NZQA Unit Standard 15666:  Analyse geology for underground extraction Version 6 credits 10

People credited with this unit standard can analyse the geological nature of a mineral orebody or deposit in relation to underground extraction methods, and evaluate the effects of geological features and associated hazards on underground mining methods and mine planning.

Performance criteria

1.1 The characteristics of a mineral orebody or deposit are analysed in relation to a given underground site. Range of geological features and structure, massive, bedded, vein, seam thickness, rock mass properties, igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic, strength, hardness, cleat, joints, faults, and folds, dip, strike, and plunge, density.

1.2 The various grades of mineral, metal, or sedimentary deposit are identified for the given site.

1.3 Sampling methods used to obtain a representative sample are described in terms of the analysis required for extractive sites. Range includes but is not limited to – channel, bulk, core drill, drill cuttings, test pits, augers, trenching, sample storage, and transport.

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