Audits
Key Questions for Optimal Use of Mine Seismology Services
© 2026 RockFlow Solutions (Pty) Ltd To ensure effective use of mine seismology services, the following questions should be posed periodically: On Data Collection
Quality is defined as the totality of features and characteristics of a service or product that bear on its ability to satisfy stated or implied needs.
(ISO 8402, 1986) This implies that quality should be judged relative to defined requirements, i.e., in terms of expectations and needs, rather than in absolute terms.
Seismic Service Audits – Overview
The quality of raw seismograms is primarily determined by:
Seismic Monitoring Score Card
Based on SIM050302 – SIMRAC 2006
System Design According to Monitoring Objectives (30%)
Seismic System Operation and Data Collection (40%)
Seismic Data Analysis Procedures (30%)
© 2026 RockFlow Solutions (Pty) Ltd To ensure effective use of mine seismology services, the following questions should be posed periodically: On Data Collection
- Have monitoring objectives been clearly formulated?
- Are system configuration and performance aligned with monitoring objectives?
- Are quality assurance procedures in place?
- Is the seismic system operated efficiently?
- Are operators competent and trained?
- Do analysis methods follow recognised best practice?
- Are methods effective in delivering required outputs?
- Is the format in which results are presented suitable for operational use?
- Are reporting intervals appropriate?
- Is there sufficient capacity to deliver required services?
- Are customer requirements being satisfied?
- Does the information provided add value to the operation?
- Are procedures in place to ensure timely response to critical information?
- Are recipients proficient in using seismic information?
- Are all legal and regulatory requirements being met?
Quality is defined as the totality of features and characteristics of a service or product that bear on its ability to satisfy stated or implied needs.
(ISO 8402, 1986) This implies that quality should be judged relative to defined requirements, i.e., in terms of expectations and needs, rather than in absolute terms.
Seismic Service Audits – Overview
The quality of raw seismograms is primarily determined by:
- Low background noise levels
- Clear P- and S-wave arrivals, each with a steep rise and complete waveform
- Sufficient sampling frequency to accurately capture ground motion
Seismic Monitoring Score Card
Based on SIM050302 – SIMRAC 2006
System Design According to Monitoring Objectives (30%)
- Mine subdivided into zones of varying seismic hazard
- Monitoring objectives defined per hazard district
- Objectives translated into required network performance
- Network designed according to performance requirements within access constraints
- Network installed according to design specifications
- Calibration blasts conducted to verify velocity model and location accuracy
- Design process and motivation documented
Seismic System Operation and Data Collection (40%)
- Station downtime < 20% over past year, no deterioration over time
- ≥ 80% of sensors fully functional and stable over time
- Adequate resources for maintenance and upgrades
- Raw seismic data quality controlled
- Minimum of 5 stations per event; 8 picks; 8 spectra
- Data backup procedures in place
- Magnitude scaling adjusted to CGS catalogue; time base calibrated
- System operation & maintenance procedures documented
- Annual review performed (internal or external)
Seismic Data Analysis Procedures (30%)
- Emergency event location capability
- Back-analysis of large events
- Short-, medium-, and long-term seismic hazard procedures
- Information exchange with other disciplines (production, geology, rock engineering, safety)
- Assessment of seismic information needs for recipients
- Written procedures for communication, roles, and responsibilities adopted
- Performance of methods assessed; improvements implemented
- 2–3 yearly review of procedures by external parties; results documented