Infrastructure Resilience and Vulnerability AnalysisSupply Chain Resilience and Risk ManagementOccupational Health and Safety Research
DOI: 10.17159/2411-9717/2396/2025

Abstract

Given the inherent risks and disruptions in underground coal mining operations, strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure has become a vital priority. This paper aims to evaluate the resilience of the underground coal mining environment using historical data and expert judgment. The study serves as a framework for optimising the utilisation of critical infrastructure to minimise operational disturbances. To achieve this, a practical methodology has been developed, incorporating nearly two and a half years of collected operational data, a hierarchical structure, and a systematic approach. Furthermore, a case study is conducted to demonstrate the real-world applicability of the proposed method. Finally, the resilience index is introduced as a straightforward summation of ranked impact factors, providing a clear metric for resilience assessment.

Citation format

MASIR, R. N.; ATAEI, M.; SERESHKI, F. A novel index for resilience measure of critical infrastructure systems in underground coal mines based on the operating environment: Case-study. JOURNAL OF THE SOUTHERN AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF MINING AND METALLURGY, 2026, 125(12): 683–694.