Production operations are the steps that contribute directly to mineral extraction. These include those operations in the "production cycle."

Auxiliary operations those that support the production cycle.

Both production production and auxiliary operations are essential to operating a mine that is profitable, safe, and environmentally well-managed.

An example of production operations are the steps used to produce minerals from the deposit. These include drilling, blasting, loading and processing. An example of the auxiliary operations include operations that make the production operations safe and possible. These include ground control, power supply, drainage, ventilation, lighting and communications.