Objectives:
The 2nd edition of the Guidelines for Open Pit Slope Design updates and expands the original 2009 publication, reflecting advances in technology, industry practice, and best practice over the past 20 years. Comprised of 13 chapters, the new edition follows the life-of-mine sequence from project commencement through closure, covering key topics such as field data collection for 3D geotechnical modeling, data collation for pit wall design, implementation of design, wall control, performance assessment, blasting, scaling, slope support, monitoring, and the application of formal risk management at each stage. The Guidelines aim to help practitioners ensure pit slope safety, maximize ore recovery, and optimize financial return throughout the mine’s life.
Building on the structure of the first edition, the 2nd edition incorporates multiple chapter leads selected to provide diverse perspectives across geography, gender, and professional background, including consulting, academia, industry, and instrumentation and software providers. Initial drafts will undergo iterative reviews by editors, with independent subject matter experts engaged where needed. Chapters will then be circulated to LOP sponsors for input, with revisions made to ensure consistency, technical accuracy, and alignment with industry standards.
The updated Guidelines reflect accumulated industry knowledge and lessons learned over the last two decades, providing a comprehensive, authoritative reference for open pit slope design. The Guidelines will be primarily published as an eBook, with digital print copies also available for sponsors and the public. By consolidating current best practices, the 2nd edition supports the mining industry in achieving safe, stable, and efficient open pit operations while promoting standardization, risk-informed decision-making, and the adoption of proven engineering methods across diverse projects.