CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

In mining surveying, what is an adit?

1. A main haulage road underground

2. A tunnel for drainage and ventilation

3. An excavation made at the bottom of a shaft

4. A surface marking point

The correct answer is: A tunnel for drainage and ventilation

In mining surveying, an adit refers specifically to a horizontal or nearly horizontal tunnel that is excavated into a hillside or mountain for purposes such as drainage and ventilation of underground workings. This structure serves critical functions in ensuring that mines are adequately ventilated, which is essential for the safety of miners. Additionally, it can facilitate the drainage of groundwater that may collect within the mine, preventing flooding and allowing for safer working conditions. The key aspects that differentiate an adit from other types of underground workings include its orientation and purpose: it is primarily horizontal and is designed to alleviate ventilation challenges and manage water. While other terms may relate to various features of underground mining, such as transportation routes or vertical shafts, the definition of an adit is specifically aligned with the needs for air flow and drainage in mining operations.