Antofagasta Minerals · Minera Centinela
Containment under a conveyor and first response during a dome rebuild
- Client
- Antofagasta Minerals
- Site
- Minera Centinela · Antofagasta Region
The challenge
Material falling from the conveyor belt built up on the stockpile dome until one of its eight segments caved in. The falling material had to be stopped, and then the dome rebuilt without exposing anyone more than necessary.
Phase 1 · Containment at 50 meters
Eight rope access technicians installed high-tonnage trays under the conveyor, 50 m up and along its length, working on rope with crane support. That cut off the source of the problem.
Phase 2 · ITO and first response
Another company was in charge of rebuilding the segment, and Centinela entrusted AMS with field oversight of the work. We worked 14×14 rotations, with four rescue-certified ITO inspectors per shift. We reviewed documentation, PPE use and procedures, supported the maneuvers and remained on top of the dome, ready for a rescue.