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2.0 CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS <br /> 2.1 CONCLUSIONS <br /> • Large-scale failure of the Sunnyside Pit is unlikely because of the relatively strong <br /> rock and limited depth. The pit has a comparative factor of safety of roughly 2.0 <br /> based upon comparison of pit depth and slope angle to case history data. <br /> • There is potential for intermediate size, unstable wedges of rock to be formed by <br /> intersection of small faults mapped in Bench 1 of the north wall. These structures <br /> could be stabilized by rockbolts if they are detected. Several of the faults mapped <br /> in the north wall have orientations that would form plane failures in the south wall <br /> of the pit. <br /> • Joint sets mapped in Benches 1 and 2 of the north wall form unstable wedges that <br /> have failed and have been removed from the bench wall. These joint sets result in <br /> the blocky nature of the rock and will continue to cause loose materials on the slope <br /> faces. <br /> • The face angle in the talus material at the top of the east wall is too steep for <br /> long-term stability. The material poses a safety hazard because of its perched <br /> location and should be monitored for indications of instability. A change in water <br /> saturation could cause a rapid change in its stability. <br /> • Blast damage has been extensive in Benches 1 and 2 of the north wall. However, <br /> modifications in blasting practice have been made and appear to be improving the <br /> condition of the final wall. <br /> • Bench widths are below design limits due to the extensive rock damage and the <br /> blocky nature of the rock. Bench widths could be increased in conjunction with <br /> increasing the face angle to provide better catchment structures. <br /> • Vertical bench faces would improve the catching function of the benching because <br /> blocks will fall straight down onto the safety bench. <br /> 2 <br />