What factors determine the width and height of benches in surface operations?

In surface operations, the width and height of benches are largely influenced by the equipment used and the operations performed. This is because different types of equipment have varying capabilities and requirements, which directly impact how benches are designed and executed. For example, larger haul trucks may necessitate wider benches to accommodate their size and the angle of ascent or descent, whereas smaller equipment may require narrower benches. Additionally, the nature of the operations being performed—such as drilling, blasting, or material removal—requires specific bench dimensions to ensure safety, efficiency, and accessibility for operators.

Other factors may play a role in bench design, but the primary determinant revolves around the operational needs and the equipment being utilized. While the type of material extracted may affect particular aspects of site design, the overarching influence of equipment and operations takes precedence in defining the practical dimensions of the benches.