The safety work on the old metal mines, related to Recylex S.A.’s legacy, mainly consists of surface works such as the dismantling of old mining buildings, the transformationof slopes and the securing of the controlled run-off of surface water (e.g. rainwater) to ensure its long-term stability.
Depending on the physico-chemical properties of the materials, it may be necessary to seal the old mining galleries with clay and topsoil. When working underground, it is essential that the mine entrances are permanently sealed against unauthorised access. If protected animal species can be found in the mines, special concrete walls with outlets are installed to allow the animals to get outside.
Some examples:
– Clay and topsoil workson the colliery site (the above-ground area to be assigned to a mine),
– Closure of the mine galleries with concrete,
– Planting and revegetation of old mining deposits,
– Closure of mine entrances in consideration of the protected habitats of bats