Keynote lecture: The reinforcement process in underground mining

This paper proposes a framework for reinforcement design in which the initial step is to determine the factors controlling stability of unsupported spans. Reinforcement schemes likely to match expected ground behaviour within an overall mining process are theft described. Suggested practical measures, including documentation, which can be considered following a rock fall are discussed. Practical ways to optimize reinforcement schemes on an actual underground mining environment are considered. Instrumentation, laboratory tests and quality control issues required during an optimization program are also analyzed.