Geotechnical
Excavated faces, tips, stockpiles and lagoons are key structures.
All quarry structures must be designed, constructed and maintained in accordance with the Quarries Regulations 1999. The
principal objective is to establish a safe working environment. Additional benefits should include:
- Improved operational efficiency
- Efficient quarry layouts and maximised mineral reserves
- A secure environment for quarry afteruse
Geotechnical input into quarry design requires a clear understanding of the 3 principal factors controlling the stability
of excavated faces, tips and lagoons, namely:
- Structural setting
- Strength of rock mass or placed materials
- Water conditions
Professor Walton advised the Health & Safety Executive on the content of the Regulations concerned with geotechnics (Regs. 30 to 37) and acts as an expert witness in matters concerned with slope stability in the quarries.