Abstract:Purpose: To investigate the hidden disaster-causing factors in mined-out areas of mines using the open-stope method, determine the disaster prevention and control levels, and prevent mining safety accidents, a comprehensive survey on hidden disaster-causing factors in mined-out areas using the open-stope method was conducted. Methods: Using Qianjinda Mining as a case study, a multi-method survey scheme was designed to investigate the hidden disaster-causing factors in mined-out areas using the open-stope method. A combination of data collection, on-site investigation, geophysical detection, drilling detection, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation was employed to detect the remaining mined-out areas, analyze their stability, and assess the risks. Result: The multi-method approach provided mutual verification, revealing the distribution and water accumulation conditions in the mined-out areas, and determining the instability levels of these areas. Conclusion: Numerical simulation results indicate a risk of local instability in the mined-out areas under the current stress conditions. The four-dimensional coupling comprehensive characterization results show that 15 mined-out areas have a medium instability risk level (Level II), while 3 areas have a higher instability risk level (Level III). Corresponding measures and suggestions were proposed. The research findings provide certain guidance for the investigation and management of hidden disaster-causing factors in mined-out areas of open-stope mines in China.