A Practical Handbook for Heap Leaching in Guyana's Small and Medium-scale Gold Mining Sector

Synopsis

This handbook offers a comprehensive and technically sound framework for implementing environmentally responsible heap leaching operations specifically tailored for Guyana’s Small and Medium-scale Gold Mining (SMS) sector. As the industry evolves towards more efficient mineral processing, this guide is an essential resource for mining engineers and technicians. It addresses critical aspects such as ore characterisation, optimal pad construction, and effective cyanide management to maximise gold recovery rates. The handbook also clarifies the environmental standards and safety protocols mandated by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ensuring regulatory compliance. Furthermore, this guide champions environmental stewardship by detailing best practices for containment, leak detection, and post-leach detoxification processes, aiming to minimise the ecological footprint of mining activities. It establishes rigorous procedures for the safe handling of hazardous chemicals, prioritising the protection of workers and nearby riverine communities. By bridging traditional mining methods with modern chemical processing, this handbook seeks to foster a more sustainable, professionalised, and economically beneficial mining culture in Guyana, all while safeguarding its rich biodiversity.