Since the first edition of the Guide was published in 1998, the tailings management framework has been applied at mining operations across Canada and around the world. During this time, the MAC Tailings Working Group has also developed two companion guides:
- Developing an Operation, Maintenance and Surveillance Manual for Tailings and Water Management Facilities (2003)
- A Guide to Audit and Assessment of Tailings Facility Management (2011)
This updated Guide reflects information and experience gained throughout the course of developing the companion guides and working with tailings management systems around the world. Together, the three MAC guides provide a strong and consistent message to tailings facility owners, operators and contractors: the key to safe and environmentally responsible management of tailings is the consistent application of sound engineering capability within an effective management framework and through the full life cycle of a facility.
