Risk criteria classification and the evaluation of blasting operations in open pit mines by using the FDANP method
Purpose. Mineral projects are heavily influenced by risk factors. By providing evidence-based information and analysis to make informed decisions about how to choose between options, a risk assessment can be made. Methods. In this study, the relationships of 46 criteria and 10 dimensions affecting the risk of blasting operations were investigated in order to determine the significance, effectiveness, relative weight of the criteria and dimensions as well as to prioritize the risk criteria of blasting operations. For this purpose, the combination of the FDEMATEL method and FANP method are used as FDANP. Findings. The most important criterion is the lack of specialized knowledge (C1). The damage to manpower criterion (C46) will receive the greatest impact from other criteria. The criterion for implementing the explosion plan, without respecting the design principles (C12) has most interactions with other criteria and the failure to determine the amount of production capacity (low or high) criterion (C45) has the least interactions with other criteria. According to the FDANP method, the number of explosions in one stage (C14) is the first criterion of the blasting operations risk. Originality. By controlling this criterion, the effects and destructive consequences of blasting operations can be prevented. Controlling this criterion reduces the risk of blasting operations and also reduces the damage by C46 criterion. From comparison, human resources dimension (D1) is the most effective and natural hazards dimension (D10) has the greatest interactions with other dimensions and is most affected among the other dimensions. The production and extraction consideration dimension (D9) has the least interaction with other dimensions and is less important. Practical implications. By reducing the destructive effects of blasting operations, two favorable results will be achieved: the reduction of damage caused by undesirable consequences and the assignment of a greater share of blast energy to the desired outcomes.