FMEA of a tailings dam

Abstract

The concepts, principles, assumptions and fundamental rules of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) are introduced. An application to Cerro do Lobo tailings dam is presented, with the description of the system considered, the functionalities, the potential failure modes of each component, their corresponding root causes and the sequence of effects. Finally, the available measures in place for the detection and control of the sequence of effects are also identified. Although FMEA application in complex dam systems may constitute a time consuming process, its outcome can be extremely useful as illustrated in this article. It makes it possible to assess and manage the major risks of dams so that mitigation actions, taken at an early stage, can be optimised from an efficiency standpoint.