Archive · 9 Dec 2025
Chilean Regulator Flags Safety Risks at Teck's Quebrada Blanca Dam
Teck's Quebrada Blanca copper mine in Chile has had some problems with its tailings dam, which is like a big wall that holds mine waste.
Workers noticed leaks and a big crack in the dam and told the mining regulator, Sernageomin, about it.
Sernageomin inspected the dam and found a large crack and some water leaks.
They told Teck to report any problems quickly.
Teck said the dam is safe and they fixed the issues.
They are also sending weekly reports to the regulator to make sure everything is okay.
Some people think these problems might be why Teck wants to merge with another company, Anglo American.
The mine's production targets were lowered, and Teck plans to spend money next year to make improvements.
Workers at Teck's Quebrada Blanca mine reported leaks and a large crack in the tailings dam to Chilean regulator Sernageomin.
Sernageomin inspections in August 2024 identified a 240-meter crack and water pools at the base of the dam wall.
Teck was criticized for not promptly reporting the issues and assured that the dam is stable and safe.
Teck has been sending weekly monitoring reports to Sernageomin and has fixed the issues, according to the company.
Analysts suggest the issues at Quebrada Blanca may have prompted Teck to seek a merger with Anglo American.
- Who
- Teck, Chilean regulator Sernageomin, workers at Quebrada Blanca mine
- What
- Safety concerns raised over a large crack and leaks at the tailings dam
- When
- Issues identified in late July 2024, inspections conducted in August 2024
- Where
- Quebrada Blanca copper mine in Chile
- Why
- Workers and regulator flagged potential safety risks, Teck responded with monitoring and repairs
- Company
- Teck
- Mine
- Quebrada Blanca
- Location
- Chile
- Issue
- Crack and leaks in tailings dam
- Regulator
- Sernageomin
- Crack Length
- 240 meters
- Gap Size
- 18 centimeters
- Teck's Response
- Dam is stable and safe, issues fixed