The importance of a qualified geotechnical professional in the declaration of mineral resources and reserves

THE public declaration of mineral resources and reserves is a technical and regulatory process essential to modern mining. This procedure requires not only methodological rigor, but also the signature of qualified professionals (Qualified Persons or Chartered Professionals), as required by international codes such as JORC, NI 43-101, CRIRSCO and SAMREC.

These professionals are responsible for ensuring that the data were obtained appropriately, that the methods used follow international standards, and that the technical and economic projections are consistent and safe.

Geotechnics: A Pillar of Technical-Economic Viability

In the context of engineering applied to mining, the performance of a Chartered Professional (CP) registered with recognized entities, such as AusIMM (Australia) or Engineers Canada, is strategic. This is because the geotechnics directly impacts the project feasibility, your operational sustainability and compliance with international security and ESG standards.

Main CP Activities in Geotechnics:

• Defining the geometry and design angles of open-pit mines, with stability analyses of slopes and pits;
  
• Assessment of tailings dams, waste rock piles and containment systems, influencing environmental and economic viability;
  
• Defining safety factors and acceptable risk criteria;
  
• Underground mining studies, with analysis of stresses and stability of excavations;
  
• Geotechnical dilution and recovery estimates, crucial for transforming resources into reserves;
  
• Mining support, containment and sequencing projects, which directly impact costs and operational continuity;
  
• Assessment of systemic geotechnical risks, with a focus on post-closure stability and environmental compliance.

   

Why Have a CP in Geotechnics From the Early Stages?

High-end mining projects already incorporate CPs specialized in Geotechnics from the preliminary stages of technical studies. This ensures:

• Technical robustness from the design stage;
  
• Reliability of data and simulations;
  
• Adherence to international best practices;
  
• Strengthening governance and transparency.

   

What about Brazil?

Although the Brazilian regulatory framework does not yet formally require the signature of QPs/CPs in accordance with international models, convergence with global best practices is already underway.

National Regulation Highlights:

• ANM Resolution No. 94: deals with RAL and RFP with the requirement of recognized technical methods;
  
• Normative Instruction No. 01/2022: provides guidance on the Economic Use Plan (PAE), reinforcing the importance of geotechnical stability and operational safety;
  
• ANM technical analysis: increasingly requires a robust technical basis and internationally accepted methodologies.

   

The inclusion of a Chartered Professional in the studies sent to ANM increases credibility, speeds up licensing processes, facilitates financing and increases acceptance in independent audits.

CP in Geotechnics: More than a Signature, a Commitment

Having a CP is not just a formality. It's a commitment to security, sustainability and transparency High-level. Their performance adds value to the project, ensures alignment with global standards, and directly contributes to the technical and reputational success of the operation.