Giant Mine Remediation Project

The Giant Mine Remediation Project is one of the largest and most complex environmental cleanups in Canada. The site, once a gold mine operating from 1948 to 2004, is heavily contaminated, particularly with 237,000 tons of arsenic trioxide, a toxic byproduct of the gold extraction process.

The project aims to stabilize and contain the contamination. One of the primary methods being used involves freezing the arsenic trioxide in place using thermosyphons, which lower the temperature around the underground chambers to prevent the toxic material from leaching into the environment. This process will continue indefinitely until a more permanent solution is found.

The remediation work, which includes building a water treatment plant, cleaning up waste rock and tailings, and backfilling underground voids, is expected to extend until at least 2038—seven years longer than originally planned. The project is also focused on providing economic benefits to local and Indigenous communities, with nearly half of the contracts awarded so far going to Indigenous contractors.

Engineered Containment's Contribution

Engineered Containment was selected to supply the concrete liner for the Giant Mine Remediation Project's arsenic-contaminated water vaults due to their specialized expertise in concrete protective liners and their commitment to delivering high-quality workmanship. The decision to involve Engineered Containment was driven by the project's need for a reliable and durable solution to contain the hazardous arsenic trioxide stored in the underground chambers.

The company's role extends beyond just supplying the concrete liner; they are also responsible for all welding and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) processes associated with the liner installation. This comprehensive responsibility ensures that the liner meets the stringent safety and performance standards required for such a critical containment application. Engineered Containment's proven track record in managing complex environmental projects, coupled with their engineering expertise, made them an ideal partner for this challenging aspect of the Giant Mine Remediation Project.

Their involvement underscores the importance of having specialized contractors who can deliver not only materials but also the meticulous installation and verification needed to secure one of Canada's most contaminated sites. This work is vital to the long-term stability and safety of the underground arsenic trioxide storage, ensuring that the contamination is effectively isolated from the environment.