Mining and metals, Canada Environmental compliance audit of a nickel mine

Summary

EEM was retained several times to conduct environmental compliance audits of a nickel mine located in Quebec’s extreme north. In 2012 and 2015, the scope of the audit included the verification of the mine’s hazardous waste disposal service provider.

Approach and Solution

The approach adopted by EEM for the audit rested on the principles outlined in CSA’s standard Z773-03 (R2013) for environmental compliance auditing. It included follow-up on the status of previous compliance audit findings and the issuance of recommendations for corrective action. A two-person team of experienced auditors conducted the audit.

Results

The audit facilitated the identification of actual and potential non-compliance issues. Field observations created occasions to discuss regulatory matters and provide regulatory awareness training to facility employees and contractors.