Introduction

Discontinuity Mapping is a critical skill in engineering geology, rock mechanics, mining geotechnics, tunneling, slope stability analysis, and geohazard assessment. It involves the systematic identification, measurement, and interpretation of structural features such as joints, faults, fractures, bedding planes, shear zones, and rock mass fabric. These discontinuities control the mechanical behaviour, strength, permeability, and stability of rock masses, making accurate mapping essential for safe and cost-effective design in open-pit mining, underground excavations, civil infrastructure, and dam foundations.

Discontinuity Mapping Training Course is designed to equip participants with cutting-edge competencies in mining industries. Participants will gain hands-on experience in transforming raw field data into actionable engineering decisions for slope stability modelling, excavation design, rockfall hazard mitigation, and mine planning optimisation using industry-standard workflows and case-driven learning.

Programme Curriculum

Discontinuity Mapping Training Course

Introduction

Course Duration

5 Days

Course Objectives

Master discontinuity characterization and rock mass classification (RMR, Q-System, GSI)
Apply advanced structural geology mapping techniques in field environments
Conduct accurate scanline and window mapping surveys
Interpret joint sets, fault systems, and fracture networks
Use stereonet analysis for geotechnical decision-making
Integrate LiDAR and drone-based photogrammetry in rock slope analysis
Perform kinematic analysis for slope failure prediction
Develop competency in rock mass stability and geohazard assessment
Apply GIS-based geotechnical data modelling
Conduct rock core logging and geotechnical logging standards
Build expertise in 3D geological modelling of discontinuities
Evaluate permeability and groundwater influence on rock stability
Design safe excavation and slope reinforcement strategies

Target Audience

Mining engineers (open-pit & underground)
Engineering geologists
Geotechnical engineers
Civil engineers in infrastructure projects
Rock mechanics specialists
Tunnel design engineers
Geological consultants
Environmental and geohazard specialists

Course Modules

Module 1: Fundamentals of Discontinuity Mapping

Types of discontinuities: joints, faults, bedding planes
Rock mass behaviour fundamentals
Field mapping principles and standards
Data recording techniques and field sheets
Orientation measurement using compass-clinometer
Case Study: Stability issues in fractured granite slope failure analysis

Module 2: Structural Geology for Engineering Applications

Stress regimes and structural formation
Identification of joint sets and fault kinematics
Structural domain analysis
Rock fabric interpretation
Structural mapping in complex terrains
Case Study: Tunnel collapse due to misinterpreted fault zone geometry

Module 3: Scanline & Window Mapping Techniques

Scanline survey methodology
Window mapping in exposed rock faces
Sampling bias correction techniques
Data density and spacing analysis
Field documentation standards
Case Study: Open-pit bench instability due to under-sampled joint sets

Module 4: Stereonet Analysis & Kinematic Modelling

Plotting discontinuities on stereonets
Kinematic failure analysis (planar, wedge, toppling)
Friction angle and slope geometry integration
Probability of failure assessment
Software-assisted stereographic projection
Case Study: Wedge failure in highway cut slope excavation

Module 5: Rock Mass Classification Systems

RMR (Rock Mass Rating) system
Q-System classification
Geological Strength Index (GSI)
Parameter weighting and adjustment
Engineering interpretation for design
Case Study: Underground mine stope design using RMR classification

Module 6: Digital Mapping Technologies (LiDAR, UAV, Photogrammetry)

Drone-based geological mapping workflows
LiDAR point cloud interpretation
3D surface reconstruction
Digital outcrop modelling
Integration with GIS platforms
Case Study: Landslide hazard mapping using UAV photogrammetry

Module 7: Rock Slope Stability & Hazard Assessment

Failure mechanisms in rock slopes
Rockfall and debris modelling
Water pressure influence
Reinforcement techniques (bolts, mesh, shotcrete)
Risk zoning and mitigation planning
Case Study: Railway corridor rockfall mitigation project

Module 8: Advanced 3D Modelling & Geotechnical Integration

3D discontinuity modelling workflows
GIS integration and spatial analysis
Numerical modelling inputs (FLAC3D/RS3 concepts)
Excavation design optimisation
Mine planning integration
Case Study: Open-pit slope redesign using 3D structural model

Training Methodology

Interactive lectures and presentations.
Group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
Hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.
Role-playing and scenario-based simulations.
Analysis of case studies to bridge theory and practice.
Peer-to-peer learning and networking.
Expert-led Q&A sessions.
Continuous feedback and personalized guidance.

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@fineskilltrainingcenter.org or call +254769199797

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to Fineskill Training Center account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.

Skills & Software Covered

Structural mapping Fracture analysis Rock mass characterization Field logging

Programme Fee

Duration: 5 Days

Method: Online or Physical

Online Price: $1,000

Physical Price: $1,500

Certification: Accredited Certificate

View Available Dates 📄 Download Course Outline (PDF)

Available Sessions

Location

Month

Year

Nov 02 2026

02 Nov — 06 Nov 2026

💻 Online / Virtual session

Online $1,000