Geological and Geo-Technological Risks

Recommended Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of environmental sciences, mathematics, physics, chemistry and geology.

Teaching Methods

Conducting Workgroups for discussion and thematic presentation

Planning and explanation of methodological steps for the realization of individual exercises, with presentation of final work report and the oral form

Using tools for calculation and statistical methods and projection mapping

Conducting fieldwork, with presentation of final work report

Use a computer software specific for self-learning

Work of observation and data collection in the field, with tutorial support

Tutorial support in answering questions and solving exercises

Support for the preparation of reports and oral presentation.

Learning Outcomes

With this course it is intended that students evaluate, quantitatively and qualitatively, the physical variables that determine the magnitude and severity of the risks induced by geological and exploration activities, processing and storage of geological materials. (A) We intent an introduction to research methodologies and analysis of susceptibility and vulnerability. (B) Promotes the acquisition of statistical tools and probabilistic risk, and resources for the production of thematic cartography. (C) We propose ways of identifying and promoting structural and non-structural prevention and minimization of risks, actions improve security and reliability of processes and actions management and integration in spatial planning.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1.Concepts of hazard, susceptibility, vulnerability and risk

2.Criteria and types of hazard classification

3.Definition of natural hazards according to the action, dynamics, prediction and prevention

4.Techniques of risk assessment, remote sensing, photo interpretation and historical evaluation

5.Mathematics probabilistic risk, random variables, distribution and common statistical parameters

6.Multivariate analysis and time series

7.Likelihood associated with processes internal and external geodynamics

8.Likelihood associated with climate processes and geoclimatic

9.Geochemistry and environmental health hazard

10.Prevision, surveillance and monitoring processes techniques

11.Geotechnical hazard induced and associated with mineral exploration

12.Criteria for safety and reliability in the process of exploitation geological materials

13.Structural and non-structural measures to mitigate and manage risks

14.Acquisition and processing of geo-referenced information in a GIS environment

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Report of a seminar or field trip: 10.0%
Laboratory work or Field work: 20.0%
Synthesis work: 30.0%
Resolution Problems: 40.0%

Bibliography

Abrmson, L.W.; Lee, T.S. Sharma, S.; Boyce, G.M. (2002) Slope Stabilization and stabilization methods, 2nd Ed., John Wiley & Sons; New York: 712p

Ayala-Carcedo, J. (2002). Riesgos naturales. Ed. Ariel Ciencia, Barcelona: 1512p

Committee on Surface Working (2001). Guidance for carrying out risk assessment at surface mining operations. Safety and Health Commission for the Mining and Other Extractive Industries, European Commission, 24p

Glade, T; Anderson, M; Crozier, M.J. (2005). Landslides hazard and risk. Ed. John Wiley & Sons, Inc, New York: 800p

Joy, J.; Griffiths, D. (2007) National Minerals Industry Safety and Health Risk Assessment Guideline. Version 6: Univ. of Queensland, Brisbane: 137p

Laín Huerta L. (2002). Los Sistemas de Información Geográfica en la Gestión de los Riesgos Geológicos y el Medio Ambiente. Inst. Geológico y Minero de España. Madrid, 288p

Matos, A.C.; Sousa, L.R.; Kierberger, J.; Pinto, P.L. (2004). Course on geothecnical risk in rock tunnels. Univ. de Aveiro