5
1.5.2 Scope of the EMP ....................................................................................................................... 6
2.0

TAILING STORAGE FACILITY ................................................................................................... 7

2.1
DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEMS ............................................................................................................... 7
2.2
SUMMARY OF TSF OPERATIONS...................................................................................................... 7
2.2.1 Normal Operations..................................................................................................................... 8
2.2.2 Periods of Operations Cessation................................................................................................ 8
3.0

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN .............................................................................. 9

3.1
EMP OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES .................................................................................................. 9
3.1.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan................................................................................................. 9
3.1.2 Environmental Mitigation Program ......................................................................................... 10
3.1.3 Emergency Response and Contingency Plan............................................................................ 10
3.2
INSPECTIONS AND REPORTING ....................................................................................................... 11
3.3
MONITORING PLAN AND MITIGATION MEASURES ......................................................................... 11
3.3.1 Topography and Landscape ..................................................................................................... 11
3.3.1.1
3.3.1.2
3.3.1.3

3.3.2

Air Quality................................................................................................................................ 13

3.3.2.1
3.3.2.2
3.3.2.3

3.3.3

Impacts on Groundwater................................................................................................................. 18
Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 18
Monitoring...................................................................................................................................... 18
Monitoring Frequency .................................................................................................................... 20

Soils .......................................................................................................................................... 21

3.3.5.1
3.3.5.2
3.3.5.3

3.3.6

Impacts on Surface Waters ............................................................................................................. 16


Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 16
Monitoring...................................................................................................................................... 16

Groundwater ............................................................................................................................ 17

3.3.4.1
3.3.4.2
3.3.4.3
3.3.4.4

3.3.5

Impacts on Air Quality ................................................................................................................... 13


Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 13
Monitoring...................................................................................................................................... 14

Surface Water ........................................................................................................................... 15

3.3.3.1
3.3.3.2
3.3.3.3

3.3.4

Impacts on Topography and Landscape.......................................................................................... 11


Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 11
Monitoring...................................................................................................................................... 11

Impacts on Soils ............................................................................................................................. 21


Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 21
Monitoring...................................................................................................................................... 21

Vegetation................................................................................................................................. 22

3.3.6.1
3.3.6.2
3.3.6.3

Impacts on Vegetation .................................................................................................................... 22


Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 23
Monitoring...................................................................................................................................... 23
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Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x TOC ii

Fauna ....................................................................................................................................... 23

3.3.7.1
3.3.7.2
3.3.7.3

3.3.8

Impacts on Fauna............................................................................................................................ 23
Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 23
Monitoring Measures...................................................................................................................... 23

Archaeological Resources ........................................................................................................ 24

3.3.8.1
3.3.8.2
3.3.8.3

Impacts on Archaeological Resources ............................................................................................ 25


Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................................... 25
Monitoring...................................................................................................................................... 25

3.4
SCHEDULING OF ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITIES ............................................................................. 25
3.5
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES....................................................................................................... 25
3.6
ENVIRONMENTAL TRAINING PROGRAM ......................................................................................... 26
3.6.1 Objectives ................................................................................................................................. 26
3.6.2 Program Development Mechanism .......................................................................................... 26
4.0
4.1
4.2
5.0
5.1
5.2
5.3
6.0
6.1
6.2
7.0

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING DURING PERIODS OF TEMPORARY


OPERATIONS CESSATION ......................................................................................................... 27
MONITORING OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................... 27
ALTERNATIVE MONITORING PLAN ................................................................................................ 27
CONCURRENT RECLAMATION PLAN ................................................................................... 28
RELATIONSHIP OF THE EMP TO THE PSP CLOSURE PLAN ............................................................. 28
RECLAMATION OF PERMANENTLY INACTIVE AREAS ................................................................ 28
MONITORING PLAN........................................................................................................................ 28
EMERGENCY RESPONSE ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN.............................. 30
GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................... 30
EMERGENCY RESPONSE ASSOCIATED WITH THE TSF .................................................................... 31
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................ 32

LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
1
2

Description
Tailing Storage Facility Environmental Management Schedule
Emergency Response Environmental Control and Monitoring

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
1
2

Description
Tailing Storage Facility Site Map
Environmental Monitoring Locations

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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x TOC iii

LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix

Description

Appendix 1
Appendix 2
Appendix 3

Air Quality Monitoring Report Forms and Monitoring Protocol


Surface Water Quality Monitoring Report Form and Monitoring Protocol
Groundwater Quality Monitoring Report Form and Monitoring Protocol

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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x TOC iv

LIST OF ACRONYMS
CEP
CIRA
EMP
EMPM
EMS
ERCP
ESMP
EIA
IFC
INC
ISO
MEM
PEL
PM10
PSP
SMCV
TDS
TSS
TS
TSF
TSP

Contingency and Emergency Plan


Certificates of Inexistence of Archaeological Remains
Environmental Management Plan
Environmental Management Procedures Manual
Environmental Management System
Emergency Response and Contingency Plan
Environmental and Social Management Plan
Environmental Impact Assessment
International Finance Corporation
National Institute of Culture
International Standards Organization
Ministry of Energy and Mines
Permissible Exposure Limits
Particulate Mass (particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter)
Primary Sulfide Project
Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.
Total Dissolved Solids
Total Suspended Solids
Total Solids
Tailing Storage Facility
Total Suspended Particulates

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September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 1

1.0
1.1

INTRODUCTION

GENERAL

The document contained herein is the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the Tailing
Storage Facility (TSF) Operations under the Primary Sulfide Project (PSP). The Environmental
Management Plan for the TSF operations represents one of several environmental management plans
that will be implemented at the PSP. This EMP applies only to TSF operations and does not address
environmental management during the initial capital construction and closure phases. The purpose of
the EMP is to provide PSP managers with a program for monitoring the environment in the vicinity
of the TSF during the operational phase of the TSF and to implement mitigation measures based on
the results of the monitoring efforts.
The EMP is required by the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) as a demonstration that adequate
environmental protection associated with TSF operations will be implemented. The EMP conforms
to applicable international and Peruvian standards for the operation of such facilities in Peru. The
EMP conforms to the requirements of the Cerro Verde Site Environmental Management System
(EMS) that was developed under the International Standards Organizations ISO 14001
Environmental Management Standard. The EMP represents a component of the overall site-wide
Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) and should be implemented in conjunction with
the monitoring requirements spelled out in the ESMP.
Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A. (SMCV) is committed to protecting the environment.
Implementation of the EMP is intended to minimize environmental issues associated with the normal
operation of the TSF. The EMP provides operations personnel with information on the
environmental setting, the potential environmental issues, a monitoring program and recommended
environmental management measures that SMCV will utilize for managing environmental issues at the
TSF in a safe and environmentally conscientious manner. The EMP below considers the major
components which comprise the TSF, including the tailing delivery system, TSF impoundment area,
TSF embankment, reclaim water pond including pumpback facilities, cyclone station, scalping cyclone
station, seepage collection sump and pumpback system, and TSF access roads.
The EMP will be a subject to periodic review and updating. SMCV Environmental personnel will
assume the responsibility for updating the EMP so that EMP information provided during regular
employee training is current and appropriate for the TSF operations. The TSF Environmental
Superintendent in association with the Tailing Superintendent is responsible for implementing the
requirements of the EMP.
1.2

BACKGROUND

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A. (SMCV), which is owned by Phelps Dodge (majority
shareholder), Sumitomo Corporation (Sumitomo), and Compaa Minera Buenaventura S.A.
(Buenaventura), operates the Cerro Verde copper mine in the province of Arequipa in southern Peru.
At present, SMCV mines and processes oxide and secondary sulfide ore from the Santa Rosa and
Cerro Verde open pits at a rate of approximately 180,000 metric tons per day (t/d). The ore
processing circuit includes heap leach pads, leachate solution collection ponds, a solvent extraction
and electrowinning (SX/EW) plant, and other ancillary facilities. High quality electrolytic copper
cathodes produced in the SX/EW process are sent by truck to the Port of Matarani, where they are
exported to international markets.
Under the current mine plan, higher grade oxide and secondary sulfide leachable ore reserves will be
exhausted by approximately 2025 and run of mine (ROM) leachable ore will be available until
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 2

approximately 2035. The mine is planning to start operation in two new smaller pits, the Cerro Negro
North and Cerro Negro South, in the near future.
Beginning the fourth quarter of 2006 SMCV will mine deeper primary sulfide ore deposits from the
Santa Rosa and Cerro Verde pits, which will extend the mine life through approximately 2039. SMCV
has begun construction of a new concentrator plant and tailing storage facility that will allow
processing of primary sulfide ore beginning in the fourth quarter of 2006. Approximately 250 t/d of
cathode copper, 10 t/d of molybdenum concentrate, and 2,400 t/d of copper concentrate will be
produced and transported to the Port of Matarani for international shipment while both leaching and
concentrator facilities are in operation.
According to the Cerro Verde sites current mine plan, mining of oxide and secondary sulfide ore
would continue until 2035. Mining of primary sulfide ore will continue until 2039. Operation of the
TSF is scheduled to begin in October 2006 and end in 2029. The TSF site map is shown on Figure 1.
1.3

ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATORY DRIVERS

There are several Peruvian and international environmental regulations that affect environmental
protection programs that are planned at the PSP. These national and international requirements are
presented below.
1.3.1 Applicable Environmental Regulations
The following general laws and decrees apply to the PSP, among others:

Supreme Decree No. 014-92-EM, Single Ordered Text of the General Mining Law (enacted June 2,
1992)

Supreme Decree No. 016-93-EM, Environmental Protection Regulations for Mining-Metallurgical Activities
(enacted April 28, 1993 and modified by Supreme Decrees No. 059-93-EM (December 13, 1993)
and 058-99 EM (November 24, 1999)

Legislative Decree No. 613, Environmental and Natural Resources Code (September 7, 1990)

Legislative Decree No. 757, Framework Law for Private Investment Growth (November 8, 1991)

Supreme Decree No. 018-92-EM, Mining Procedure Regulations (September 7, 1992)

Ministry Resolution No. 596-2002-EM/DM, Regulations for Public Participation in the Approval
Procedure of Environmental Studies Submitted to the Ministry of Energy and Mines

Supreme Decree No. 042-2003-EM, Previous Commitment for Development of Mining Activities and
Supplemental Rules

The MEM is the primary regulatory authority, which regulates and supervises activities related to the
mine site, including the TSF. Consequently, MEM coordinates directly with other government
authorities concerning specific regulatory and environmental issues related to their respective areas of
responsibility.
Based on the regulatory requirements above, the PSP, in general, will be required to institute and
maintain environmental monitoring and environmental control systems including those that apply to
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

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the TSF. This includes the periodic inspection of the TSF, environmental sampling and laboratory
analysis, and reporting the results to MEM.
Environmental emissions from the TSF must not exceed specific effluent standards that have been
established by MEM. MEM has published environmental standards known as Maximum Permissible
Limits (MPLs) that apply to the entire PSP for air emissions and surface water effluents.
Additionally, monitoring protocol guidelines are contained in:

Air Quality Monitoring Guide for Mining Activity, Protocol for Air Quality and Emissions
Monitoring

Water Monitoring Guides for Mining Activity, Protocol for Water Quality Monitoring.

All required authorizations, licenses and certificates have been obtained by SMCV for the operation of
the PSP. The PSP Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been approved by the MEM, and is
the primary document that lays out the planned project and environmental protection features that
will be instituted.
Section 3.3.1 of the Tailing Operations Manual (Design Report, Volume 9) describes the specific air
quality, water, vegetation, fauna, and soils regulations that apply to the TSF. Numeric limits for water
and air quality are also referenced in Section 3.3.1 of the manual.
Section 3.3.2 of the Tailing Operations Manual describes the current international guidelines for
environmental management that were considered in the preparation of the EMP.
1.3.2 Equator Principles
In 2003, the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) developed and issued what
are known as the Equator Principles. The Equator Principles are implemented through the use of the
World Bank and IFCs environmental guidelines related to environmental, socioeconomic, and
cultural issues developed for the international financial entities. Many mining companies and
international lenders have adopted the Equator Principles as a binding pre-requisite for project
financing. The Equator Principles were developed by member financial institutions to provide a
framework for minimizing potential environmental and socioeconomic problems that may affect the
lenders investment risk in international mining projects.
The Equator Principles require mining projects to develop an EMP that draws from information
contained in a projects Environmental Impact Assessment document. The EMP is required to
address several topics including mitigation measures, monitoring programs, risk management, and
environmental management scheduling.
1.3.3 Environmental Compliance Auditing
Independent auditors contracted by MEM will conduct periodic environmental compliance and health
and safety audits of the entire PSP including the TSF. An audit would be conducted once every six
months. The objective will be to identify existing and or potential problems and recommend
corrective measures that would be implemented by SMCV.
The SMCV Environmental Manager will be responsible for designing and implementing the audit
program. The Environmental Manager will arrange for the selection and services of the outside firm,
formalize the scope of work and budget, coordinate with SMCV management and the Tailing
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Superintendent regarding the completion of the audit, and coordinate the dissemination of results and
audit follow-up.
1.4

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

The Environmental Management System for SMCV is supported by ISO 14001 requirements, and is
included in the Environmental Management Plan Manual (EMPM). The EMS was developed in 2004
and certification was subsequently received. Implementation of the EMS involved the development
of the following programs:

A document preparation process required by international standards


Training programs for both management and operations employees
Formation of internal environmental compliance auditing teams
Development and dissemination of a site-specific environmental policy

1.4.1 Relationship of the EMP to the EMS


The EMP herein is based on several documents that are related to the requirements of the
Environmental Management System that is in place at the Cerro Verde site. The documents include:

Environmental Impact Assessment (Knight Pisold, 2004a)


Environmental Policy (SMCV, 2005a)
Environmental and Social Management Plan, Primary Sulfide Project (SMCV, 2005b)

The following documents were considered for the preparation of the EMP:

SMCV, 2004. Environmental Management Procedures Manual (EMPM)


MWH, 2006c. Volume 9 - Tailing Storage Facility Operations Manual
MWH, 2005a. Volume 6 - Tailing Storage facility Water Balance Analysis
MWH, 2005b. Environmental Management Plan for ARD and Stormwater Management
MWH, 2005c. Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
MWH, 2006a. Closure Plan for the Unidad de Produccin Cerro Verde
MWH, 2006b. Finite Element Hydrologic Model of the Cerro Verde Tailing Storage Facility.

With respect to environmental impacts, the EIA represents the base document that identifies
potential environmental impacts associated with the TSF, as well as mitigation measures that could be
implemented to reduce or eliminate these impacts. SMCV has committed to incorporating the PSP
into its ISO 14001 certification as well as in its Environmental Management System (EMS). Under
the EMS, SMCV is committed to developing Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) that describe
how environmental protection, monitoring, and mitigation measures will be implemented at its
facilities including the TSF. SMCV intends to incorporate the PSP into its ISO 14001 certification in
the foreseeable future.
General environmental management aspects for the TSF are addressed in a site-wide Environmental
and Social Management Plan (SMCV, 2005). Specific environmental management aspects are
described in the EMP herein. The ESMP contains appendices that address erosion control and Best
Management Practices. The EMP herein relies on the erosion control methods and BMPs contained
in the ESMP.

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1.4.2 Relationship of the EMP to the TSF Operations Manual


Even though the EMP is included as an appendix to the TSF Operations Manual (MWH, 2006c), it
can be used as a stand-alone document. The purpose of the operations manual is to serve as a
reference document for personnel involved in the operation of the TSF. Even though the Operations
Manual focuses on TSF operation and maintenance related activities, it also contains emergency
response information and facility monitoring and inspection procedures related to TSF operations
that are provided in more detail in this EMP.
1.4.3 Relationship to the Closure Plan for the SMCV Site
The proposed EMP monitoring program is consistent with the monitoring program and the
objectives of the Mine Closure Plan.
1.5

EMP OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE

The EMP is intended to facilitate compliance with environmental commitments referenced in the
EIA for the PSP, and meeting the environmental standards for international lending agencies, as
specified in the Equator Principles. This EMP addresses environmental management procedures for
the TSF only. It does not address socioeconomic issues.
The EMP is intended to address several key environmental management issues including:

Identify potential environmental impacts of the TSF operation.

Provide a program for monitoring the potential environmental impacts.

Provide a mitigation plan for the TSF to mitigate the environmental impacts of TSF operations.

Provide an Emergency Response and Contingency Plan (ERCP) for environmental risk
management of TSF operations.

This EMP will be reviewed by SMCV annually. A review of the EMP is also recommended after an
emergency situation, extreme weather conditions, earthquake, or other events that affect the TSF
operations and may have an environmental impact.
All users of the EMP are encouraged to provide comments and suggestions for improvement of the
EMP and the monitoring procedures contained in it. The comments and suggestions should be
forwarded to the SMCV Environmental Manager for consideration in the annual review of the
document. The SMCV Environmental Manager is responsible for reviewing and updating the
manual.
The EMP herein is intended to act as a how-to document that will be used by environmental
personnel in the daily operation of the TSF. The EMP contains the forms and information to assist
the responsible personnel to perform environmental management, monitoring, and reporting tasks on
a day-to-day basis.
1.5.1 Identified Potential Environmental Impacts
The main potential environmental impacts related to the TSF operations identified in the EIA
(Knight Pisold, 2004a) include:
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Transformation of the head of the Quebrada Enlozada into a raised terrace; changing the
morphology of the upper part of the quebrada

Loss of soil and vegetation resulting from the gradual filling of the tailing impoundment

Dust generation caused by tailing particles becoming airborne during high wind conditions and
excessively dry roads emitting particulate dust because of significant vehicle traffic

Alteration of groundwater quality in the shallow groundwater system under the TSF

Loss of stormwater flows in the Quebrada Enlozada captured within the TSF system

Habitat reduction

Loss of archaeological artifacts

1.5.2 Scope of the EMP


This EMP lays out three primary environmental management components that are related to the
operation of the Tailing Storage Facility. The three management components include:

Environmental monitoring

Environmental mitigation

Emergency response and contingency

The environmental monitoring component must be consistently implemented during operations, and,
as needed, environmental mitigation provisions must be carried out until environmental monitoring
results show that the mitigation actions were successful. Unforeseen emergencies will trigger
additional monitoring and mitigation depending on the type of event that occurs, if any, and this EMP
recognizes this remote possibility. Therefore, this EMP lays out the plan for conducting
environmental monitoring and mitigation in the context of both proactive (normal operations) and
reactive (emergency) situations.
Emergency situations related to the TSF will be related to unforeseen engineered system failures. If
an emergency situation develops, there may or may not be environmental consequences associated
with a system failure. However, the EMP characterizes the types of emergency situations that could
reasonably arise. The emergency response (monitoring and mitigation) procedure associated with
each type of potential system failure are quite different from each other and SMCV personnel should
recognize the distinctions between the types of system failures that could reasonably occur and how
they would respond to them.

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2.0

TAILING STORAGE FACILITY

The following information describes the basic systems of the TSF and a summary of its normal
operation. The operational summary below also describes operation of the TSF during potential
periods of cessation.
2.1

DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEMS

The TSF will be constructed in the Quebrada Enlozada north of the processing plant (Figure 2). The
TSF will initially consist of an 85m high-zoned rockfill Starter Dam. At the end of operations, a
260m high embankment constructed of cycloned tailing sand by the centerline method will have
been constructed over the Starter Dam. The tailing impoundment behind the embankment will
cover an area of approximately 453 Ha. The base of the Quebrada Enlozada at the location of the
Starter Dam is at an approximate elevation of 2400m above mean sea level (amsl). In comparison,
the elevation of the processing plant is about 2700m amsl. The planned Starter Dam crest elevation
will be 2485m amsl and the final embankment crest elevation will be 2660m amsl.
Tailing generated in the concentrators grinding and flotation process will be sent to two high
capacity thickeners that will thicken the tailing slurry from about 27% solids to about 55% solids by
weight. The thickened slurry will be conveyed by gravity through a 48-inch diameter HDPE SDR 21
pipeline to a cyclone station located on the right (East) abutment of the TSF embankment. At the
cyclone station, the tailing slurry will undergo two-stage cycloning to separate the coarse sand
fraction from the fine fraction. Silty sand (the underflow) will be used for embankment construction,
and the fines (the overflow) will be discharged into the impoundment.
A reclaim water pond will be maintained at the rear (upstream) end of the TSF impoundment. Water
from the reclaim water pond will be returned to the concentrator for reuse or to the cyclone station
where it will be used as dilution water. Seepage from the TSF embankment will be collected by a
network of finger and blanket drains and conveyed to a seepage collection sump located immediately
downstream of the final embankment toe. The water will then be pumped from the sump to the
cyclone station and reused as dilution water.
A scalping cyclone station located at the processing plant site will commence operation after the 1st
year of concentrator operation. The separated sand will be combined with the remainder of the
tailing feed from the concentrator and sent to the central cyclone station for subsequent cycloning at
the main cyclone station. The overflow from the scalping cyclone station will be used for deposition
from the upstream end of the facility as required for management of the reclaim water pond location.
Make-up water to the concentrator to compensate for the losses at the TSF will be conveyed from
Rio Chili via an 11.5 km long freshwater delivery pipeline. Prior to the start-up of the TSF, water
from Rio Chili will be pumped upstream of the Starter Dam to form a start-up water pond. The
elevation of the start-up water pond will be approximately 2431 m amsl.
2.2

SUMMARY OF TSF OPERATIONS

This section provides information on the TSF operations, and the TSF inspection and
documentation procedures. The TSF Operations Manual (Volume 9) describes in detail the
procedures for inspecting and documenting TSF operations for safe and responsible disposal and
storage of tailing materials. Section 3 of this EMP contains inspection procedures for inspecting the
environmental management aspects of the TSF. In practice, conducting inspections of the TSF to

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assess both operational and environmental performance requirements should be implemented as one
program.
2.2.1 Normal Operations
Raising the TSF embankment will be a continual process throughout the operational life of the TSF
and is considered a normal operating practice. Tailing deposition will be conducted on a 24-hour per
day 7-day per week basis. Brief periods of inactivity may occur from time to time due to holidays or
scheduled equipment maintenance activities.
The general process for raising the embankment will involve deposition of underflow, allowing it to
drain, and compacting it according to the specifications. The tailing overflow and occasionally whole
tailing will be discharged into the impoundment. The time to construct a complete lift (0.3m) along
the entire embankment length will vary from a few days during initial TSF operations to several
weeks near the end of TSF operations. The crest of the tailing embankment is to be maintained a
minimum of 3m above the impounded tailing slimes (cyclone overflow) located upstream of the
embankment crest.
2.2.2 Periods of Operations Cessation
The TSF could be subject to periods of temporary operations cessation. These periods of operations
cessation could be due to prolonged unscheduled maintenance of mineral processing facilities or
poor market conditions. It is not possible to predict the length of these periods of inactivity, but in
general, such periods can last from weeks to months.
During these periods of inactivity, the environmental monitoring and mitigation program described
in this EMP will be carried out as if the TSF was operating. Many of the potential environmental
issues that could develop during normal operations can also develop during periods of temporary
cessation. Furthermore, issues that may not develop during normal operations could develop during
prolonged periods of inactivity. Thus, the monitoring and mitigation provisions of the EMP apply
regardless if the TSF is in operation or is temporarily inactive.

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3.0

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

The following section describes the environmental monitoring and mitigation measures that will be
implemented for the various environmental resource areas (air, surface water, groundwater, soils,
landscape, fauna, flora, etc.). These monitoring and mitigation efforts apply during the operations
phase of the TSF only. A tabular summary of the monitoring and mitigation measures is contained in
Table 1.
The monitoring and mitigation measures and related activities are based on the EIA (Knight Pisold,
2004a) and the PSP Environmental and Social Management Plan (SMCV, 2005b). These measures
and related activities also consider that environmental management of the TSF during potential
periods of temporary cessation may require interim mitigation measures. Such measures may be
implemented in the form of interim or concurrent reclamation of disturbed areas. With respect to
concurrent reclamation practices, the Closure Plan for Unidad de Produccin Cerro Verde (MWH,
2006a) assumes that concurrent reclamation will be implemented where feasible. As a provision of
the EMP, concurrent reclamation should be implemented at permanently inactive disturbed areas
during the operations phase of the TSF. Such concurrent reclamation should be conducted in a
manner consistent with the concepts presented in the closure plan.
3.1

EMP OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES

As was stated in Section 1.5.2, the EMP consists of three main parts: environmental monitoring plan,
environmental mitigation program, and emergency and contingency plan. The objectives and scope
of these components are described in the following sections.
3.1.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan
The monitoring plan described in this EMP only applies to the operations phase of the TSF and may
require revisions after the first one to two years of TSF operations. At the end of this interim period,
the monitoring measures may be evaluated in light of the initial results obtained, or the need for
additional data. Information obtained from the monitoring program will, if necessary, be used to
make adjustments in environmental mitigation (such as tailing dust control) measures and TSF
operation procedures in order to minimize and effectively mitigate adverse environmental impacts.
The specific objectives of the monitoring program are the following:

Identify the actual effects caused by emissions and TSF operations by measuring the respective
environmental aspects (i.e., air, water, soil, etc.).

Verify that the designed mitigation measures are adequate.

Verify compliance with applicable environmental standards.

Provide early detection of unforeseen and undesired effects so that mitigation measures can be
implemented in a timely manner.

The environmental monitoring that will be instituted at the TSF during operations, includes:

Conducting periodic field surveys and inspections of the area surrounding the TSF.

Conducting field surveys and inspections of soils surrounding the TSF area.

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Maintaining and operating air quality monitoring stations; and field inspections of the area
surrounding the TSF.

Collecting and analyzing water samples from groundwater monitoring wells; conducting water
elevation readings from piezometers; conducting visual survey of the embankment toe and
seepage collection sump area.

Conducting animal surveys of the area surrounding the TSF to characterize wildlife use and
habitat impact, and to evaluate if habitat improvements should be implemented elsewhere in the
area.

This EMP is a subset of the site-wide environmental management scheme that is described in the
ESMP. The ESMP contains a broader scope of monitoring and mitigation requirements that are
external of those presented in this EMP. It is critical to coordinate the monitoring and mitigation
requirements of this EMP with the site-wide ESMP in order to achieve consistent environmental
protection.
3.1.2 Environmental Mitigation Program
The primary objective of the environmental mitigation program is to avoid, reduce, or eliminate, when
feasible, the identified environmental impacts through operational planning, engineering design and
controls, or through the implementation of newly identified mitigation measures. Mitigation should
not necessarily be limited to the mitigation measures contained in this EMP. Rather, it is possible that
more effective site-specific measures or Best Management Practices may be identified by SMCV and
implemented. Periodic updates of this EMP will incorporate any additional measures. The
environmental mitigation program that will be instituted at the TSF during operations, when
necessary, could include:

Applying water (using sprinkler system) to the tailing embankment and application of water or
dust suppressants to the TSF access roads to minimize airborne dust.

Relocating and transplanting vegetation if tailing will inundate significant numbers of plants.

Maintaining and improving animal habitats (guanaco) in other undisturbed areas at SMCV;
utilizing methods for discouraging animals from foraging in the TSF area.

3.1.3 Emergency Response and Contingency Plan


The emergency response and contingency component of this EMP is intended to effectively react to
unforeseen engineered system failures that could occur. The purpose of effective emergency response
is to preserve the integrity of the primary TSF systems, control any releases, and to prevent or
minimize the environmental consequences associated with a potential system failure. The primary
TSF systems include the embankment, reclaim barge and pipeline, tailing delivery and distribution
pipelines, tailing scalping station, cyclone station, and seepage collection system/pump station. While
the likelihood of a potential failure is low, effective response to a system failure will minimize damage
to the TSF, preserve its operational integrity, and minimize or prevent environmental consequences.

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INSPECTIONS AND REPORTING

As required in the TSF Operations Manual (MWH, 2006c), routine inspections of the TSF will be
conducted by TSF operators. These inspections will be conducted during normal operations and after
extreme natural events such as storms or earthquakes.
During normal operations, TSF operators will observe the facility on an around-the-clock basis. The
operators will inspect the deposition system, beach area, embankment, impoundment area, seepage
collection system, cyclone station, scalping cyclone station, reclaim water pond system, and tailing
delivery works once during each shift. The purpose of these inspections is to identify malfunctioning
equipment, improper tailing deposition, and damage to the TSF, if any.
During these routine inspections, visual observations for purposes of the EMP will also be conducted.
The TSF operators will note and record environmental problems such as tailing dust emissions,
observed seepage, visual evidence of environmental damage to flora and fauna, surface erosion, and
visual changes to the local landscape and topography.
The results of the inspections above will be documented in two ways. The TSF operators will record
field notes while conducting the inspections. From the field notes, the environmental management
observations will be compiled and transferred to the inspection results forms contained in this EMP.
These completed inspection forms will be disseminated to the SMCV operations managers including
the SMCV Environmental Manager. TSF operations inspection results will also be disseminated to
these individuals as required in the TSF Operations Manual.
3.3

MONITORING PLAN AND MITIGATION MEASURES

The following information describes the environmental mitigation measures and monitoring program
that will be implemented for the environmental resource areas during TSF operations. A summary of
the mitigation measures and monitoring program is presented in Table 1.
3.3.1 Topography and Landscape
3.3.1.1

Impacts on Topography and Landscape

The topographic impacts that could be caused by normal operation of the TSF with respect to surface
topography and landscape are associated with the alteration of the natural ground surface. The
alteration of the natural ground surface means that the inundated portion of Quebrada Enlozada
would be transformed into a raised terrace of tailing.
3.3.1.2

Mitigation Measures

No specific mitigation measures are considered necessary. It would be verified throughout the life of
the facility that the surface elevations of the impoundment and the embankment crest height do not
exceed the physical limits specified in the EIA and the TSF design documents.
3.3.1.3

Monitoring

Monitoring of topography and landscape around the TSF during operations will include:

Level survey measurements of the impoundment and the embankment slope during TSF
operations and during periods of temporary operations cessation.

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Visual inspection to verify that tailing deposition is not occurring outside of the authorized
deposition limits and that tailing erosion is not migrating outside of the TSF boundary.

Monitor the elevation and rate of rise of the tailing surface using staff gauges installed around the
perimeter of the impoundment.

Monitoring Stations
Survey control will be set up at two locations. The first control point will be set up on natural
topography that is located immediately east of the tailing cyclone station (Figure 2). The purpose of
this control point will be to collect survey data for the TSF beach area and the embankment crest.
The control point will be positioned upgradient of the tailing deposition level. As tailing deposition
levels increase, the control point will need to be moved further upgradient on natural ground.
The second control point will be set up on natural topography east of the right groin of the
embankment face (Figure 2). The purpose of this control point will be to collect survey data for the
embankment face. As the embankment face increases in size, the control point will need to be moved
further upgradient on natural ground.
Stakes or other visual targets identifying the ultimate limits of the TSF could be identified and the
limits of the facility as it rises could be visually checked against them.
Visual Inspections
The visual inspections will be conducted from multiple points on the access road that encircles the
TSF.
Methodology
All surveying will be performed with on-site surveying equipment.
coordinates will be obtained at each survey point.

Three-dimensional data

Monitoring Frequency
Surveying will be performed once every 6 months (March and September). Visual inspections will be
performed once a month.
Reporting Procedure and Forms
Survey data will be downloaded from the surveying instrument into an SMCV computer system. The
computer will contain a pre-developed base mapping. Current survey data will be printed on the base
map. The base map will show the survey point I.D., elevations for each survey point measured, and
date and time of survey.
The survey personnel to the Environmental Superintendent, the Tailing Superintendent and the
SMCV Environmental Manager will report survey results. No external reporting of the survey data
will be conducted.
The staff gauge monitoring results will be included in the weekly TSF reports prepared by the Tailing
Superintendent.

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3.3.2 Air Quality


Air quality monitoring will address air quality in the vicinity of the TSF including upwind and
downwind locations. The focus of this section is evaluation and mitigation of potential impacts of the
TSF on the quality of the air in the vicinity of the TSF. The potential effects of the dust generated by
the TSF on the TSF operators and the mine personnel health and safety, and the specified safety
precautions are discussed in Section 6.0 Safety and Security of the Operations Manual.
3.3.2.1

Impacts on Air Quality

Air quality impacts during normal TSF operations are related to dust emissions from the TSF access
roads, beach area, and embankment face. The tendency of these areas to generate airborne dust will
be largely controlled by several factors including mine production rates, local weather conditions, and
day-to-day tailing deposition strategies. If the Cerro Verde site is subjected to periods of temporary
cessation of operations, dust control will be particularly important because the TSF embankment and
beach area will be prone to additional drying. Beach areas and embankment face areas that have not
recently received fresh tailing slurry will dewater rapidly and will be dust prone. If mitigation
measures are not implemented, then dust generation during periods of dry weather and high wind
conditions will be likely. Secondly, seasonal weather conditions (temperature and precipitation) will
affect the drying rate of the tailing. It is expected that dust control will be required as needed on a
year-round basis.
Dust emissions from these areas will consist of coarse and fine particulate dust because the tailing
slurry that is delivered to the TSF from the mineral process consists of both coarse and fine tailing
particles. Both dust fractions can impact the environment and must be effectively managed. The
finer (respirable) dust fraction also represents a human health hazard with respect to silica, lead,
arsenic and copper.
3.3.2.2

Mitigation Measures

The decision-making and methods for implementing dust control will be made by the Tailing
Superintendent. The TSF shift managers will be responsible for implementing the appropriate dust
control techniques.
Access Roads
Dust control will be achieved by applying water or a solution of non-hazardous dust suppressant that
will be purchased by SMCV. Water would be applied on a routine basis, as needed. A water/dust
suppressant solution would be prepared from a concentrate and applied, as needed, to the TSF access
roads. Additional applications of water or solution will be required if vehicles traveling on the roads
are observed causing visible dust emissions. The Tailing Superintendent will provide mixing
instructions for preparing the water/dust suppressant solution.
The roads that will receive water or solution applications include the access road that runs from the
concentrator area and along the tailing delivery pipeline and the road that runs from the concentrator
area and along the western boundary to the tailing embankment.
TSF Impoundment and Embankment
Three main mitigation measures for dust control are identified:

Selective tailing deposition in dry or dust-prone areas (if the deposition does not adversely impact
the embankment construction plan and schedule and the management of the reclaim water pond).
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Use of sprinkler systems on the tailing embankment. Due to the high rate of rise of the
embankment and impoundment within the first couple of years of the operation of the TSF, and
the short deposition cycle time (time between re-wetting an area), dust generation would be an
unlikely event. When the embankment and impoundment areas expand and the deposition cycle
time increases, sprinkler systems will be installed and operated as needed. The Tailing
Superintendent will make decisions on the use of the sprinkler system.

An alternative option for dust control is the application of a dust suppressant solution as
suggested as a dust control alternative for the access roads. This measure may be appropriate to
use only during extensive periods of inactivity.

3.3.2.3

Monitoring

The information below describes the monitoring parameters that will be measured, location and
names of the monitoring stations, methodology for collecting air quality samples, sample collection
frequency, and the forms that will be used for documenting monitoring results. The Environmental
Superintendent will be responsible for conducting the air quality monitoring.
Monitoring Parameters
The following parameters will be monitored:

Respirable dust (PM10)


Total suspended particulates (TSP)
Concentration of metals in PM10 (lead, arsenic, copper)

Monitoring Stations
Several air quality monitoring stations will comprise the monitoring program for the TSF. The
locations of the stations are shown in Figure 2. The stations include:

Cerro Verde South Station (upwind sample)


Cerro Verde North Station (emissions monitoring station)
TSF Station (emissions monitoring station)
Jacobo Hunter Station (downwind sample)
PJ Cerro Verde Station
Tiabaya Station

Methodology
The purpose of the SMCV air quality monitoring stations is to determine air quality on a site-wide
basis. Site-wide monitoring requirements are described in the ESMP. The monitoring stations that
will be needed for monitoring air quality with respect to the TSF during operations are described
below.
Automated high-volume samplers will be used at each station. The samplers will be installed on the
top of a 5-meter (or equivalent) tower so that sample collection is not biased by surface dust. The
high-volume samplers measure both TSP and PM10 dust, and samples will be collected over
continuous 24-hour periods that will be programmed into the samplers. The MEM Protocol for Air
Quality and Emissions Monitoring (MEM, 1994a) will be followed. The following parameters will be
evaluated:
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PM10 will be measured at all monitoring stations.

Total Suspended Particulates will be measured at all monitoring stations.

Arsenic, lead, and copper concentrations in PM10 will also be measured at the Cerro Verde South,
Cerro Verde North, TSF, and Jacobo Hunter monitoring stations.

PM10 and TSP concentrations will be calculated as described in the Air Quality Monitoring
Protocol (Appendix 1).

Monitoring Frequency

PM10 and TSP samples will be collected and analyzed every three days during TSF operations.

Arsenic, lead, and copper concentrations will be analyzed from the PM10 samples once per month
during TSF operations.

When this EMP is updated (annually), a decision will be made by the SMCV Environmental Manager
if the monitoring station locations, monitoring frequencies, sampling methodology, and analytical
methods should be modified to better monitor current operations.
Reporting Procedure and Forms
The results of each monitoring event will be compiled by the Environmental Superintendent and
reported on the report form contained in Appendix 1. The filter paper I.D. number, dust net weight,
sampled air volume, and calculated dust concentrations measured above will be entered on the form
together with the sampling date and time, sampling location, and name of technician performing the
sampling. The form contained in Appendix 1 will be used for reporting the metal concentrations.
To verify compliance, monitoring data will be compared with applicable national standards or specific
regulations established in the Cerro Verde PSP ESMP. In the case of air quality monitoring, stations
in communities should comply with national air quality standards; for the TSF and North stations
MEM air effluent limits should be considered.
The completed reports will be sent to the SMCV Environmental Manager within one week of
obtaining the measurements. The SMCV Environmental Manager will review the monitoring results
and communicate his interpretation of the results, as required, with the Tailing Superintendent and
SMCV managers. The Environmental Superintendent will input the results into the SMCV
environmental monitoring database. The SMCV Environmental Manager will submit the results to
the Peruvian Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) on a quarterly basis as described in the ESMP and
the results will be part of the site-wide reporting submittal. The SMCV Environmental Manager will
interact with MEM as required to discuss the submittal.
3.3.3 Surface Water
There are no natural permanent water bodies or perennial streams at the SMCV site. A potential
stormwater receiving water body is the Rio Chili, located approximately 8 km downstream of the TSF.
The normally dry Quebrada Enlozada, where the TSF is located, is tributary to the Rio Chili.
The TSF is designed to operate according to a zero-discharge concept. Under normal operations, the
system of drains at the base of the embankment will collect and deliver embankment seepage to the
seepage collection sump. The collected seepage will be pumped back to the TSF reclaim water pond
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or to the cyclone station for reuse. Stormwater runoff from the tailing embankment will also be
collected in the seepage collection sump and pumped back to the cyclone station or to the reclaim
water pond. Stormwater runoff from the impoundment catchment area will be collected at the
reclaim water pond and pumped back to the concentrator plant or the cyclone station for reuse.
3.3.3.1

Impacts on Surface Waters

It is unlikely that there will be any surface water discharges from the TSF to the environment. The
overall potential impact of the TSF on the local receiving streams is considered to be low. The
surface water monitoring program is intended to provide confirming evidence that the TSFs
environmental protection features are performing as designed.
3.3.3.2

Mitigation Measures

Based on the impact analysis summary above, the identification and implementation of mitigation
measures such as water treatment are not envisioned at this time. In the unlikely event that
subsequent surface water impacts are identified that are attributable to the TSF, this EMP should be
updated to describe the impacts as well as corresponding monitoring and mitigation requirements.
Regarding erosion and sediment control, it is likely that such measures may be required following
large storm events. If this is the case, mitigation measures described in Table 2 and in the Erosion
and Sediment Control Plan (MWH, 2005c) must be implemented. In the Erosion and Sediment
Control Plan, specific Best Management Practices (BMP) are described that can be taken off the
shelf and readily applied in the TSF area. The purpose of the BMPs is to control erosion problems
as they occur.
3.3.3.3

Monitoring

The surface water monitoring will generally comprise inspection of the embankment, impoundment
and the limestone contact area for evidence of seepage. If seepage is observed, water samples will be
collected and analyzed. Mitigation measures will be designed based on the results of the water quality
testing. The most likely measures will include construction of a sump or drains in the location of the
seepage for collecting and pump back of the seepage. In the unlikely event of a water discharge from
the seepage collection sump, reclaim water pond or spills from return water pipelines, water samples
will be collected and analyzed to evaluate the environmental impact of the spill and to design
mitigation measures. Surface water samples may be taken from runoff downstream of the seepage
collection sump following a heavy storm to evaluate potential impact of the TSF. Since the local
quebradas are dry, no routine surface water samples will be collected.
Monitoring Parameters
Surface water samples that are collected as needed will be analyzed for the parameters below. This
analytical regime is consistent with the analytical requirements contained in the ESMP and the EIA
(Section 3.5.3) for the PSP.

Temperature
pH
Electrical conductivity
Approximate flow rate
Total dissolved solids (TDS)
Total Solids (TS)
Total Suspended Solids (TSS)
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Dissolved oxygen
Acidity
Alkalinity
Total metals (aluminum, arsenic, calcium, cobalt, copper, chromium, iron, magnesium,
manganese, molybdenum, lead, and zinc)
Nitrates
Bicarbonates and carbonates
Chloride
Sulfates

Monitoring Stations
No routine surface water quality monitoring points have been identified. Surface water quality
monitoring locations, if any, will be identified during TSF operations and the duration of time that
they will be utilized will be determined at that time.
Methodology
If water samples need to be collected, Table 1 and Appendix 2 summarize the field data to be
recorded, sample container type (i.e., plastic vs. glass), sample volume required, sample preservation
method, sample labeling format, allowable holding time prior to analysis, and analytical regime. These
efforts are based on the water quality monitoring protocol set forth by MEM (MEM, 1994b). The
monitoring protocol is included as Appendix 2 to this EMP for reference. It is a requirement that
surface water monitoring be conducted according to this protocol. Chain-of-Custody forms will be
required when water samples are sent off-site for analysis.
The Environmental Superintendent in collaboration with the SMCV Environmental Manager will
train the TSF operators as to the correct sampling, preservation, and analytical procedures that must
be followed. The Environmental Superintendent will be responsible for all phases of monitoring
including coordination with the laboratory and processing analytical results.
Monitoring Frequencies
No specific monitoring frequency has been defined at present. The monitoring frequency will depend
on the occurrence of runoff downstream of the TSF or the identification of unexpected seepages
proximate to the TSF.
Reporting Procedure and Forms
The Environmental Superintendent will compile the results of surface water monitoring that may be
conducted. The Environmental Superintendent will input the results into the SMCV environmental
monitoring database, review the monitoring results and communicate his interpretation of the results,
as required, to the Tailing Superintendent and the SMCV Environmental Manager. The SMCV
Environmental Manager will include the results, as required, in the regular site-wide reporting
submittals to the MEM. The SMCV Environmental Manager will interact with MEM to discuss the
submittal if necessary.
3.3.4 Groundwater
The TSF is located in the Quebrada Enlozada. Potential effects of the TSF on the regional
groundwater system may extend to the adjacent drainages including the Quebrada Tinajones, La
Quebradita and the Cerro Verde and Santa Rosa pit areas (Figure 2).
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Impacts on Groundwater

Since the TSF is designed according to a zero discharge concept, measures designed to limit potential
impacts of the TSF on the groundwater have been constructed. These include a cutoff trench beneath
the starter dam and a grout curtain/HDPE liner at the seepage collection sump in Quebrada
Enlozada.
Areas of potential seepage that have been identified are the limestone contact and the West Saddle in
Quebrada Tinajones, and the La Quebradita east of the TSF (Figure 2). Based on the results of the
groundwater modeling studies (MWH, 2006b), groundwater flow from the TSF towards the La
Quebradita and the Quebrada Tinajones may occur after about 15 years from the start of the
operations.
3.3.4.2

Mitigation Measures

The embankment seepage will be intercepted by a network of finger and blanket drains that will be
constructed within the embankment footprint. Seepage that may bypass the drain system is expected
to flow within the alluvium and will be collected at the seepage collection sump and then pumped
back to the TSF reclaim water pond or to the cyclone station for reuse. The potential impact on the
groundwater in Quebrada Enlozada is considered negligible. However, if seepage is detected in the
monitoring wells downstream of the seepage collection sump, one or more of the four pumps in
monitoring wells MW-01 through MW-05 will be activated and impacted groundwater will be pumped
to the seepage collection sump.
It is expected that the potential impacts on the groundwater in the La Quebradita and Quebrada
Tinajones would be negligible during the early years of operation of the TSF. Limited seepage through
the limestone or through the flank ridges could potentially be expected after about 10 to 15 years of
operation. Depending on the results of the groundwater monitoring, and the planned geotechnical
investigations in the area of the West Saddle, mitigation measures will be designed as appropriate at a
later stage.
3.3.4.3

Monitoring

The groundwater monitoring program covers the Quebrada Enlozada, Quebrada Tinajones and the
La Quebradita. The analytical regime for water samples that will be withdrawn from the currently
existing and new wells includes a suite of chemical and physical parameters. The purpose of the
monitoring is to demonstrate whether the groundwater is being impacted by the TSF. There is a
possibility that the analytical regime would be modified (reduced or expanded) depending on the
results of the initial monitoring. Future revisions to this EMP will reflect these changes.
Monitoring Parameters
Groundwater samples that are collected as a part of this monitoring program will be analyzed for the
parameters below. This analytical regime is consistent with the analytical requirements contained in
the site-wide ESMP and the EIA (Section 7.2.1.4) for the PSP. The Environmental Superintendent
will be responsible for determining if any monitoring changes are required.

Temperature
pH
Electrical conductivity
Total dissolved solids (TDS)
Depth to water table
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Dissolved oxygen
Acidity
Alkalinity
Total Solids (TS)
Total Suspended Solids (TSS)
Total metals (aluminum, arsenic, cobalt, copper, iron, magnesium, molybdenum, lead, and zinc)
Chloride
Sulfates

Monitoring Stations
The existing and proposed groundwater monitoring stations are shown in Figure 2. The monitoring
stations in Quebrada Enlozada include:

Monitoring wells MAS-25 (well depth - 62.12 m) and MAS-26 (well depth - 62.02 m) located in
the Quebrada Enlozada downstream of the TSF seepage collection sump (monitor groundwater
levels and quality in the proximity of the TSF project area).

Monitoring well MAS-31 (well depth - 130.0 m), located further downstream of the TSF in the
Quebrada Enlozada (monitors groundwater to verify groundwater quality downstream of the TSF
project area).

Five Monitoring wells (MW-01, MW-02, MW-03, MW-04 and MW-05) will be located
immediately downstream of the seepage collection sump. The purpose of the wells is to detect
seepage that may bypass the seepage collection sump and grout curtain. Four of the wells are
equipped with pumps to pump detected seepage back to the seepage collection sump, if
necessary.

The groundwater monitoring stations in Quebrada Tinajones include:

Monitoring well MAS-27 (well depth - 104.87 m) located in the Quebrada Tinajones, downstream
of the West Saddle area (the most western reach of the ultimate impoundment). The purpose of
the well is to detect potential impact of the impoundment to the groundwater in the Quebrada
Tinajones.

Monitoring well MAS-30 (well depth 130.0 m) located the Quebrada Tinajones, upstream of the
TSF.

Two to four new monitoring wells will be installed at a later stage (up to 15 years after the start of
TSF operations). One well is planned to be installed on the ridge of the West Saddle (MAS-41).
Additional wells may be installed in the bottom of the drainage downstream of the West Saddle
and/or in the area of the limestone contact downstream of the tailing embankment.

Currently, there are no monitoring wells in the La Quebradita. However, proposed monitoring wells
will be installed within five years after the start of the TSF operations to establish baseline
groundwater quality values. The proposed monitoring wells in the La Quebradita include:

One monitoring well (MAS-39) will be located on the ridge between Quebrada Enlozada and the
La Quebradita. The purpose of the well will be an early detection of potential seepage from the
TSF.
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One monitoring well (MAS-40) will be located in the bottom of the valley in the La Quebradita.
The purpose of the well will be to detect a potential rise in the groundwater due to the effect of
the TSF.

Sampling and analytical efforts must be coordinated with the other SMCV departments to avoid
duplicate sampling and analyses.
Methodology
Table 1 and Appendix 3 show where and when groundwater samples are to be taken, field data to be
recorded, sample container type (i.e., plastic vs. glass), sample volume required, sample preservation
method, sample labeling format, allowable holding time prior to analysis, and analytical regime. These
efforts are based on the water quality monitoring protocol set forth by MEM (MEM, 1994b). It is a
requirement that groundwater monitoring be conducted according to this protocol. The monitoring
protocol is included as Appendix 3 to this EMP for reference. Chain-of-Custody forms will be
required when water samples are sent off-site for analysis.
The Environmental Superintendent in collaboration with the Tailing Superintendent will train the
personnel as to the correct sampling, preservation, and analytical procedures that must be followed.
The Environmental Superintendent will be responsible for all phases of monitoring including
coordination with the laboratory and processing analytical results.
3.3.4.4

Monitoring Frequency

All monitoring stations will be monitored monthly for the complete parameter list included above.
The specified monitoring frequency may change on the discretion of the Environmental
Superintendent depending on the obtained monitoring results.
Reporting Procedure and Forms
The results of each round of monthly groundwater monitoring will be compiled by the TSF personnel
trained in the monitoring procedures and reported on the report form contained in Appendix 3. The
sample I.D. number, sample date and time, sampling location, and field data will be provided on the
form.
To identify deviations that could be interpreted as an environmental impact, monitoring data will be
compared with the applicable limits and with established statistical criteria for evaluating if values
correspond to a natural variability.
The completed reports will be sent to the SMCV Environmental Manager by the end of the following
month. This lag in reporting the results will be due to laboratory turn-around time required for
analyzing the collected water samples. The Environmental Superintendent will review the monitoring
results and communicate the interpretation of the results to the Tailing Superintendent and SMCV
managers, as necessary. The Environmental Superintendent will input the results into the SMCV
groundwater monitoring database. The SMCV Environmental Manager will submit the results to the
Peruvian Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) on a quarterly basis and the results will be part of the
site-wide reporting submittal. The SMCV Environmental Manager will interact with MEM as
required to discuss the submittal.

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3.3.5 Soils
Soils that would potentially be affected by the TSF operations include soils that will be buried within
the TSF footprint, and soils that are located downgradient of the TSF, which could be affected by
seepage, surface runoff, or dust accumulation.
3.3.5.1

Impacts on Soils

Soil is defined as the soil layer that supports vegetation growth and wildlife. Previous soil
characterization studies have been performed at the TSF site. The results of these studies concluded
that most of the soils in the TSF area are classified as very deficient soils that cannot support
agriculture. Because the soils lack the capacity to support agriculture, the soils are considered
conducive to supporting non-agricultural uses. The impacts and monitoring information below
present soil resources in the context of soil loss and soil quality.
The primary impact on the soils is related to soil loss as a result of the gradual inundation of soil
caused by the tailing deposition in the TSF. The local soils may also be affected by potential seepage
from the TSF. If seepage water flows through the soils, the soils may absorb metals and dissolved
solids thus altering their chemistry. There is also potential that spillages of tailing or process water
may occur during the operations due to pipeline breakdowns. However, these spillages would not
significantly affect the local soils due to the relatively low volumes of tailing that would be involved
and because flows from such spills would likely be contained within the TSF.
3.3.5.2

Mitigation Measures

Because the local soils in the TSF project area are of poor quality, there are no plans for recovering
available soils for future reclamation programs before the soils are buried by tailing. Similarly, there is
no requirement for verifying that the quality of the soils in the vicinity of the TSF (soils that will not
be buried by tailing) will remain unchanged during operations of the TSF. Therefore, the proposed
mitigation measures are intended to address emergency response situations that could occur during
operation of the TSF.
In the event of a tailing spill due to a failure of the tailing delivery system, the spill would likely be
contained within the TSF. In such case no specific mitigation measures would be required.
3.3.5.3

Monitoring

The monitoring program consists of qualitative procedures for inspection of the tailing disposal
system and minimizing the risk of unexpected equipment breakdowns.
Monitoring Parameters
Visual inspections of the TSF area including tailing delivery system, cyclone station, reclaim water
pond pump-back system, seepage collection system and pump back, and embankment and
impoundment area. The purpose of the inspections will be to detect evidence of tailing or process
water spillage that could occur outside of the established area of the TSF.
Monitoring Stations
No dedicated monitoring stations will be required for soil monitoring. Rather, the entire TSF will be
reviewed during each inspection. A visual inspection of the facilities noted above (tailing delivery
system, cyclone station, reclaim water pond pump-back, seepage collection system and pump back,
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and the embankment area) will be conducted. No field sampling or laboratory analyses will be
required.
Methodology
The visual inspections described above will be performed using a utility vehicle. The purpose of the
inspections will be to identify soil damage, if any, which is being caused by abnormal TSF operations.
The route of travel will include the access roads, which surround the TSF (tailing pipeline corridor
between the concentrator and the cyclone station, access road across the embankment, access road
along the west perimeter and the access road to the seepage collection sump area). Field notes will be
recorded in a field log book that is dedicated to the tailing department. The field notes will reference
each of the facilities noted above along with observations that were made for each facility. If a tailing
spill is observed during the inspection, the situation will be reported to the Tailing Superintendent via
radio transmission. Notes related to the spill will also be recorded in the field log book. Notes to be
recorded include date, time, and location of the spill, surface area covered by the spill, an indication of
effects on local waterways, and the names of operations managers who were contacted regarding the
spill.
Sampling Technique
No field samples will be taken and no laboratory analysis is required.
Monitoring Frequency
The inspections will be conducted at least three times per day by the TSF operators.
Reporting Procedure and Forms
No formal report submittals will be prepared. The contents of the field log notebook above will not
be distributed. However, if a tailing spill situation is recorded, the recorded details will be
incorporated by the tailing department into an internal memorandum that will be distributed to the
Tailing Superintendent and the Environmental Superintendent. The environmental Superintendent
will report it to the SMCV Environmental Manager. The memorandum will also describe how the
spill site was cleaned, if cleaning is necessary. There is no strict procedure regarding the precise
format of the field notes or the memorandums. The results will be included with the sites annual
submittal to MEM, or as required.
3.3.6 Vegetation
Vegetation that may be affected by the TSF operations includes very sparse vegetation that is
scattered within the TSF ultimate tailing deposition footprint and vegetation that is located outside of
the TSF footprint. Vegetation that could be buried by tailing slurry or could be affected by windblown tailing is included in the impacts and monitoring information described below.
3.3.6.1

Impacts on Vegetation

The TSF footprint contains very sparse vegetation. The impact on vegetation is related to potential
loss of vegetation as a result of the inundation of the ground surface caused by the gradual deposition
of tailing in the TSF. Another potential effect of the TSF on the vegetation is related to tailing or
process water spillages that could occur outside of the TSF due to tailing delivery or return water
systems breakdowns. In addition, high wind conditions could cause dry tailing to be mobilized from
the TSF and deposited on downwind vegetation potentially causing vegetation damage.
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Mitigation Measures

Mitigation measures have been implemented in the vicinity of the mine to offset loss of vegetation
due to normal operation of the TSF. Details of the implemented plant propagation program are
presented in Section 3.6.3 of the ESMP (SMCV, 2005b). Mitigation generally involves the propagation
of key flora including Weberbauerocereus weberbaueri and Tecoma arequipensis (huarango arequipeno). The
propagation of these plants is encouraged because both plants are dominant species in the area, and
support important fauna species.
3.3.6.3

Monitoring

The vegetation monitoring program described in the ESMP will be performed. No additional
monitoring is envisioned.
3.3.7 Fauna
Over 31 species of birds, reptiles, and mammals have been identified at the PSP area. Many of these
species were found in the Quebrada Enlozada drainage. Previous field results were based on a fauna
survey conducted within the TSF boundary and along the Quebrada Enlozada downstream of the
seepage collection sump area. The Lama guanicoe species was also identified in the area.
3.3.7.1

Impacts on Fauna

With respect to the TSF, the primary impacts on fauna involve habitat loss and intervention, and
potential injury to guanacos that enter the TSF area. Determining the numbers and locations of
individual birds, reptiles, and mammals represents the primary method for evaluating impacts and the
effectiveness of mitigation measures. The information below describes the mitigation measures that
will be implemented by SMCV and the monitoring program that will be implemented to verify
mitigation measures effectiveness.
3.3.7.2

Mitigation Measures

Mitigation measures involve avoiding close human contact with the local fauna in the TSF area and
implementing a fauna management program. These measures will include the placement of warning
signs, safe vehicle driving, implementation of dissuasive measures (i.e., fencing or crossing guards,
etc.), and wildlife rescue. Specific mitigation measures have been developed for guanaco management
that focus on minimizing direct contact with the TSF systems. Additional measures include TSF
operator training in guanaco rescue in cases where guanaco become stranded in the TSF. TSF
personnel will chase guanacos away from the TSF, as necessary. Future studies designed to propagate
the guanaco species will be conducted. SMCV will continue to distribute water to the watering
containers used by guanaco.
3.3.7.3

Monitoring Measures

The purpose of the monitoring measures is to demonstrate that the mitigation measures remain
effective. The monitoring measures should also show that fauna have adjusted to the habitat loss
associated with the gradual filling of the TSF with tailing. The monitoring program that is envisioned
represents a component of the overall site-wide fauna monitoring program. Coordination of fauna
monitoring in the vicinity of the TSF should be coordinated with fauna monitoring being performed
in association with the entire PSP.

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Monitoring Parameters
The monitoring parameters are focused on both a qualitative and quantitative analysis of fauna.
Qualitative analysis of reptiles and mammals will be performed to establish a confirmed presence of
these species. A quantitative analysis of birds will be performed to establish the overall abundance
(estimated total numbers) of these species. A quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the guanaco
and their use of the local habitat in and around the TSF will be performed.
Monitoring Stations
The fauna monitoring procedures described in the ESMP will be followed. The monitoring will be
performed using the view points located south of the mine, as identified in the ESMP (Section 3.7.3).
Methodology
An SMCV biologist, or alternatively, an external wildlife biologist will be required for conducting the
view point surveys. The biologists will develop and seek approval from SMCV of the methodology
that will be implemented. Therefore, the methodology is only generally described herein. During
each survey, the view point survey biologist will make one visit to each view point. The information
below generally describes how the transect surveys will be performed.
Evaluation of Mammals and Reptiles
The biologist will also visually monitor for evidence of other mammals and reptiles from the view
points and along transects. This will be accomplished by direct visual observation of the animals. For
certain mammals such as puma and fox, the total number of individuals observed will also be
recorded in the field notes.
Monitoring Frequency
The surveys above will be conducted twice per year during the wet season (February) and dry season
(June). The purpose of conducting the wildlife surveys twice per year is to monitor for seasonal
variations in animal abundance. Semi-annual surveys will be conducted during the first two years of
TSF operations. If the surveys detect no seasonal variations, SMCV may elect to reduce the fauna
surveys to once per year (February). The determination of no seasonal variation will be provided by
the field biologist or outside consultants.
Reporting Procedure and Forms
The field observation forms that will be required for completing the field transect surveys will be
provided by the outside consultant who will perform the surveys. The consultant will submit a report
to the Environmental Superintendent who will review the final results. Based on the recommendation
of the consultant, the supervisor will make the determination to reduce the fauna surveys to once per
year or maintain the semi-annual schedule. The Environmental Superintendent will verbally inform
SMCV managers of the results. The results will be included with the sites annual submittal to MEM.
3.3.8 Archaeological Resources
As part of the EIA for the Primary Sulfide Project, several archaeological surveys were conducted in
the Quebradas Enlozada and Tinajones (Knight Pisold, 2004a). The purpose of the surveys was to
characterize the extent and significance of the local archaeological resources and to develop and
implement a plan for recovering the resources prior to development of the PSP. Three archaeological
sites were identified by the field consultants and these sites were located immediately east of the
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proposed starter dam location. As of this date, all significant archaeological artifacts have been
recovered from the sites and provided to the National Institute of Culture (INC). Since the recovery
efforts were completed, no additional archaeological surveys have been conducted.
3.3.8.1

Impacts on Archaeological Resources

Because Certificates of Inexistence of Archaeological Remains (CIRAs) have already been issued by
the INC to SMCV for the resource recovery efforts described above, no impacts on archaeological
resources is foreseen.
3.3.8.2

Mitigation Measures

No mitigation measures will be required during operation of the TSF.


3.3.8.3

Monitoring

No monitoring of archaeological resources will be implemented during the operation of the TSF.
Therefore, no descriptions of monitoring parameters, monitoring stations, methodology, monitoring
frequency, and reporting procedures are described.
3.4

SCHEDULING OF ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITIES

A complete schedule of the monitoring activities above is presented in Table 1. Table 1 also
summarizes the monitoring requirements of this Environmental Management Plan by highlighting the
environmental areas that will be monitored at the TSF during operations including the specific
monitoring activities that are to be implemented. Table 1 also lists the monitoring stations that will be
involved, required monitoring methodologies, and monitoring frequencies.
3.5

ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

SMCV will maintain a full-time Environmental Superintendent who will have primary responsibility of
environmental management and monitoring at the PSP. He will function under the administrative
oversight of the SMCV Environmental Manager. The superintendent will be responsible for
implementing this EMP and ensuring that the project is complying with SMCV environmental
management programs. The superintendent will delegate responsibilities to the Environmental
Coordinator or other identified personnel who will assume responsibility for day-to-day
implementation of the EMP.
The Environmental Coordinator will interact with the Tailing Superintendent to coordinate the
implementation of the environmental monitoring program and the required mitigation measures. The
coordinator will be responsible for informing the Environmental Superintendent when environmental
problems develop. The superintendent will be responsible for interfacing with the other PSP
operations departments regarding environmental issues associated with the TSF. The Environmental
Superintendent will have the authority to recommend suspending TSF operations or a TSF subsystem if he believes that an environmental practice associated with the TSF may significantly affect
the environment, worker health, and the public.
The Environmental Superintendent will require the services of outside consultants for conducting
vegetation and fauna monitoring.

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ENVIRONMENTAL TRAINING PROGRAM

As part of the employee training program for the PSP, an environmental management training
program will be launched and periodically repeated. The environmental management program will
contain a module describing environmental management aspects associated with the TSF. The
module will consist of PowerPoint slides and verbal discussion that will be presented by the
Environmental Superintendent. He/she will update the module each year as new information related
to environmental protection at the TSF becomes available. The intent is to present the module to all
PSP personnel once per year.
3.6.1 Objectives
Key information will be contained in the module including:

Environmental Management Plan for TSF Operations


Relationship of the EMP to the overall PSP
Environment impacts associated with the TSF operations
Implementation of mitigation measures
Environmental monitoring program
Emergency response procedures

3.6.2 Program Development Mechanism


As part of the Tailing Departments daily briefings, a short environmental management discussion
associated with TSF operations will be provided by the Tailing Superintendent. An example of this
discussion could include improvements that could be made related to the dust control system.

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ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING DURING PERIODS OF


TEMPORARY OPERATIONS CESSATION

The possibility exists that PSP operations could be suspended from time to time due to fluctuations in
the demand for copper, major equipment breakdowns, or other problems. Should this be the case,
the PSP could be placed into a temporary care and maintenance situation. No mining or mineral
processing would take place for a period of time. However, during this period, environmental
monitoring must continue to be conducted because mitigation of the environmental impacts
associated with the TSF will continue to be required. The information below describes how the
monitoring will be performed.
4.1

MONITORING OVERVIEW

The monitoring program for the TSF recognizes that mitigation measures associated with the TSF
will be required during shutdown periods. This is because the environmental effects associated with
the TSF will exist during operations as well as during periods of inactivity. Therefore, the monitoring
program will be implemented with this in mind.
Operation of the pumps at the Seepage Collection Sump will be required during operations as well as
during temporary closure periods. Seepage discharge is expected to continue for an extended period
of time after cessation of active deposition, mainly due to drain down from the embankment and
impoundment. Monitoring the seepage flow and condition of the sump will be required at all times.
Dust control as it relates to the TSF embankment and beach area will also require careful monitoring
during both operations and temporary closure periods. These areas of the TSF may be more
susceptible to dust emissions during periods of temporary cessation. This is because the embankment
and beach area are normally moist due to active tailing deposition. During temporary closure periods,
these areas will dry out rapidly due to the arid climate. Supplemental to the application of water or
dust suppressants during temporary cessation periods, it may be necessary to apply a more durable
dust controlling surface such as waste rock to particularly dust-prone areas if the cessation period is
extended.
Visual monitoring must also consider that the reclaim water pond and pump barge must remain
operational during periods of operations as well as temporary cessation periods. During temporary
cessation periods, however, the cycling frequency of the pumps would be expected to reduce given
the arid climate together with the absence of freshly deposited tailing.
Visual monitoring will need to include other systems such as reclaim and seepage collection pipelines.
This verifies that the systems required for returning the water to the appropriate locations are intact
and operational.
Visual monitoring takes on added importance especially following significant storm and seismic
events. While this type of monitoring may or may not involve environmental sampling and analysis,
the visual monitoring will be essential for identifying any abnormal system conditions.
4.2

ALTERNATIVE MONITORING PLAN

During a period of a temporary operations cessation, the Environmental Superintendent will


determine if changes to the TSF monitoring program during this period are required and will
coordinate this recommendation to senior SMCV managers. It is expected that the monitoring
program will be conducted as indicated in Table 1 with minor modifications. For example, due to the
lack of tailing deposition, visual observations of the TSF systems for spills would not be required.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 28

5.0

CONCURRENT RECLAMATION PLAN

The purpose of this section is to describe environmental practices that may be implemented at the
TSF that support site-wide reclamation programs. During operations, certain areas of the TSF may
receive no further disturbance and final reclamation of these areas may be feasible during operations.
The Closure Plan for the PSP considers that concurrent reclamation of some disturbed areas may be
implemented (MWH, 2006a).
5.1

RELATIONSHIP OF THE EMP TO THE PSP CLOSURE PLAN

The EMP is linked to the PSP Closure Plan with respect to reclamation and Best Practices that could
be implemented during TSF operations. The mitigation measures that will be implemented during
operations may be modified to include permanent measures such as site re-grading, erosion controls,
and vegetation establishment. This is referred to as concurrent or progressive reclamation.
It will be the responsibility of the Environmental Superintendent to recommend when concurrent
reclamation opportunities exist and to coordinate with the Tailing Superintendent and SMCV senior
managers regarding any commitment to proceed with reclamation on selected areas of the TSF. The
Environmental Superintendent will keep abreast of the Closure Plan requirements by periodically
reviewing and updating the plan . The purpose of periodic reviews will be to remain cognizant of the
reclamation techniques that will be required in and around the TSF. This working knowledge will
assist the Environmental Superintendent in identifying potential concurrent reclamation
opportunities.
5.2

RECLAMATION OF PERMANENTLY INACTIVE AREAS

Concurrent reclamation, if any, will be implemented only on permanently inactive disturbed areas
around the TSF perimeter that will receive no further disturbance during the life of the PSP. Physical,
geochemical, and hydrological stabilization of such areas could be implemented as a part of the
concurrent reclamation.
Concurrent reclamation may also be implemented on active but unstable areas. The primary objective
of concurrent reclamation is to minimize erosion and maintain surface stability. Concurrent
reclamation will also minimize the effects of major storm events.
5.3

MONITORING PLAN

A basic monitoring program will be required for areas that have been concurrently reclaimed and
exceed 2 hectares in size. The monitoring measures summarized below represent a qualitative
procedure for assessing if TSF operations are affecting the established vegetation and whether selfsustaining vegetation is developing. The monitoring will be conducted in conjunction with the flora
monitoring program described in Section 3.3.6.
Monitoring Parameters
A qualitative visual inspection of any stabilized areas will be required. When the visual monitoring is
conducted, the field monitoring parameters will include date and time of day, weather conditions,
name of person conducting the monitoring, and a visual assessment of surface stability and integrity.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 29

Monitoring Stations
There will be no distinct monitoring stations with respect to concurrent reclamation. The qualitative
visual inspections will be chosen depending on the locations where concurrent reclamation is
implemented.
Methodology
The inspections methodology consists of visual inspection of the reclaimed areas and comparison of
the current with previously obtained results.
Monitoring Frequency
The monitoring frequency will depend on the nature and extent of the reclaimed areas. As a
minimum, one survey during the dry season and one during the wet season will be required.
Reporting Procedure and Forms
All observations made will be recorded and included in the monthly TSF inspection report (Section
8.4.1.3 of the Operations Manual). The results will be included with the sites annual submittal to
MEM.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

6.0

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 30

EMERGENCY RESPONSE ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

The purpose of this emergency response plan is to describe emergency response and environmental
monitoring measures that will be implemented at the TSF during its operations phase.
A Contingency and Emergency Plan (CEP) was developed as a part of the Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) for the Primary Sulfide Project (Knight Pisold, 2004a). The CEP provides a
strategy and specific actions to be executed in situations such as fires, seismic events, chemical spills,
concentrate spills, landslides, non-scheduled explosions, medical emergencies, and vehicle accidents.
SMCV maintains an Emergency Response Plan for the entire mine site that describes the management
measures that will be implemented with respect to situations such as fires, seismic events, chemical
spills, concentrate spills, landslides, non-scheduled explosions, medical emergencies, and vehicle
accidents. The plan is regularly updated and contains information on required communications and
procedures to be followed in a case of an emergency event.
6.1

GENERAL

The TSF Operations Manual (Volume 9) describes emergency procedures, lines of communication
and procedures to be followed during emergency situations that endanger people, property and the
environment. The EMP herein covers the monitoring procedures to be followed during an
emergency situation. This EMP includes environmental mitigation and monitoring measures that
should be implemented during these unforeseen events and how the monitoring results should be
disseminated to SMCV managers. Unforeseen events are defined as, but may not be limited to:

Extreme storm events (25-year, 24-hour (39.2 mm), or greater design storm events)

High-wind condition (sustained winds speeds greater than 40 kilometers/hour for a period
exceeding 8 hours)

Fires, seismic events, concentrator spills, landslides, explosions, vehicle accidents, sabotage, or
other events

Emergency situations can occur at any moment as a result of unforeseen causes. The consequences of
such events can involve damage to people, property, and the environment. The planning of the
prevention, identification, and response in the event of an emergency situation must be carried out in
advance in order to prevent environmental losses or minimize their effects when such emergencies
occur. Every emergency response plan of this nature includes comprehensive and recurrent training
of selected workers who would be in charge of executing specific emergency response functions.
These individuals must be trained in at least the following areas:

Prevention management
Emergency communications and management
Spill containment
Remediation of spills of hazardous substances
Evacuation and rescue of persons
Extinguishing surface fires
Provision of first aid
Taking air, water, vegetation and soil samples

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 31

The overall structure of an emergency response situation must be fully understood by the SMCV
personnel who were previously selected and trained to manage emergency situations. The
training program must clearly present the primary stages of an emergency response situation at the
TSF and how each stage should be handled. These stages in order of priority include:

6.2

Emergency Confirmation
Initial Assessment and Evacuations
Implement Monitoring Measures
Public and Government Notifications
Situation Stabilization
Exchange of Information
Primary Assessment
Maintain Communications
Implement Mitigation Measures
EMERGENCY RESPONSE ASSOCIATED WITH THE TSF

Table 2 presents the environmental monitoring and mitigation measures that would be implemented
during and following an unforeseen event affecting the TSF. As Table 2 shows, distinct failure modes
were identified that could potentially (however remote the possibility) occur.
The types of failure modes that could occur at the TSF are related to upsets of the tailing delivery and
reclaim water management systems or dust emissions from the embankment and impoundment areas.
In each of these cases, the environmental consequences would involve surface water, aquatic life,
soils, vegetation, and the local communities. Emergency responses should be implemented with this
in mind. It is not expected that the identified failure modes would affect groundwater or fauna.
Depending on the emergency situations that could arise, emergency response procedures would have
a different objective. For example, the emergency application of dust suppressants would be intended
to minimize environmental consequences, in this case, uncontrolled dust emissions. As another
example, effective emergency communications would be required to minimize impacts on the nearby
populations, to ensure all emergency personnel are consistently responding to an emergency, and to
inform government officials of the situation. Consistent collection of field data such as the estimated
flow rates of spilling solutions and quantifying the extent of a spill or damage is needed so that
expedited restoration of TSF system integrity can be achieved. Accurate field data collection also
assists in expedited spill cleanup and effective management of spill residues. Finally, effectively
planned and implemented emergency responses will facilitate response team safety, and minimize the
likelihood of accidents occurring during the response effort.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 32

7.0

REFERENCES

Bibby, C.J. & N.D. Burguess (1992). Birds Census Techniques. Acedemic Press, Cambridge.
Chapman, D.G & D. S Robson (1960). The analysis of a catch curve. Biometrics 16: 354-368.
Fluor Canada Ltd, 2005. Health, Safety, Environmental and Community Relations Manual.
Herpetofauna Groups of Britain and Ireland (1998). Evaluating local mitigation/translocation
programmes: Maintaining Best Practice and lawful standards. HGBI advisory notes for
Amphibian and Reptile Groups (ARGs). Pages 1 -8.
IUCN (1995). Guidelines for re-introductions. IUCN/SSC Re-introduction specialist group, Gland,
Switzerland.
Knight Pisold, Sociedad 2004a. Environmental Impact Assessment Primary Sulfide Project. Report
prepared for Sociodad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A. Report prepared by Knight Pisold
Consultores S.A.
Knight Pisold, 2004b. Responses to Observations by the Ministry of Energy and Mines / INRENA
/ Others to the Environmental Impact Assessment Primary Sulfide Project. Report prepared
for Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A. Report prepared by Knight Pisold Consultores S.A.
Lyndon, C (1999). Populatin and Habitat of the St. Lucia Whitptail Lizard (Cnemidophorus vanzoi) on
Praslin Island, St. Lucia (West Indies). Forestry Department, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry
& Fisheries, Castries, St Lucia West Indies, 1999.
Ministry of Agriculture, 1999. Ministry of Agriculture National Institute of Natural Resources.
Supreme Decree N 013-99-AG. Prohibition on the hunting, transport and/or commercial
exportation of wildlife species not authorized by INRENA, starting 2000.
Ministry of Energy and Mines, 1994a. Protocols for the monitoring of air quality and emissions
Mining Sub-sector. General Directorate of Environmental Affairs. Lima, Per.
Ministry of Energy and Mines, 1994b. Protocols for the monitoring of water quality Mining Subsector. General Directorate of Environmental Affairs. Lima, Per.
MWH 2005a. Cerro Verde Tailing Storage Facility Final Design, Volume 6, Water Balance Analysis,
MWH, Denver, Colorado USA.
MWH 2005b. Environmental Management Plan for ARD and Stormwater Management Cerro
Verde Tailing Facility, Technical memo prepared by MWH, Denver, Colorado USA.
MWH 2005c. Erosion Control and Sediment Control Plan, MWH, Denver, Colorado USA.
MWH 2006a. Closure Plan for Unidad de Produccin Cerro Verde, MWH Peru S.A., Lima, Peru.
MWH 2006b. Draft Finite Element Hydrogeologic Model of the Cerro Verde Tailing Storage Facility
(TSF), MWH Salt Lake City, Utah USA.
MWH 2006c. Cerro Verde Tailing Storage Facility Final Design, Volume 9, TSF Operations Manual,
MWH Denver, Colorado USA.
MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP x 33

NCC (1990). Review of NCC policy on species translocations in Great Britain. Paper to the Board of
Directors, BD P90 21.
Samson, F. y F. Knopf, 1996. Putting ecosystem into natural resource management. Journal of Soil
and Water Conservation 51: 288-292.
Snchez, O (2004). Conservacin y Manejo de Anfibios y Reptiles: Mtodos y Tcnicas. Estado de
Mxico, Mxico.
Social Capital Group, 2005. Community Relations and Social Development Plan. Documentprepared
for the Primary Sulfide Project by Social Capital Group.
SMCV, 2004. Environmental Management Procedures Manual. Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.
SMCV, 2005a. SMCV Environmental Policy, Primary Sulfide Project, Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde
S.A.A.
SMCV, 2005b. Environmental and Social Management Plan, Primary Sulfide Project, Sociedad Minera
Cerro Verde S.A.A.
SMCV, 2005c. Emergency Response and Contingency Plan. Document prepared for the Current
SMCV Operation by Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A
Tollestrup, K (1976). A standardized method of obtaining an index of densities of bluntnosed leopard
lizards, Crotaphytus silus. Unpub. Rpt U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento, CA. 11 pp +
Appendices.
Vogt R.C & R.L Hine (1982). Evaluation of techniques for Assessment of Amphibian and Reptile
Populations in Wisconsin. Pp. 201-217 in: Scott N. J. Jr (ed) Herpetological communities: a
Symposium of the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles and the Herpetologists
League. August 1977. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wildlife Research Report 13. Washington D.C
2139 pp.
World Bank & International Finance Corporation (IFC), 2004. The Equator Principles.

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

TSF Department

Every third day

Environmental
Superintendent

Dec

Monthly

Nov

Visual observation

TSF Perimeter

Oct

TSF Department

Sep

Twice per year

Aug

Conduct 3-D survey with a Total Station or equivalent survey instrument in


accordance with generally accepted survey protocols.

Cyclone Station Control Point; Embankment Face


Control Point

July

Responsibility

Monitoring Methodology

June

Monitoring
Frequency

Monitoring Stations

May

Monitoring Activities

April

Mitigation Measure

March

Environmental Impact

Feb

Aspect

Jan

TABLE 1
TAILING STORAGE FACILITY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE

Conduct a visual bird count every 200 meters along the transects and within a Twice per year**
100-meter radius of each 200-meter station (5 minutes at each station). After
the transect surveys have been completed, use the Shannon-Wiener index for
calculating the biological diversity of the counted bird population; Observe
mammals by documenting for evidence of dung heaps, footprints, etc. For
guanacos, puma, fox, and reptiles, the total number of individuals observed
will also be recorded in the field notes. Routes of travel by the guanaco that
can be recognized by prints, dung heaps, or recent use of dust baths should
also be recorded.

Environmental
Superintendent

Archaeological
Resources

Loss of archaeological artifacts

All significant archeological


artifacts have been removed
from the site.

No Monitoring

No Monitoring Stations

No routine monitoring is planned

Environmental
Superintendent

None

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed
1/Mo.
3/day

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed
1/Mo.
3/day

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed
1/Mo.
3/day

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed
1/Mo.
3/day

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed
1/Mo.
3/day

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed
1/Mo.
3/day

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.


As-Needed

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.

1 Survey

1/mo.

View points south of the Cerro Verde mine**

1 Visual Survey

View Points 1, 2, and 3.**

1/mo.

Maintain and improve animal


habitats in other undisturbed
area at SMCV; utilize methods
for discouraging animals from
foraging in the TSF area.

1/mo.

Habitat reduction.

1/mo.

Fauna

1/mo.

Qualitative visual observations.**

1/mo.

TSF vicinity; propagation areas**

1 Visual Survey

Implement propagation program. Visual Inspection

1/Mo.

Environmental
Superintendent

Loss of vegetation resulting from the


gradual filling of the tailing
impoundment or dust accumulation.

3/day

Twice per year

Vegetation

TSP, all results reported in g/m3

1/mo.

Environmental
Superintendent

South, North, TSF, and Jacobo Hunter Stations

1 Inspection

Once per month

Removal of the contaminated soil Particulate dust (arsenic,


layer.
copper, and lead) laboratory
analysis

1/Mo.

High-volume air sampling; measure concentration of metals in the PM10 and

Accumulation of tailing dust on the


soil.

3/day

TSF Department

1/mo.

Three times per day


(Once per shift)

1/Mo.

Visual observation

3/day

TSF Perimeter

1/mo.

Visual inspection of the TSF


systems

1/Mo.

Environmental
Superintendent

As-Needed

Loss of soil resulting from gradual


Clean-up and mitigation after a
filling of the tailing impoundment. Soil spill.
contamination after a spill.

Groundwater monitoring wells MAS-25, MAS-26, and Collect field measurements (time and date, weather conditions, field pH,
Monthly
MAS-31, MW-01, MW-02, MW-03, MW-04 and MW- dissolved oxygen, temperature, electrical conductivity, depth to groundwater;
5 (Que Enlozada); MAS 27, MAS-30, MAS-41, and 2 collect 1-liter (plastic container, no preservative) sample- analyze for TDS, TS,
TSS, acidity, alkalinity, sulfate, and chloride; collect 1-liter (plastic cont.
future monitoring wells (Que. Tinajones); MAS-39,
perserved to pH<2 w/ HNO3) sample- analyze for Al, As, Co, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mo,
MAS-40 (La Quebradita)*
Pb, and Zn

1/Mo.

Soils

Groundwater elevations,
sampling, and laboratory
analysis

3/day

Install and operate


monitoring/extraction wells
downgradient of the TSF
embankment and seepage
collection sump to
monitor/intercept impacted
groundwater, if any.

Environmental
Superintendent

1/mo.

Alteration of groundwater quality in


the groundwater system located
immediately under or downgradient of
the TSF.

Collect field measurements (time and date, weather conditions, dissolved


As-needed
oxygen, temperature, electrical conductivity; collect 1-liter (plastic container,
no preservative) sample- analyze for TS, TSS, TDS, acidity, alkalinity, nitrates,
bicarb/carb/, sulfate, and chloride; collect 1-liter (plastic cont. perserved to
pH<2 w/ HNO3) sample- analyze for Al, As, Ca, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo,
Pb, Zn.

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.

Groundwater

No routine monitoring stations; special samples may


be collected from time to time from specially selected
locations including locations where unexpected
seepages have developed or following significant
storm events.

As-Needed

Erosion and sediment control as Visual inspections of the TSF


required.
embankment, impoundment,
and the limestone area for
evidence of seepage.

1/Mo.

Stormwater in the Quebrada


Enlozada is intercepted by the TSF.

3/day

Surface Water

1/mo.

Particulate dust and laboratory South, North, TSF, PJ Cerro Verde Village, Tiabaya, High-volume air sampling; measure PM10, total suspended particulate, all
Apply water to the tailing
analysis
and Jacobo Hunter Stations
embankment or water/dust
results reported in g/m3
suppressants to the TSF access
roads to minimize airborne dust.

1/every 3rd day 1/Mo.

Tailing particles become airborne


because of high wind conditions and
excessively dry roads emit particulate
dust because of significant vehicle
traffic.

As-Needed

Air Quality

3/day

Visual inspection of the TSF

1/mo.

Verify that the TSF does not


Embankment slope survey
Transformation of the head of
exceed the specified (in the EIA)
Quebrada Enlozada into a raised
terrace; change in the morphology of physical limits.
the upper part of the quebrada.

1 Inspection

Topography and
Landscape

1 Survey

Technical

Environmental
Superintendent

*Monitoring wells MAS-39 and MAS-40 in La Quebradita are proposed to be installed within 5 years after the start of the operations. Monitoring well MAS-41 in the west saddle area is proposed to be installed within 15 years after the start of the operations. The number and locations of the new wells in Quebrada Tinajones will be confirmed at a later stage.
**As Specifided in the ESMP (SMCV, 2005)

Cont
Cont
Cont

Cont
Cont
Cont

Cont
Cont
Cont

Cont
Cont

Environmental
Superintendent

Audit Program
Implementation

Document Control
and File Retention

Environmental
Superintendent

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

Once

Cont

Cont

External
Dissemination of
Environmental Data

Environmental
Superintendent

Cont 1/ every 2 Yrs.

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

SMCV Management
Meetings

Environmental
Superintendent

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

Cont

Include EMP
Requirements in the
Employee Training
Program.

Cont

Cont

Once

Cont

Cont

Cont

Environmental
Superintendent

1 Review

Administrative
Perform Periodic
Review of the EMP Implement
Modifications

TABLE 2
EMERGENCY RESPONSE ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL AND MONITORING
TSF Component
Embankment/beach area

Failure Mode
Dust emission.

Trigger Event
Dry tailing surface due to
sustained high-wind
conditions.

Environmental Consequences
Release of airborne tailing to the plant site,
local lands, and Communities.

Emergency Response Procedure


Mobilize the TSF sprinkler system and/or water trucks and apply water to the embankment crest and slope and the dry
beach area. Repeat applications may be required. Collect supplemental high-volume particulate dust samples from all of
the air quality monitoring stations; analyze the samples and report the results as soon as possible to SMCV
management. The Environmental Superintendent must determine if notifications to local and national authorities, is
required. If the dust emissions persist, mobilize emergency response team and initiate emergency communications.

Dam overtopping.

Significant storm event,


operator error, earthquake.

Release of process water and tailing to the


Quebrada Enlozada; downstream aquatic
life (Rio Chili) may be affected;
downstream users (irrigation and drinking
water) may be affected.

Mobilize emergency response team and initiate emergency communications to national and local authorities and
residents. Collect and analyze water samples from the TSF emergency release point, mouth of the Quebrada Enlozada,
and the Rio Chili (above and below the confluence with Que. Enlozada) once every six hours during the event, if the
sampling locations are safe and accessible. Collect flow data from the same four locations at least once every six hours
(4/day); monitor for and document environmental damage, if any, in the Que. Enlozada; design and implement a
corrective action plan.

Barge pump
failure/pipe
rupture/booster
station pump
failure.

Sabotage, fatigue, corrosion,


or power loss.

No environmental consequences if the


reclaim pond level does not rise beyond
the embankment crest elevation.

Switch on the stand-by pump.

Barge Operator

Monitor the rate of rise of the pond, collect and analyze water samples; review the potential spill places and design
appropriate mitigation measures. Potential measures may include temporary plant shutdown or reduced production rate.

The Concentrator Manager would be


responsible for deciding on mitigation
measures.

Tailing Delivery System

Pipe rupture (tailing


delivery line).

Sabotage, pipe fatigue,


corrosion, blockage, operator
error.

Soils and vegetation may be buried by


spilled tailing.

Maintain routine communications at the site, estimate flow rate, quantity, and duration of the tailing slurry spill; design
and implement repairs to the delivery line; recover the spilled tailing to the extent feasible and dispose in the TSF.

Cyclone Station

Pipe rupture.

Sabotage, pipe fatigue,


corrosion, blockage, operator
error.

Soils and vegetation may be buried by


spilled tailing.

Maintain routine communications at the site, estimate flow rate, duration, and quantity of the tailing slurry spill; design
and implement repairs to the cyclone station; recover the spilled tailing if spilled to undisturbed land, and dispose in the
TSF.

The Tailing Superintendent and the


Environmental Superintendent would
determine when to re-start the tailing delivery
pipeline.
The Tailing Superintendent and the
Environmental Superintendent would
determine when to re-start the cyclone
station.

Pump failure.

Fatigue, corrosion, or power


loss.

Same as above.

Pipe rupture.

Sabotage, pipe fatigue,


corrosion, blockage, operator
error.

Soils and vegetation may be buried by


spilled tailing.

Pump failure.

Sabotage, fatigue, corrosion,


or power loss.

Same as above.

Sabotage, fatigue, corrosion,


or power failure.

No environmental consequences if the


water level in the sump does not rise
beyond the spillway elevation.

Reclaim Water Pond

Scalping Cyclone Station

Seepage Collection Sump

Pump failure.

Water quality not suitable for


use at the plant.

Comments
High concentrations of airborne tailing may
pose an environmental and human health
hazard.

Effective communications, protecting the


safety and well being of local residents, and
information management will be critical.

Maintain routine communications at the site, isolate and de-energize malfunctioning equipment; design and implement
pump replacement; dispose damaged motors consistent with local disposal laws.
Maintain routine communications at the site, estimate flow rate, duration, and quantity of the tailing slurry spill; design
and implement repairs to the tailing scalping station; recover the spilled tailing if spilled to undisturbed land, and dispose
in the TSF.

Disposal of spent electrical components may


require special procedures and permits.
The Tailing Superintendent and the
Environmental Superintendent would
determine when to re-start the scalping
station.

Maintain routine communications at the site, isolate and de-energize malfunctioning equipment; design and implement
motor replacement; dispose damaged motors consistent with local disposal laws.
Turn on the stand-by pump in the case of a pump failure or the emergency generator in the case of a power failure.
Water samples should be taken and the water quality evaluated to assess if the water in the sump meets discharge
standards.

Disposal of spent electrical components may


require special procedures and permits.
Tailing Dam Operator

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP

APPENDIX 1
AIR QUALITY MONITORING REPORT FORMS AND MONITORING
PROTOCOLS

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

Appendix 1
Air Quality Monitoring Protocol
Step 1
Select the appropriate filter paper depending if TSP or PM10 monitoring is being conducted.
Step 2
Pre-set the High-Volume Sampling machine for the desired sampling date and times and flowrate.
The tare weight of each high-volume sampler filter paper will be determined in the site
laboratory. After the 24-hour samples have been collected, the filter papers will be removed from
the sampler, dried for a minimum of 8 hours at 100 deg. C, and weighed.
Step 3
The net weight of the collected dust will be determined in milligrams by subtracting the tare
weight from the gross weight.
Step 4
The volume of air that was sampled will be determined by multiplying the total minutes the
sampler was operating times the sampling rate.
Step 5
The dust concentration will be calculated by dividing the dust net weight time by the air volume
that was sampled. The dust concentration should be reported as micrograms per cubic meter.
The appropriate field data form should be used for documenting the raw field data.
Step 6
After the field data has been collected, the filter papers for the North, South, TSF, and Jacobo
Stations should be sealed in a plastic bag, bag labeled, then sent to a qualified laboratory where
the arsenic, lead, and copper determinations will be performed. The laboratory will need to
provide the net weight of each metal that exists on the filter paper.

APPENDIX 1-1
AIR QUALITY MONITORING FIELD DATA PM10
Sample
Location

Date

Tare
Weight

Filter Paper
Gross
Weight

Net
Weight

Start
Time

High Volume Sampler


End
Flow
Time
Rate

Volume
Sampled

Calculated
Concentration

Technician
Name

General Weather
Conditions

APPENDIX 1-2
AIR QUALITY MONITORING FIELD DATA TSP
Sample
Location

Date

Tare
Weight

Filter Paper
Gross
Weight

Net
Weight

Start
Time

High Volume Sampler


End
Time
Flow Rate

Volume
Sampled

Calculated
Concentration

Technician
Name

General Weather
Conditions

APPENDIX 1-4
TAILING FACILITY AIR QUALITY MONITORING SUMMARY TSP
Dust Analysis

TSP Concentration (g/m3)


Year

Day/Month

Metals Concentration (g/m3)


Daily Arithmetic Mean

Average

Cu

Pb

As

Notes

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP

APPENDIX 2
SURFACE WATER QUALITY MONITORING REPORT FORM AND
MONITORING PROTOCOL

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

Appendix 2
Surface Water Sampling Protocol
All surface water samples collected around the TSF area will be collected using a standard
sampling technique. It is important to follow the steps below so that representative samples are
collected.
Step 1: Sample Collection
Prepare a water sampling field data form for each surface water monitoring station that will be
sampled. Appendix 2 contains an example field data form.
Observe the surface water stream to be sampled and make a qualitative determination that the
sampling conditions are representative (i.e., unusual weather conditions, etc., have not
substantially affected typical stream quality, etc.).
Properly label each sample container(s) prior to collecting the sample(s). The types of sample
containers that should be used are also shown in Table 2-1 below. Use an identification system
that not only SMCV personnel but also the laboratory can understand. At a minimum, the sample
label should contain the following information:

Sample Identification Number (EN-01 for Quebrada Enlozada, Monitoring Station No. 1,
etc.)
Sample Location Name (Lower Quebrada Enlozada at Mouth, etc.)
Date and Time (DD/MM/YYYY @ 2:30PM, etc.)
Preservative type (Hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, cool @ 4 deg C, etc.;
on the sample container, note these preservatives as HCL, HSO4, NaOH, Cool @ 4 deg C)

When collecting a water sample, the opening of the container should be held below the surface of
the water to avoid inadvertently collecting surface scum and solids.
Step 2: Record Field Data
Measure and record the pH and temperature of the sample in the sampling field book. Visually
observe the turbidity of the surface water being sampled and record in the field book. Report the
turbidity as Clear, Slightly Turbid, or Turbid. Note the weather conditions (clear sky, approx. air
temperature, or cloudy with rain, etc.). If dissolved oxygen is to be measured, conduct this
determination in the field and record in the field book.
Step 3: Sample Preservation
It is highly important that the samples be properly preserved immediately after being collected. If
an acid preservative is being used, usually 2 ml of the concentrated acid is added to a 1-liter
sample so that the sample pH is reduced to less than 2 S.U. If an alkali preservative is being used
(NaOH), 2 ml of NaOH is added to a 1-liter sample so that the resulting sample pH is increased to
at least 10 S.U. Depending on the constituents that will be analyzed, samples preservation will
require acid, alkali, or simply refrigeration. Table 2-1 shows the preservative that must be used.

Step 4: Sample Shipping


Samples that are collected and preserved must be analyzed within a certain period of time in order
to achieve representative results. Depending on the constituent(s) being analyzed, the holding
time can vary from 24 hours to 3 months. Table 2-1 notes the holding times that will apply. The
holding time starts when the sample is collected/preserved and ends when the sample is analyzed.
Samples can be analyzed after the holding time has expired, however, the results may not be
representative and the results may not be accepted by the regulatory authorities.

Constituents
Total Metals
Total Solids
Total Dissolved Solids
TSS
Acidity
Alkalinity
Nitrates
Bicarbonates
Carbonates
Chlorine
Sulfate

TABLE 2-1
SAMPLE PREPARATION PROCEDURE
Sample
Preservative
Sample Size
Bottle Type
(Liter)
Plastic
HNO3 to pH =< 2
1

Holding Time
3 months

Plastic

Cool 4o C (cooler
with ice)

7 days

Plastic

Cool 4o C (cooler
with ice)

7 days

APPENDIX 2-1
SURFACE WATER SAMPLING FIELD DATA

Sample
ID

Sample
Location

Date
dd/mm/yy

Time

Field pH
S.U.

Sample
Size
(ml)

Turbidity
(clear,
slightly
turbid, very
turbid)

Temperature
(deg. C)

Dissolved
Oxygen

Electrical
Conductivity

Total
Dissolved
Solids

Preservative
(cool @ 3oC,
HCL,
HNO3, HSO4
NaOH)

Technician
Name

General
Weather
Conditions
(i.e., cloudy
15 deg.)

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * EMP

APPENDIX 3
GROUNDWATER QUALITY MONITORING REPORT FORM AND
MONITORING PROTOCOL

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

Appendix 3
Groundwater Monitoring Wells - Water Sampling Protocol
The groundwater monitoring well sampling procedure will be as follows:
Step One: Sample Collection Strategy
Use the results of previous monitoring events to determine the order in which monitoring wells
will be sampled. This prioritization is determined to minimize potential sample contamination.
Monitoring wells that historically have the lowest concentrations of dissolved constituents will be
sampled first, then the well with the second lowest historical dissolved phase concentrations, the
third lowest concentration, and so forth. If two wells have comparable historical concentrations,
then the most upgradient well(s) will be sampled first, followed by the most downgradient
well(s).
Step Two: Sample Collection
Properly label each sample container(s) prior to collecting the sample(s). Use an identification
system that not only SMCV personnel but also the laboratory can understand. At a minimum, the
sample label should contain the following information:

Sample Identification Number (MAS-27); identifies the Quebrada Tinajones as the watershed
and Groundwater Monitoring Well No. 27 as the sampling point, etc.)
Date and Time (DD/MM/YYYY @ 2:30PM, etc.)
Preservative type (Hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, cool @ 4 deg C, etc.;
on the sample container, note these preservatives as HCL, HSO4, NaOH, Cool @ 4 deg C)

Step Three: Determine Water Surface Elevation


The cap on the monitoring well casing will be removed and the water level and pressure in the
well will be allowed to equilibrate for about 5 minutes. Measure the water level in the well with a
Piezometer Meter. Use the top of the well casing for determining the depth to the water surface
to the nearest centimeter. All water level measurement data will be recorded in the data sheet
contained in Appendix 3.
Step Four: Well Purging
Purging of the monitoring wells will be performed using a peristaltic pump with new
polyethylene tubing. The polyethylene tubing will be slowly lowered into the well to minimize
turbulence and mixing of casing water. The end of the tubing will be lowered to a depth that is at
the midpoint of the saturated section of the well screen. The end of the tubing will be located at
least 60 cm above the bottom of the well to minimize particulate movement, if possible. Water
will be evacuated from the well at a rate of less than 0.5 liters per minute (L/min). Flow rate will
be monitored during the purging process using either a digital flow meter or graduated cylinder
and stopwatch.
During the purging process, the groundwater pH, temperature, specific conductance, oxidation
reduction potential (ORP), dissolved oxygen (DO), and turbidity should be monitored and
recorded every five minutes using a flow-through-cell and electronic instrument. Water level in

the well should also be monitored during purging. The well will be considered adequately purged
and ready for sampling when there is less than a three-percent (%) change in temperature and
specific conductance, less than 10% change in DO, turbidity, and pH, and less than 10 millivolts
change in ORP. If the monitoring well purges dry, the well will be sampled, if/when 80%
recharge has occurred.
Step Four (a): Alternative Well Purging
If using a peristaltic pump is not feasible, then well purging can be performed using a disposable
bailer. Lower the bailer into the monitoring well, allow it to fill, and remove the bailer from the
well. Remove the contents of the bailer into a container and collect the field data referenced
above. Lower the bailer into the monitoring well and repeat the process of filling it and collecting
the field data. When the field data stabilizes to the specifications noted in the paragraph above,
well sampling can proceed.
Step Five: Well Sampling
Once the measured parameters have stabilized, a groundwater sample will be collected from the
peristaltic pump discharge (or well bailer). Leave space in the sample container for adding any
preservatives.
Step Six: Sample Preservation
It is highly important that the samples be properly preserved immediately after being collected. If
an acid preservative is being used, usually 2 ml of the concentrated acid is added to a 1-liter
sample so that the sample pH is reduced to less than 2 S.U. If an alkali preservative is being used
(NaOH), 2 ml of NaOH is added to a 1-liter sample so that the resulting sample pH is increased to
at least 10 S.U. Depending on the constituents that will be analyzed, samples preservation will
require acid, alkali, or simply refrigeration. Table 3-1 below shows the preservative that must be
used.

Constituents
Total Metals
Total Solids
Total Suspended Solids
Total Dissolved Solids
Acidity
Alkalinity
Chloride
Sulfate

TABLE 3-1
SAMPLE PREPARATION PROCEDURE
Sample
Preservative
Sample Size
Bottle Type
(Liter)
Plastic
HNO3 to pH < 2
1

Holding Time
3 months

Plastic

Cool 4o C (cooler
with ice)

7 days

Plastic

Cool 4o C (cooler
with ice)

7 days

Step Seven: Sample Shipping


Samples that are collected and preserved must be analyzed within a certain period of time in order
to achieve representative results. Depending on the constituent(s) being analyzed, the holding
time can vary from 24 hours to 3 months. Table 3-1 notes the holding times that will apply. The
holding time starts when the sample is collected/preserved and ends when the sample is analyzed.
If required, samples can be analyzed after the holding time has expired; however, the results
may not be representative and the results may not be accepted by the regulatory authorities.

APPENDIX 3-2
GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELL PURGING/SAMPLING
Location (Site/Facility Name)

(Well #)

Project Name/#

Sampling Point (common name)


Date

Facility ID

Field Personnel

Station ID

Sampling Organization

Purging Device (type of pump, bailer, etc)*

Submersible pump with direct line to Flow Cell used for all measurements? (Y or N)*

Pump intake or bailer set at (cm below MP)

Time
(24-hr clock)

DTW
below MP
(meters)

Purge Rate
(specify units below))
(
)

Cumulative
Volume Purged
(specify units below)

Water
Column
Volumes
Purged

Temp

Electrical
Conductivity

Specific
Conductance

(Mhos/cm)

(Mhos/cm)

( C)

pH

Eh

DO

Turbidity

Comments

(mv)

(mg/l)

(NTU)

(1liter Sample Collected, etc.)

Date:
Time (24-hr clock)

CALIBRATION
Calibration: Summary

1 or 2 pt.

K=

Buffers

Type

Comments
Field measurements protocol followed with no exceptions (Y, N)

Form completed by:

Date:

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X Appendices

APPENDIX C
Forms

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

APPENDIX C1
Embankment QA/QC Forms

FORM A : EMBANKMENT FILL DENSITY TEST RESULTS


Test
Number

Station Distance D/S of Center Line


Elevation

Maximum
Dry Density
(pcf)

Optimum
Moisture
Content (%)

Dry
Density
(pcf)

Moisture
Content
(%)

Compaction
Act. (%) Req. (%)

Proctor Number and Soil Description

Proctor No. 1 Data


Max. Dry Density (pcf):_________________
Opt. Moisture Content(%):_______________

Soil Type:_________________________________________________

Date tested:_______________

Soil Type:_________________________________________________

Date tested:_______________

Proctor No. 2 Data


Max. Dry Density (pcf):_________________
Opt. Moisture Content(%):_______________

Gauge Data
Gauge No.:______________
Gauge Correction Factor:_________________

Density Standard Count:______________


Moisture Standard Count:_____________

Project Name:
Project Location:
Project Number:

Technician:

Form A - Nuclear Density Test.xls

Date:

MWH
1801 California Street, Suite 2900
Denver, Colorado 80202
Main tel. (303) 291-2222
Project fax: (303) 291-2221

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Primary Sulfide Project
Project No. 1010211

FORM B
NONCONFORMANCE
RESOLUTION

NONCONFORMANCE

Date Nonconformance Noted:


Nonconformance Noted By:

RESOLUTION

Date Resolution Completed:


Resolution Observed By:

J:\Jim Obermeyer\1010211 Cerro Verde Tailing Dam\Task files\Detail Design Report (012512)\Volume 9 Operations Manual\FINAL - 09-13-06\Appendix C\Appendix C1\Form B Nonconformance.doc

Page 1 of 1

FORM C : SIEVE ANALYSIS WORKSHEET


ASTM Standards: D422 & D1140
Weight Retained (g)

Sieve Size
(US Standard)

Individual

Cumulative

Percent Retained (%)


Individual

Cumulative

Percent Passing (%)


Individual

Cumulative

3 inch
2.5 inch
2 inch
1.5 inch
1 inch
3/4 inch
5/8 inch
1/2 inch
3/8 inch
1/4 inch
No. 4
No. 8
No. 10
No. 12
No. 16
No. 20
No. 30
No. 40
No. 50
No. 60
No. 80
No. 100
No. 200
Pan
Tare No.:____________________________
Tare Weight:__________________________
Natural Moisture Content (%):____________
Dry Weight (g):_______________________
Soil Description: Coarse Gravel, some fine to medium sand, some silt
Project Name:

Cerro Verde TSF

Sample Location:

Project Number:
Sample Number:

Technician:

Date:

Cobbles (%):

Gravels (%):

Sands (%):
Fineness Modulus:

Fines (%):
USCS Classification:

Cu:
C c:
D10:
D30:
D60:

Form C - Grain Size Analysis ASTM D422.xls

GP

Specification

LABORATORIO DE SUELOS Y CONCRETO

ENSAYO DE COMPACTACION
ASTM D-698
CODIGO
MATERIAL

PROCTOR : STANDARD

X MODIFICADO

N MUESTRA

N DE CAPAS :

HECHO POR

N DE GOLPES POR CAPA :

METODO

ASTM D-698

ALTURA DE CAIDA

REVISADO POR :

PESO DEL MARTILLO

FECHA

VOLUMEN DEL MOLDE :

ENSAYO N

3108

56
12 pulg.
5.5 Libras

DETERMINACION DE DENSIDAD
AGUA AADIDA
PESO MOLDE+SUELO
PESO MOLDE
PESO SUELO COMPACTADO

DENSIDAD HUMEDA
DETERMINACION DE CONTENIDO DE HUMEDAD
RECIPIENTE N
SUELO HUMEDO + RECIPIENTE
SUELO SECO + RECIPIENTE
PESO RECIPIENTE
PESO DE AGUA

PESO DE SUELO SECO

CONTENIDO DE HUMEDAD (% )
DENSIDAD SECA (gr)

Densidad Seca (gr/cm3)

CURVA DE COMPACTACION
2.235
2.225
2.215
2.205
2.195
2.185
2.175
2.165
2.155
2.145
2.135
2.125
2.115
2.105
4.0

5.0

6.0

7.0

8.0

9.0

10.0

11.0

12.0

13.0

Humedad %
y=0
R2 = #N/A

Densidad Max :

Revised 9/14/2006

gr/cc

% Optimo de humedad :

APPENDIX C

FORM D

SAND CONE FIELD DENSITY


TEST NUMBER
Tested By:
Date:
Test Location:
Test Elevation:
Soil Classification:
VOLUME DETERMINATION
1) Weight of Soil Removed from the Hole Plus Container (kg):
2) Weight of Container (kg):
3) Weight of Soil Removed from Hole [1-2] (kg):
4) Initial Weight of Sand Cone Plus Sand (kg):
5) Final Weight of Sand Cone Plus Sand (kg):
6) Weight of Sand Used [4-5] (kg):
3

7) Density of Sand (Constant) (kg/m ):


3

8) Volume of Sand used [6/7] (m ):


3

9) Volume of Sand Cone (Constant) (m ):


3

10) Volume of Wet Soil [8-9] (m ):


MOISTURE CONTENT DETERMINATION
11) Tare Number:
12) Tare Weight (g):
13) Weight of Wet Soil + Tare (g):
14) Weight of Dry Soil +Tare (g):
15) Weight of Water [13-14] (g):
16) Weight of Dry Soil [14-12] (g):
17) Moisture Content [15/16] (%):
CALCULATIONS
3

18) Wet Density [3/10] (kg/m )


3

19) Dry Density {18/("1"+17)] (kg/m )


3

20) Maximum Dry Density (kg/m ):


21) Percent Compaction (% of Maximum Dry Density) [19/20]

Remarks:___________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________

Project Name:
Project Location:

Project No.:

Technician:

Date:

Form E - English Sand Cone Field Density Form.xls

COMPAA MINERA CERRO VERDE


PROYECTO DE SULFUROS PRIMARIOS
PRESA DE RELAVES
ASUNTO

FORM E
DENSIDAD DE CAMPO CONO
DE ARENA
Report N
Gerente de area

PROPIETARIO

Gerente de const.

CONTRATISTA

Gerente de Proy.

REPRESENTANTE
CQA/DISEO

Gerente de const.
Gerente de CQA
METODO DEL CONO DE ARENA ( ASTM D-1556 )

Densidad in Situ
Zona de trabajo :
1 Prueba N
2 Capa N
3 Progresiva del ensayo
4 Cota
5 Progresiva Inicial del tramo trabajado
6 Progresiva final del tramo trabajado
7 Distancia del eje ( Aguas arriba o aguas abajo )
8 Peso del material neto
9 Peso de la tara
10 Peso del suelo hmedo ( 8-9 )
11 Peso de la arena + frasco
12 Peso de la arena del cono
13 Peso de la arena que queda + el frasco
14 Peso neto de la arena empleada ( 11-12-13 )
15 Densidad de la arena
16 Volumen del hueco ( 14/15 )
17 Peso de la grava secada al aire
18 Peso especifico por desplazamiento
19 Volumen de la grava por desplazamiento (17/18)
20 Peso del suelo ( 10-17 )
21 Volumen del suelo ( 16-19 )
22 Densida del suelo hmedo ( 20/21 )
23 Humedad contenida en el suelo
24 Densidad del suelo seco
25 Curva adoptada N
26 Maxima densidad determinada en la curva
27 % Optimo de Humedad de la curva
28 Porcentaje de compactacin ( 24/26 )
29 Compactacin especifica minima
30 Densidad total
31 % de grava mayor a 3/4"
32 Espesor sin compactar

Prueba:
Fecha :

Lado :

Punto Proctor
P.Mat+Mold
P.Molde
P.Mat
Vol.Molde
D.Humeda
% De.Humed
D.Seca

33 EQUIPO UTILIZADO
34 N De pasadas
Control de Humedad

RECIPIENTE N
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)

Peso de la tara + suelo hmedo


Peso de la tara + suelo seco
Peso del agua
Peso de tara
Suelo seco
% de humedad

Observaciones:

Approval
SMCV. Supervisor
CQC Engineer
CQA Engineer

Name

Signature

APPENDIX C2
TSF Inspection Reports

C2-1

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Tailing Storage Facility
Routine Shift Operations and Inspections Report
Date:_____________________ Time Shift: ____________________ Time of Inspection: ____________________
Inspector:______________________________________________ Position:______________________________
Shift Supervisor: _________________________________________(signature)

Tailing Production and Deposition


Tailing Production Rate (t /hour)*
Tailing stream to Scalping station (t)**
Tailing stream to Central Cyclone Station (CCS) (t)**
Scalping station overflow (t)**
Scalping station overflow discharge point(s)
CCS underflow (t and % solids by weight) **
CCS underflow discharge point(s)
CCS overflow (t) **
CCS overflow discharge point(s)
Whole tailing deposition (t and discharge point) **
Embankment Construction Activities
Upset or Unusual Conditions
Underflow Header raise (location and value)
Overflow Header raise (location and value)
Visual Observations
Weather conditions
Embankment (cracks, erosion, dust, seepage, etc.)
-action taken, mitigation measures
Freeboard (minimum value and location)
Pond Location (elevation and distance from embankment)
Seepage Collection Sump (liner, sump, spillway,
embankment)
Safety Hazards
-action taken, mitigation measures
Dust Generation and Mitigation
Spills
Wildlife Encounters
Incidental Sampling Event
Instrumentation Review
ADAS system signals
Vibrating Wire Piezometers
Standpipe Piezometers
Accelerometers
Weir (seepage flow meter)
Survey monuments
Staff gauges
* Average tons/hour for the shift
** Total tons for the shift

Observations

Form C2-2

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Tailing Storage Facility
Routine Weekly Inspection Report
Inspector: __________________ Position: __________________ Weather Conditions: __________________
Date:__________________________________ Time of Inspection: __________________________________

Item
TSF Embankment
Embankment Crest Elevation (m)
Embankment Slope (m)
Freeboard Height (embankment crest el. impoundment
tailing el.) (m)
Average Compacted Underflow Density (t/m3)
Embankment Inspection (check all that apply)
Sloughs
Settlement
Erosion Gullies
Other

Seeps

Observations

Cracks
Depression or Bulge

(specify)

If any of the above are checked, attach a sketch, a detailed description, photographs, and description of
mitigation measures.
TSF Impoundment
Reclaim Water Pond elevation and depth at base (m)
Distance of Reclaim Water Pond to embankment (m)
Location and size of isolated ponds
Average return water flow rate (m3/hr)
Unusual beach condition
Excessive dust generation
Wildlife encounters
Seepage Collection Sump
Sump water level (m)
Average return water flow rate (m3/hr)
Condition of liner
Embankment
Monitoring wells
Weir

Form C2-3

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Tailing Storage Facility
Comprehensive Monthly Inspections Report
Inspector: ______________________________ Position: __________________________________________
Date:__________________________________

Item
Tailing Deposition Summary
Total tailing production (dry tons)
Total underflow placed on the embankment (t)
Total whole tailing discharged into the impoundment (t)
Total scalping station overflow discharged into the
impoundment (t)
Total Central Cyclone Station (CCS) overflow discharged
from the embankment and into the west valley (t)
Cyclone Station downtime (hours)

Observations

Embankment Construction Summary


Current embankment elevation (m)
Embankment rate of rise (m/month)
Time to complete a full lift on the embankment (days)
Average embankment underflow density (t/m3)
Summary of embankment QA/QC activities and frequencies:
List of unforeseen conditions:
Safety record (incident, hours lost, persons name, and
date of incident):
Equipment operational availability (list hrs. of downtime
and equipment type):
Impoundment Operations Summary
Impoundment area (m2)
Reclaim Water Pond location and area (m2)
Minimum beach length (m) and beach slope (%)
Impoundment filling rate (m/month)
Monitoring Data Summary
Condition of instrumentation (list unsatisfactory
equipment)
Review of monitoring results
Facility Inspection (list unsatisfactory practices and/or equipment)
Embankment
Impoundment
Tailing delivery system
Return water system
Seepage collection sump

Form C2-3

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Tailing Storage Facility
Comprehensive Monthly Inspections Report
Inspector: ______________________________ Position: __________________________________________
Date:__________________________________
Instrumentation
Construction equipment
Access roads
Safety records
Maintenance records
Training records
Conclusions and Recommendations
Review TSF performance versus design:

Recommendations:

Form C2-4

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Tailing Storage Facility
Post-Earthquake Inspection Report
(inspection to be performed immediately following the event)

Inspector: __________________ Position: __________________ Weather Conditions: __________________


Inspection Date:_____________________________ Time of Inspection: ______________________________
Event Date:_________________________________ Time of Event: _________________________________

Item
Earthquake Intensity (MMI)
General Observations at the Site

Observations

Embankment Inspection
Cracks
Sloughs
Seeps
Settlement
Movement
Depressions / bulges
Instrumentation condition
Other signs of instability
Impoundment / Reclaim pond
Signs of liquefaction
Freeboard
Pond elevation / location
Other
Pipelines/ Header Lines Inspection
Displacement
cracks
spills
operability
safety issues
Seepage Collection Sump
Embankment, cracks, sloughs, seeps
Damage to pumps
Liner condition
Condition of monitoring wells
Monitoring (place a check mark in the left column if the following items were completed)
Read all instrumentation (piezometers, accelerometers, flow meters, etc.)
Review all monitoring results for signs of unusual behavior
Repeat readings at least once every day for one week or until necessary
Survey the embankment and compare with previous surveys
Evaluate the need for installation of additional monitoring instruments (e.g. to monitor performance of cracks)
Conclusions and Recommendations
Assess safety of the facility and prescribe mitigation measures if required

Form C2-5

Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde S.A.A.


Tailing Storage Facility
Post-Flood Inspection Report
(inspection to be performed immediately following the event)

Inspector: __________________ Position: __________________ Weather Conditions: __________________


Inspection Date:_____________________________ Time of Inspection: ______________________________
Event Date:_________________________________ Time of Event: _________________________________

Item
Duration and size of storm
General observations at the site
Embankment and Impoundment Inspection
Distance of the reclaim water pond to the
embankment (m)
Reclaim water pond level (m)
Signs of embankment overtopping
Erosion on the embankment crest (location and
extent)
Erosion on the embankment downstream slope
Condition of the embankment groins
Signs of seepage
Other signs of distress
Seepage Collection Sump
Water level in Seepage collection sump (m)
Estimate of total water volume in sump (m3)
Review of pump rate (m3/hr)
Monitor the water level until stable
Erosion, sediment accumulation
Condition of liner
Condition of seepage measurement weir
Accumulation of sediment in the weir box
Operability of the water flow meter
Condition of Access Roads:
Monitoring
Seepage monitoring wells
Piezometers
Flow meter
Conclusions and Recommendations
Safety concerns:

Embankment stability concerns:

Water quality issues:

Observations

APPENDIX C3
Piezometer Installation Record
Modified Mercali Intensity Scale

TABLE C 3-1
PIEZOMETER INSTALLATION RECORDS
ID

Type

CVS-01

Vib. Wire
Wellhead
Vib. Wire
Wellhead
Vib. Wire
Wellhead
Vib. Wire
Wellhead
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire
Vib. Wire

CVS-02
CVS-03
CVS-04
CVW-01
CVW-02
CVW-03
CVW-04
CVW-05
CVW-06
CVW-07
CVW-08
CVW-09
CVS-01

Northing

Easting

Elevation

Zero Readings

Calibration
Factors

Installation
Date

Installed by

Surveyed by

Table C3-2
Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale
MI*

Witness Observations

I
II

Not felt except by a very few under exceptionally favorable circumstances.


Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors of buildings. Delicately
suspended objects may swing.
Felt quite noticeably indoors, especially on upper floors of buildings, but many people
do not recognize it as an earthquake. Standing automobiles may rock slightly. Vibration
like passing truck. Duration estimated.
During day felt indoors by many, outdoors by few. At night some awaken. Dishes,
windows, doors disturbed; walls make creaking sound. Sensation like heavy truck
striking building. Standing automobiles rocked noticeably.
Felt by nearly everyone, many awakened. Some dishes, windows and so on broken;
cracked plaster in a few places; unstable objects overturned. Disturbance of trees, poles
and other tall objects sometimes noticed. Pendulum clocks may stop.
Felt by all, many frightened and run outdoors. Some heavy furniture moved; a few
instances of fallen plaster and damaged chimneys. Damage slight.
Everybody runs outdoors. Damage negligible in buildings of good design and
construction; slight to moderate in well-built ordinary structures; considerable in poorly
built or badly designed structures; some chimneys broken. Noticed by persons driving
cars.
Damage slight in specially designed structures; considerable in ordinary substantial
buildings with partial collapse; great in poorly built structures. Panel walls thrown out of
frame structures. Fall of chimneys, factory stacks, columns, walls, monuments. Heavy
furniture overturned. Sand and mud ejected in small amounts. Changes in well water.
Persons driving cars disturbed.
Damage considerable in specially designed structures; well-designed frame structures
thrown out of plumb; damage great in substantial buildings, with partial collapse.
Buildings shifted off foundations. Ground cracked conspicuously. Underground pipes
broken.
Some well-built wooden structures destroyed; most masonry and frame structures
destroyed with foundations; ground badly cracked. Rails bent. Landslides considerable
from river banks and steep slopes. Shifted sand and mud. Water splashed, slopped over
banks.
Few, if any (masonry) structures remain standing. Bridges destroyed. Broad fissures in
ground. Underground pipelines completely out of service. Earth slumps and landslips
in soft ground. Rails bend greatly.
Damage total. Waves seen on ground surface. Lines of sight and level distorted.
Objects thrown into the air.

III

IV

VI
VII

VIII

IX

XI

XII

Notes:
* Mercalli Intensity at epicenter
**g= 9.8 m/s2(gravitational acceleration)
*** Approximate corresponding earthquake magnitude

Average Peak Average Peak


Magnitude***
Acceleration** Velocity (cm/s)

1 to 2
2 to 3
3 to 4

0.015g-0.02g

1-2

0.03g-0.04g

2-5

4 to 5

0.06g-0.07g

5-8

5 to 6

0.10g-0.15g

8-12

0.25g-0.30g

20-30

6 to 7

0.50g-0.55g

45-55

>0.60g

>60

7 to 8

8 or greater

September 2006

Cerro Verde TSF * Operations Manual X Appendices

APPENDIX D
Sustaining Capital and Operations Cost

MWH * 1801 California Street, Suite 2900 * Denver, Colorado 80202 * (303) 291-2222

Table 1
ENGINEERS OPERATION COST ESTIMATE

Engineers Sustaining Capital and Operations Cost Estimate


ACTIVITY/FEATURE
PROJECT
LOCATION
OWNER/CLIENT
DATE

Embankment and Drain Construction


Cerro Verde Primary Sulfide Project
Arequipa, Peru
SMCV/PD
25-Jul-06

2006 (Year 0)

Description

Replace
(Beginning of
Year)

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

10,500
80,000
9,500
65,000
75,000
1,500
7,500

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

148,000

CM
CM
SM
CM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50
4.50

2007 (Year 1)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

2008 (Year 2)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

2009 (Year 3)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

2010 (Year 4)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

1
L.S.
1
L.S.
4 month
470,000
t
98,000
t
14,000
CM
107,000
CM
1,000
CM
5,000
CM
15,000
CM
96,000
CM
100,000
SM
1,900
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

2011 (Year 5)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Sustaining

Operations

Quantity

Unit

Price

Capital Cost

Cost

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

826,248

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

SUSTAINING CAPITAL COST


Equipment
Cat D6R Tractor, Crawler, LGP, Blade
6-ton Tandom Smooth Drum Roller, Vib., Towed
8-ton Vibratory Roller Self Propelled
Lights
Lubrication Truck
Pickup
Sprinkler System (dust control)
Tools
Computers and Software
Sub-total

5.00
3.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
1.00

5,000
5,000

5,000
5,000

3
2

5,000
5,000

417,600
326,960

75,000

5,000
824,560

2
1

5,000
5,000

205,000

62,000
5,000
1,098,248

Drains
Mobilization (1)
Demobilization (1)
Site Establishment
Produce Drain Material (Zone 6 and 6A)
Produce Filter Material (Zone 5)
Filter Zone 5 Placement - Blanket Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - Blanket Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 1st Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 1st Order Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Geotextile
Drain Pipe
Nilex Strip Drains
Sub-total
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 5 Placement
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 6 and 6A Placement
Geotextile
Blanket over Limestone in Impoundment (Waste Rock)
Mechanical Placement of Underflow at Toe Drain
Sub-total

2
460,000
75,000

Unlisted Items (15%)

15%

Construction Management and QA/QC (15%)


Total

500,000
3,247,600
589,500

67,935
349,600
96,140
410,150
117,000
150,000
141,900
5,669,825

9,600
48,500
27,500
511

1,000,000

97,152
306,035
42,900
51,100

8,200
42,000

1,700
10,400
33,000
431

1,497,187

144,000
666,000
666,000

15%

23,534
123,900

17,204
65,624
51,480
43,100
824,842

360,000

295,000

360,000

950,374

500,000

7,526,190
20,000
33,000
33,000

737,500

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

737,500

278,578

15%

15%

570,000
380,000
1,000,000
3,318,200
770,280
40,180
315,650
6,470
21,850
151,800
605,760
156,000
190,000

202,400
208,230
51,480
520,000
462,110

234,351

15%

1,300,000
1,300,000

1,198,245

15%

195,000

108,000

320,365

269,504

1,377,982

224,250

7,399,199

2,461,130

5,000

2,890,757

10,569,527

2,817,498

OPERATIONS
Labor
Operators (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Mechanic (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Oiler (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Laborer (Tech II) (6 each, 3 shifts)
Foreman (1 each, 3 shifts)
Embankment Construction Manager (1 each, 8 hour shift)
Total
Equipment
Engines, Transmission, Parts
Fuel
Lubricants
Undercarriage
Total

4,392
4,392
1,464
8,784
1,464
488

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

11,375
11,375
3,411
18,183
10,116
10,165
64,626

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

0.50
35,095
4,392
1

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

21,000
88,439
21,960
21,000
152,399

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

20
488
976
2,928
1,464

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

2,000
36,600
44,388
59,936
26,645
169,569

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

LS

210,000.00

210,000
210,000

LS

205,000.00

205,000
205,000

ENGINEERING
Quality Assurance
Office Support - Lima
Site Manager (1 each, 1 shift)
Shift Manager (Tech IV) (1 each, 2 shifts)
Inspector (Tech III) (2 each, 3 shifts)
Lab Technician (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Total
Instrumentation
Total

LS

LS

LS

LS

Survey
Surveyor (Tech III) (2 each, 1 shift)
Total
Project Management
Inspection, Review, Meetings
Design Cost
Embankment Investigation and Analysis and Instrumentation Design
Annual Report
External Technical Review Board
Total

976

HR

65.00

0.17
0.17
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
58,000.00

63,440
63,440

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

8,500
8,500

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1

50,000.00
50,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1
1

20,000
135,000
255,000

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

20,000.00
135,000.00

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

58,000

20,000.00

20,000
58,000

1
1

37,000

1
1
1

140,000.00
20,000.00
135,000.00

140,000
20,000
135,000
395,000

1
1

379,600
379,600

5,840

50,000
50,000

1
1

20,000
135,000
255,000

1
1

200,000

20,000.00
135,000.00
200,000

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

LS
50,000.00
LS
50,000.00
LS 200,000.00
LS
LS
20,000.00
LS 135,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00
140,000.00
20,000.00
135,000.00

50,000
50,000

20,000
135,000
255,000

1
1
1

140,000
20,000
135,000
395,000

FREIGHT & TARIFFS (25.8% of Associated Cost)


Equipment
Operations Equipment
Engineering Instrumentation
Total
Subtotal
Contingency

TOTAL

1,290

1,290
10,836

15%

1,290
7,458,489
1,118,773

10,836
497,871
74,681

$8,577,262

$572,551

1,290
65,016

15%

1,290
2,462,420
369,363

65,016
3,013,581
452,037

$2,831,783 $3,465,618

15%

212,736

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
54,180
119,196
3,417,761
512,664

$7,234

$3,930,425

1,290
65,016

15%

212,736
3,303,494
495,524

65,016
3,013,581
452,037

$3,799,018

$3,465,618

Notes: (1) for the year 5 footprint, Filter and drain production are assumed to continue after initial capital construction, so mobilization / demobilization would be avoided and the material will be processed from alluvium. The estimate assumes that the Zone 5 and 6/6a material for the remainder of the year 6 through 23 will be produced from quarried / crushed materials from on site.

Final Design op cost to 2029.xls


9/14/2006

283,348
65,016

15%

1,290
10,570,817
1,585,623

65,016
3,013,581
452,037

$12,156,439 $3,465,618

15%

283,348
3,100,846
465,127

65,016
52,890
117,906
3,411,471
511,721

$3,565,973 $3,923,192

Table 1
ENGINEERS OPERATION COST ESTIMATE

Engineers Sustaining Capital and Operations Cost Estimate


ACTIVITY/FEATURE
PROJECT
LOCATION
OWNER/CLIENT
DATE

Embankment and Drain Construction


Cerro Verde Primary Sulfide Project
Arequipa, Peru
SMCV/PD
25-Jul-06

2012 (Year 6)

Description

Replace
(Beginning of
Year)

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

CM
CM
SM
CM

2013 (Year 7)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

2014 (Year 8)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

2015 (Year 9)
Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

2016 (Year 10)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Sustaining

Operations

Quantity

Unit

Price

Capital Cost

Cost

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

826,248

1
L.S.
1
L.S.
9 month
1,041,000
t
211,000
t
20,000
CM
132,000
CM
18,000
CM
164,000
CM
22,000
CM
158,000
CM
200,000
SM
4,100
M
13,000
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

570,000
380,000
2,250,000
7,349,460
1,658,460
57,400
389,400
116,460
716,680
222,640
996,980
312,000
410,000
245,960
15,675,440

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

475,640
498,490
123,240
955,000

SUSTAINING CAPITAL COST


Equipment
Cat D6R Tractor, Crawler, LGP, Blade
6-ton Tandom Smooth Drum Roller, Vib., Towed
8-ton Vibratory Roller Self Propelled
Lights
Lubrication Truck
Pickup
Sprinkler System (dust control)
Tools
Computers and Software
Sub-total

5.00
3.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
1.00

3
2

417,600
326,960
6
75,000
3,500
5,000
824,560

66,000

182,000
5,000
253,000

3
2

5,000
5,000

417,600
326,960
1
75,000
2
1

5,000
824,560

205,000

62,000
5,000
1,098,248

Drains
Mobilization (1)
Demobilization (1)
Site Establishment
Produce Drain Material (Zone 6 and 6A)
Produce Filter Material (Zone 5)
Filter Zone 5 Placement - Blanket Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - Blanket Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 1st Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 1st Order Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Geotextile
Drain Pipe
Nilex Strip Drains
Sub-total
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 5 Placement
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 6 and 6A Placement
Geotextile
Blanket over Limestone in Impoundment (Waste Rock)
Mechanical Placement of Underflow at Toe Drain
Sub-total

47,000
79,000
79,000
382,000

CM
CM
SM
CM

2,052,370
15%

Unlisted Items (15%)


Construction Management and QA/QC (15%)
Total

15%

15%

15%

15%

2,659,172

3,058,047

824,560

253,000

5,000

824,560

24,543,277

OPERATIONS
Labor
Operators (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Mechanic (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Oiler (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Laborer (Tech II) (6 each, 3 shifts)
Foreman (1 each, 3 shifts)
Embankment Construction Manager (1 each, 8 hour shift)
Total
Equipment
Engines, Transmission, Parts
Fuel
Lubricants
Undercarriage
Total

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

LS

75,000.00

75,000
75,000

ENGINEERING
Quality Assurance
Office Support - Lima
Site Manager (1 each, 1 shift)
Shift Manager (Tech IV) (1 each, 2 shifts)
Inspector (Tech III) (2 each, 3 shifts)
Lab Technician (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Total
Instrumentation
Total
Survey
Surveyor (Tech III) (2 each, 1 shift)
Total
Project Management
Inspection, Review, Meetings
Design Cost
Embankment Investigation and Analysis and Instrumentation Design
Annual Report
External Technical Review Board
Total

LS

LS

LS

LS

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1
1

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00
140,000.00
20,000.00
67,500.00

50,000
50,000

20,000.00
67,500.00

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

1
1

1
1
1

140,000
20,000
67,500
327,500

1
1

1
1

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

50,000
50,000

1
1

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

20,000
67,500
187,500

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

200,000

20,000.00
67,500.00
200,000

FREIGHT & TARIFFS (25.8% of Associated Cost)


Equipment
Operations Equipment
Engineering Instrumentation
Total
Subtotal
Contingency

TOTAL
Notes: (1) for the year 5 footprint, Filter and drain production are assumed to continue a

Final Design op cost to 2029.xls


9/14/2006

212,736

65,274
65,016

15%

212,736
1,037,296
155,594

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$1,192,891 $3,387,993

15%

65,274
318,274
47,741

1,290
65,016
19,350
84,366
3,180,431
477,065

$366,015 $3,657,496

212,736
65,016

15%

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$7,234 $3,387,993

283,348
65,016

15%

212,736
1,237,296
185,594

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$1,422,891

$3,387,993

65,016

15%

283,348
24,826,625
3,723,994

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$28,550,618 $3,387,993

Table 1
ENGINEERS OPERATION COST ESTIMATE

Engineers Sustaining Capital and Operations Cost Estimate


ACTIVITY/FEATURE
PROJECT
LOCATION
OWNER/CLIENT
DATE

Embankment and Drain Construction


Cerro Verde Primary Sulfide Project
Arequipa, Peru
SMCV/PD
25-Jul-06

2017 (Year 11)

Description

Replace
(Beginning of
Year)

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

CM
CM
SM
CM

2018 (Year 12)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

2019 (Year 13)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

2020 (Year 14)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

2021 (Year 15)


Sustaining

Operations

Quantity

Unit

Price

Capital Cost

Cost

3
3
2

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

826,248
417,600
326,960

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

SUSTAINING CAPITAL COST


Equipment
Cat D6R Tractor, Crawler, LGP, Blade
6-ton Tandom Smooth Drum Roller, Vib., Towed
8-ton Vibratory Roller Self Propelled
Lights
Lubrication Truck
Pickup
Sprinkler System (dust control)
Tools
Computers and Software
Sub-total

5.00
3.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
1.00

3
2

5,000
5,000

417,600
326,960

75,000

5,000
824,560

3,500
5,000
5,000

66,000
1
3
182,000
2
1

5,000
253,000

205,000
75,000
62,000
5,000
1,917,808

Drains
Mobilization (1)
Demobilization (1)
Site Establishment
Produce Drain Material (Zone 6 and 6A)
Produce Filter Material (Zone 5)
Filter Zone 5 Placement - Blanket Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - Blanket Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 1st Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 1st Order Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Geotextile
Drain Pipe
Nilex Strip Drains
Sub-total
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 5 Placement
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 6 and 6A Placement
Geotextile
Blanket over Limestone in Impoundment (Waste Rock)
Mechanical Placement of Underflow at Toe Drain
Sub-total

420,000

1,050,000
1,050,000

15%

Unlisted Items (15%)


Construction Management and QA/QC (15%)
Total

15%

15%

15%

15%

157,500

181,125

5,000

824,560

5,000

253,000

3,306,433

OPERATIONS
Labor
Operators (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Mechanic (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Oiler (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Laborer (Tech II) (6 each, 3 shifts)
Foreman (1 each, 3 shifts)
Embankment Construction Manager (1 each, 8 hour shift)
Total
Equipment
Engines, Transmission, Parts
Fuel
Lubricants
Undercarriage
Total

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

LS

55,000.00

55,000
55,000

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

50,000
50,000

1
1

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

20,000
67,500
187,500

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

ENGINEERING
Quality Assurance
Office Support - Lima
Site Manager (1 each, 1 shift)
Shift Manager (Tech IV) (1 each, 2 shifts)
Inspector (Tech III) (2 each, 3 shifts)
Lab Technician (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Total
Instrumentation
Total
Survey
Surveyor (Tech III) (2 each, 1 shift)
Total
Project Management
Inspection, Review, Meetings
Design Cost
Embankment Investigation and Analysis and Instrumentation Design
Annual Report
External Technical Review Board
Total

LS

LS

LS

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1
0.25

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00
140,000.00
20,000.00
67,500.00

50,000
50,000

20,000.00
67,500.00

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

1
1

1
1
1

140,000
20,000
67,500
327,500

1
1

1
1

50,000

20,000.00
67,500.00
50,000

FREIGHT & TARIFFS (25.8% of Associated Cost)


Equipment
Operations Equipment
Engineering Instrumentation
Total
Subtotal
Contingency

TOTAL
Notes: (1) for the year 5 footprint, Filter and drain production are assumed to continue a

Final Design op cost to 2029.xls


9/14/2006

1,290

212,736
65,016

15%

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$7,234 $3,387,993

15%

212,736
1,037,296
155,594

1,290
65,016
14,190
79,206
3,155,271
473,291

$1,192,891 $3,628,562

65,274
65,016

15%

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$7,234

$3,387,993

494,794
65,016

15%

65,274
368,274
55,241

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$423,515 $3,387,993

65,016

15%

494,794
3,801,227
570,184

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$4,371,412

$3,387,993

Table 1
ENGINEERS OPERATION COST ESTIMATE

Engineers Sustaining Capital and Operations Cost Estimate


ACTIVITY/FEATURE
PROJECT
LOCATION
OWNER/CLIENT
DATE

Embankment and Drain Construction


Cerro Verde Primary Sulfide Project
Arequipa, Peru
SMCV/PD
25-Jul-06

2022 (Year 16)

Description

Replace
(Beginning of
Year)

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

CM
CM
SM
CM

2023 (Year 17)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

2024 (Year 18)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

2025 (Year 19)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

2026 (Year 20)


Sustaining

Operations

Quantity

Unit

Price

Capital Cost

Cost

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

826,248

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

SUSTAINING CAPITAL COST


Equipment
Cat D6R Tractor, Crawler, LGP, Blade
6-ton Tandom Smooth Drum Roller, Vib., Towed
8-ton Vibratory Roller Self Propelled
Lights
Lubrication Truck
Pickup
Sprinkler System (dust control)
Tools
Computers and Software
Sub-total

5.00
3.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
1.00

5,000
5,000

3
2

5,000
5,000

417,600
326,960

75,000

5,000
824,560

2
1

5,000
5,000

205,000

62,000
5,000
1,098,248

Drains
Mobilization (1)
Demobilization (1)
Site Establishment
Produce Drain Material (Zone 6 and 6A)
Produce Filter Material (Zone 5)
Filter Zone 5 Placement - Blanket Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - Blanket Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 1st Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 1st Order Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Geotextile
Drain Pipe
Nilex Strip Drains
Sub-total
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 5 Placement
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 6 and 6A Placement
Geotextile
Blanket over Limestone in Impoundment (Waste Rock)
Mechanical Placement of Underflow at Toe Drain
Sub-total

15%

Unlisted Items (15%)


Construction Management and QA/QC (15%)
Total

15%

15%

15%

15%

5,000

5,000

824,560

5,000

1,098,248

OPERATIONS
Labor
Operators (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Mechanic (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Oiler (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Laborer (Tech II) (6 each, 3 shifts)
Foreman (1 each, 3 shifts)
Embankment Construction Manager (1 each, 8 hour shift)
Total
Equipment
Engines, Transmission, Parts
Fuel
Lubricants
Undercarriage
Total

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

LS

65,000.00

65,000
65,000

ENGINEERING
Quality Assurance
Office Support - Lima
Site Manager (1 each, 1 shift)
Shift Manager (Tech IV) (1 each, 2 shifts)
Inspector (Tech III) (2 each, 3 shifts)
Lab Technician (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Total
Instrumentation
Total
Survey
Surveyor (Tech III) (2 each, 1 shift)
Total
Project Management
Inspection, Review, Meetings
Design Cost
Embankment Investigation and Analysis and Instrumentation Design
Annual Report
External Technical Review Board
Total

LS

LS

LS

LS

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1

1
1

50,000
50,000

1
1

50,000
50,000

1
1

50,000
50,000

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

1
1

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

140,000
20,000
67,500
327,500

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00
140,000.00
20,000.00
67,500.00

50,000
50,000

20,000.00
67,500.00

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

1
1

1
1
1

FREIGHT & TARIFFS (25.8% of Associated Cost)


Equipment
Operations Equipment
Engineering Instrumentation
Total
Subtotal
Contingency

TOTAL
Notes: (1) for the year 5 footprint, Filter and drain production are assumed to continue a

Final Design op cost to 2029.xls


9/14/2006

1,290

1,290
65,016

15%

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$7,234

$3,387,993

15%

1,290
6,290
944

212,736
65,016
16,770
81,786
3,167,851
475,178

$7,234 $3,643,029

1,290
65,016

15%

212,736
1,037,296
155,594

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$1,192,891 $3,387,993

283,348
65,016

15%

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$7,234 $3,387,993

65,016

15%

283,348
1,381,596
207,239

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$1,588,835

$3,387,993

Table 1
ENGINEERS OPERATION COST ESTIMATE

Engineers Sustaining Capital and Operations Cost Estimate


ACTIVITY/FEATURE
PROJECT
LOCATION
OWNER/CLIENT
DATE

Embankment and Drain Construction


Cerro Verde Primary Sulfide Project
Arequipa, Peru
SMCV/PD
25-Jul-06

2027 (Year 21)

Description

Replace
(Beginning of
Year)

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

CM
CM
SM
CM

2028 (Year 22)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

2029 (Year 23)


Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

Quantity

Unit

Price

EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
EA
M
LOT
LS

275,416.00
139,200.00
163,480.00
11,000.00
205,000.00
25,000.00
52.00
31,000.00
5,000.00

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

L.S.
L.S.
month
t
t
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
CM
SM
M
M

570,000
380,000
250,000
7.06
7.86
2.87
2.95
6.47
4.37
10.12
6.31
1.56
100.00
18.92

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

CM
CM
SM
CM

10.12
6.31
1.56
2.50

Sustaining

Operations

Capital Cost

Cost

SUSTAINING CAPITAL COST


Equipment
Cat D6R Tractor, Crawler, LGP, Blade
6-ton Tandom Smooth Drum Roller, Vib., Towed
8-ton Vibratory Roller Self Propelled
Lights
Lubrication Truck
Pickup
Sprinkler System (dust control)
Tools
Computers and Software
Sub-total

5.00
3.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
3.00
7.00
5.00
1.00

3
2
6
3
3,500
1

417,600
326,960
66,000
75,000
182,000
5,000
1,072,560

5,000
5,000

5,000
5,000

Drains
Mobilization (1)
Demobilization (1)
Site Establishment
Produce Drain Material (Zone 6 and 6A)
Produce Filter Material (Zone 5)
Filter Zone 5 Placement - Blanket Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - Blanket Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 1st Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 1st Order Drain
Filter Zone 5 Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Drain Zone 6 and 6A Placement - 2nd Order Drain
Geotextile
Drain Pipe
Nilex Strip Drains
Sub-total
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 5 Placement
Blanket Drain over Limestone Zone 6 and 6A Placement
Geotextile
Blanket over Limestone in Impoundment (Waste Rock)
Mechanical Placement of Underflow at Toe Drain
Sub-total

15%

Unlisted Items (15%)


Construction Management and QA/QC (15%)
Total

15%

15%

1,072,560

5,000

5,000

OPERATIONS
Labor
Operators (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Mechanic (Tech IV) (3 each, 3 shifts)
Oiler (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Laborer (Tech II) (6 each, 3 shifts)
Foreman (1 each, 3 shifts)
Embankment Construction Manager (1 each, 8 hour shift)
Total
Equipment
Engines, Transmission, Parts
Fuel
Lubricants
Undercarriage
Total

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

26,280
26,280
8,760
52,560
8,760
2,920

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

2.59
2.59
2.33
2.07
6.91
20.83

68,065
68,065
20,411
108,799
60,532
60,824
386,696

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

3
210,000
26,280
6

EA
GAL
HR
EA

42,000.00
2.52
5.00
21,000.00

126,000
529,200
131,400
126,000
912,600

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

120
2,920
5,840
17,520
8,760

HR
HR
HR
HR
HR

100.00
75.00
45.48
20.47
18.20

12,000
219,000
265,603
358,634
159,432
1,014,670

ENGINEERING
Quality Assurance
Office Support - Lima
Site Manager (1 each, 1 shift)
Shift Manager (Tech IV) (1 each, 2 shifts)
Inspector (Tech III) (2 each, 3 shifts)
Lab Technician (Tech III) (1 each, 3 shifts)
Total
Instrumentation
Total
Survey
Surveyor (Tech III) (2 each, 1 shift)
Total
Project Management
Inspection, Review, Meetings
Design Cost
Embankment Investigation and Analysis and Instrumentation Design
Annual Report
External Technical Review Board
Total

LS

LS

LS

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

5,840

HR

65.00

379,600
379,600

1
1

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00

50,000
50,000

1
1

20,000
67,500
187,500

1
1

20,000.00
67,500.00

20,000
67,500
187,500

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

50,000.00
50,000.00
200,000.00
140,000.00
20,000.00
67,500.00

50,000
50,000

20,000.00
67,500.00

LS
LS
LS
LS
LS
LS

1
1

2
1
1

20,000
67,500
187,500

FREIGHT & TARIFFS (25.8% of Associated Cost)


Equipment
Operations Equipment
Engineering Instrumentation
Total
Subtotal
Contingency

TOTAL
Notes: (1) for the year 5 footprint, Filter and drain production are assumed to continue a

Final Design op cost to 2029.xls


9/14/2006

276,720

1,290
65,016

15%

276,720
1,349,280
202,392

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$1,551,673

$3,387,993

1,290
65,016

15%

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$7,234

$3,387,993

65,016

15%

1,290
6,290
944

65,016
2,946,081
441,912

$7,234

$3,387,993

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