ICMM commits to creation of international standard for tailings dams

The International Council on Mining & Metals (ICMM) has announced its governing Council of 27 member CEOs will establish an independent panel of experts to develop an international standard for tailings facilities for its member companies. 

The standard will be informed by a review of current global best practices in the mining industry, and beyond. It is expected to create a step change for the industry in the safety and security of these facilities. The details of the standard will be defined through the review process but are expected to include: 

• A global and transparent consequence-based tailings facility classification system with appropriate requirements for each level of classification.
• A system for credible, independent reviews of tailings facilities.
• Requirements for emergency planning and preparedness.

Tom Butler ICMM’s Chief Executive Officer commented: “ICMM CEOs have committed to creating a step change for the industry in the safety of tailings facilities by developing a recognised international standard for member companies. The standard will be based on best practices to ensure that tailings facility risks are managed appropriately, consistently, and transparently. While the standard would become a member commitment, ICMM will encourage others to join us in advocating for it to be adopted more broadly.”

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ICMM will engage with representatives from civil society, communities, industry, investors, and multilateral organisations, to determine the detailed scope of the review. The review will be carried out by a team of experts from diverse disciplines, led by an independent chair and is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.
 
Also, ICMM’s CEOs agreed to initiate work to: (i) define technical guidance for the safe design, construction, operation, and closure of tailings facilities, by drawing upon existing technical best practice; (ii) develop capacity and a database to facilitate learning and knowledge sharing across the industry; and (iii) consider ways to leverage member resources to enhance and optimise the industry’s existing research and training initiatives.
 
ICMM is an international organisation dedicated to a safe, fair and sustainable mining and metals industry which brings together 27 mining and metals companies and over 30 regional and commodities associations. Every ICMM member company adheres to 10 Principles and 8 Position Statements on issues relating to sustainable development.