Applying a Generalized FMEA Framework to an Oil Sands Tailings Dam Closure Plan in Alberta, Canada

Historically, tailings facilities have been designed primarily with consideration of the mine’s active life. This is problematic, as lifespan a dam may far exceed life mine. Over time, it expected that these structures will transform into mine waste structure and then eventually landform. In Alberta, Canada, owners can submit decommissioning, closure, abandonment (DCA) plan completion reports to apply for facility be de-registered dam. If successful, would considered solid reclassified regulated dump. The Alberta Energy Regulator expects DCAs accompanied supported by risk assessments consider long-term physical failure modes, including modes not applicable during operations, in accordance Manual 019. To help support process de-registering dam, management tool, referred Generalized Failure Modes Effects (G-FMEA) framework, was developed presented Journal Minerals Special Issue Tailings Dams: Design, Characterization, Monitoring, Risk Assessment. G-FMEA used assessing risks an external goal geotechnical de-registration. number dams are undergoing closure reclamation activities. paper applies framework oil sands demonstrate application framework. assesses two specific different elements, clogging drains surface erosion berm. assessed over timescales how consequence, likelihood, rating change time. results this discussed context potential