Geologists and surveyors have very important roles that complement each other in mining. This includes the discovery and assessment of mineral deposits and their efficient extraction.
Role of geologists in mining
Every year, Geologists are employed at every stage of a mining operation. This involves exploration and resource identification through such means as geological mapping, geophysical and geochemical surveys, and remote sensing. Secondly, they identify mineral deposits through the assessment of rock structure and mineralization. Lastly, during the mining process itself, they continue to evaluate the mineral deposit with a focus on grade control with the purpose of maximizing mineral extraction without incurring high costs.
Role of surveyors in mining
Mine surveyors apply scientific knowledge to create accurate maps of mineral deposits. The knowledge is employed to determine if it is economically sound and to ensure that the mine layout is accurate. These surveyors have current maps of mine layouts and calculate the amount of ore production. This is followed by calculating waste dump volumes. The surveyors collaborate with geologists to portion out the body of ores. This information is essential to mining engineers because it provides them with a means of efficiently extracting ores by maintaining the efficiency of processing plants.
While the role of geologists is to offer scientific knowledge concerning mineral deposits, the duty of surveyors is to interpret this information to produce mine data that ensures mineral extraction takes place in a manner that is efficient and sustainable. This is achieved through their cooperative efforts.
