Hochschild Mining PLC,

Location: Iskut, British Columbia, Canada
Commodity: Gold
Project Phases: Exploration / Studies / Construction Execution

Client Overview

Hochschild Mining PLC is a leading underground precious metals producer specializing in high‑grade silver and gold, with over 50 years of operational experience across the Americas. In October 2021, Hochschild acquired a 60% undivided interest in the historic Snip Mine, becoming the project operator. The mine, previously on care and maintenance, required a revised mine plan informed by new resource drilling, including twinning existing holes and metallurgical test areas.

Client Needs

Hochschild Mining required experienced support to restart operations at a legacy underground mine site in a remote region of British Columbia. Key challenges included:

• Developing a revised mine plan and ensuring alignment with updated resource data.
• Managing site logistics, contractor selection, and vendor coordination under challenging conditions.
• Implementing robust health, safety, and environmental (HSE) programs to meet British Columbia M‑240 permit requirements.
• Upgrading communications and site infrastructure to support safe and efficient restart activities.
• Establishing protocols for COVID‑19 screening and personnel management to maintain continuity of operations.

TMG’s Contributions

• Construction Oversight: Managed site‑wide construction activities, including earned value verification, RFI management, and compliance with Standard Operating Procedures for goods receipt and site service coordination.
• Contract and Procurement Management: Reviewed and standardized existing contracts, created new contract templates, and assisted in selecting First Nations‑affiliated vendors and consultants to align with project and community goals.
• Logistics Planning: Coordinated transportation and infrastructure logistics, including marshaling equipment from multiple locations to support restart activities.
• Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) Programs: Developed comprehensive management plans, Standard Operating Procedures, reporting templates, and an emergency response plan. Ensured availability of ambulance and helicopter support for non‑rotation days.
• Communications Infrastructure: Implemented new handheld radio systems and installed two antennas to enable reliable on‑ and off‑site communications, including emergency response connectivity.
• COVID‑19 Protocol Development: Designed and implemented active screening processes and quarantine procedures for both on‑site and off‑site personnel, ensuring operational continuity during pandemic restrictions.

Results

TMG’s support enabled Hochschild Mining to achieve significant progress in restarting the Snip Mine:

• Expanded Resource Exploration: Completion of a second drilling campaign following the maiden resource announcement in 2020, supporting updated mine planning.
• Operational Readiness: Restart activities commenced on schedule, despite environmental and logistical challenges, with support from TMG’s planning and communication infrastructure upgrades.
• Safety and Compliance: HSE program development ensured adherence to M‑240 permit conditions and strengthened overall site safety protocols.
• Cost Savings: Achieved $369,256 in under‑run on TMG services while completing full scope of work.

The Snip Mine Restart demonstrates the impact of disciplined project management and safety oversight in reviving legacy mining assets. TMG’s expertise in logistics, health and safety, and execution planning enabled Hochschild Mining to advance the project toward production while maintaining compliance, efficiency, and stakeholder confidence.