At Access Limited, we understand the importance of keeping slopes and structures safe from the unpredictable and dangerous effects of rockfall. Our innovative solutions, including rockfall control, containment, scaling, and barriers, provide reliable and effective protection for your project. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we utilize the latest technologies, such as mesh and draped mesh systems, as well as attenuators, to ensure long-term stability and safety. Contact us today to learn more about our rockfall mitigation services and how we can help protect your project.
The natural phenomenon of rockfall can cause extensive damage to property and infrastructure if left unaddressed. It becomes imperative to implement innovative solutions that can effectively manage and mitigate the risk of rockfall. From mesh systems to scaling and draped mesh solutions, various techniques are available to tailor the mitigation approach to the specific site and slope conditions.
The protection of slopes and structures is paramount, especially when situated in high-risk zones prone to rockfall. Rockfall can cause extensive damage to life and property, and therefore, implementing effective rockfall measures is necessary. Not only does this protect the infrastructure, but it also ensures that the natural balance of the environment is maintained. Additionally, rockfall mitigation solutions provide peace of mind for those living or working in the area, knowing that they are well-protected against any potential hazards.
Rockfall mitigation systems are designed to protect slopes and structures from the impact of falling rocks and boulders. These systems include rockfall barriers, attenuators, scaling, and mesh systems.
Rockfall barriers are typically made of steel cables and posts and are designed to intercept and contain falling rocks. Attenuators, on the other hand, are designed to absorb the impact of falling rocks by using materials such as foam or steel plates. Rockfall scaling involves the removal of loose rocks and boulders from slopes to decrease the likelihood of rockfall. Draped mesh systems, also known as rockfall netting, are used to contain falling rocks by using a flexible mesh that is draped over the slope.
Before implementing any rockfall mitigation measures, it is important to conduct a thorough slope analysis and assessment. This involves identifying potential rockfall hazards and evaluating the slope’s stability, geological features, and environmental conditions. Based on the analysis, appropriate mitigation measures can be selected and designed to ensure their effectiveness. The slope analysis and assessment process often involves using specialized equipment such as ground penetrating radar, laser scanning, and drone mapping to gather data and create detailed 3D models of the slope. This data can be used to accurately identify potential rockfall hazards and design customized solutions that are tailored to the site’s specific conditions. By conducting a slope analysis and assessment, Access Limited can help ensure that the selected measures are effective and long-lasting. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the risk of rockfall hazards and provide peace of mind for those in the area.
The methods used in slope analysis and assessment vary depending on the site’s specific conditions. Some common methods include visual inspections, geological mapping, and geotechnical testing. In addition, specialized equipment such as total stations, inclinometers, and seismographs may be used to gather data about the slope’s stability and movement.
New technologies such as drone mapping, LiDAR, and photogrammetry have also revolutionized slope analysis and assessment, allowing for faster data collection and more accurate 3D models. This data can be used to identify potential hazards, such as unstable rock formations or areas prone to erosion, and design customized solutions that are tailored to the site’s specific needs.
During slope analysis and assessment, several factors are considered to identify potential rockfall hazards and design effective mitigation solutions. These factors include the slope’s geological and topographical features, weather conditions, vegetation cover, and human activities in the area.
The geological features of the slope, such as rock type, structure, and weathering, can affect its stability and the likelihood of rockfall. Topographical factors such as slope angle and shape also play a role in determining the risk of rockfall.
Weather conditions such as rainfall, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles can cause erosion and weaken the slope’s stability. Vegetation cover can help stabilize the slope, but certain species can also contribute to rockfall hazards.
Two commonly used rockfall mitigation techniques are draped mesh and scaling. Draped mesh involves installing a flexible mesh netting over the exposed rock face to prevent loose rocks from falling. The mesh is anchored to the slope using steel cables or rock bolts, and it is designed to conform to the slope’s contours. Draped mesh can be used in conjunction with other mitigation measures, such as rockfall barriers or attenuators, to provide additional protection.
Scaling, on the other hand, involves removing loose or unstable rock from the slope using specialized equipment such as airbags, drills, or hydraulic hammers. This technique can be used to stabilize the slope and prevent further rockfall hazards. Scaling is often used in combination with other mitigation measures to ensure the slope’s long-term stability.
Rockfall barriers and attenuators can also be used to protect structures and infrastructure from rockfall hazards. These systems are designed to absorb the impact of falling rocks and debris, dissipating their energy and minimizing damage. Rockfall barriers are typically made of steel cables or chain-link mesh and are anchored to the slope using reinforced concrete or steel posts. Attenuators are softer barriers made of materials such as foam or rubber and are designed to deform upon impact, absorbing the energy of falling rocks.
Each mitigation technique has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the selection of the most appropriate technique depends on the site-specific conditions and hazards.
Draped mesh is a cost-effective solution that can be installed quickly and easily. It also allows for natural vegetation growth and can blend in with the surrounding environment. However, it may not be suitable for steep slopes or areas with large boulders, and it requires regular maintenance to ensure its effectiveness.
Scaling is a more labor-intensive technique that can be used to remove large or unstable rocks from the slope. It is effective in improving the slope’s stability and reducing the risk of rockfall. However, it can be costly and time-consuming, especially for large-scale projects, and it may not be feasible for steep or inaccessible areas.
Rockfall barriers and attenuators are effective in protecting structures and infrastructure from rockfall hazards. They can be designed to withstand high-velocity impacts and can be tailored to the specific site conditions. However, they can be expensive to install and may require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure their effectiveness.
A rockfall attenuator is a type of rockfall barrier that is designed to deform upon impact, absorbing the energy of falling rocks and debris. Attenuators are effective in minimizing damage to structures and infrastructure caused by rockfall hazards.
Rockfall attenuators work by converting the kinetic energy of falling rocks into strain energy, which is then absorbed by the attenuator material. This reduces the force and velocity of the rocks, minimizing damage to the protected area.
Attenuators can be designed in various shapes and sizes, depending on the specific site conditions and hazards. They are typically installed in areas where traditional rockfall barriers may not be feasible or effective, such as steep and inaccessible slopes.
Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of rockfall attenuators. Any damaged or worn-out parts must be replaced promptly to ensure the continued protection of structures and infrastructure.
Rockfall attenuators are designed to absorb the kinetic energy of falling rocks and debris, converting it into strain energy. They are typically made of soft materials, such as foam or rubber, that can deform upon impact. When a rock or debris hits the attenuator, the energy of the impact is absorbed by the material, reducing the force and velocity of the falling rocks.
Attenuators are typically installed in areas where traditional rockfall barriers may not be feasible or effective, such as steep and inaccessible slopes. They can be designed in various shapes and sizes, depending on the specific site conditions and hazards.
If you are interested in a no-obligation site visit to determine if our services fit your geohazard mitigation needs, call us at 855.905.2460 or fill out our contact form.
