Mitigating Rockfall Risk Above a Critical Hydro Facility
A permanent rockfall mitigation system protects high-voltage transmission lines.
Overview
When several rockfall incidents endangered powerhouse assets at a hydro facility, a geohazard mitigation solution was required to ensure the site’s return to safe, uninterrupted operations.
Key Considerations:
- 60° slopes.
- Work site was located directly above the facility powerhouse close to high-voltage transmission lines.
- Highly incompetent, poor-quality rock.
Scope
GRW was contacted after unpredictable rock quality caused frequent rockfall incidents at a hydro facility in northern Canada, threatening facility equipment. After a thorough assessment and check scaling, GRW installed Geobrugg rockfall debris mesh as a permanent solution.
Method
Due to the close proximity of high-voltage transmission lines, no helicopter or crane could assist in the installation. As a result, advanced rope access rigging techniques were implemented to transport equipment up the slope and erect a temporary rockfall barrier. Once materials were in place and the worksite was cleared for construction, GRW drilled and installed the permanent Geobrugg rockfall debris mesh.
Results
Two years later, the system remains functional. GRW has continued to partner with the client, providing ongoing slope monitoring and planning future rockfall mitigation installations.
Ready to
Work With Us?
When your project is high elevation, high risk, or both, you want the most experienced team on the job. Our seasoned technicians are ready to take on the most complex geohazard projects to keep your site and community safe.
