Rockfall barriers absorb energy by deforming; after an impact the line may still look intact while its capacity has dropped. A component-by-component checklist for acceptance inspection, periodic inspection and post-event repair.
Why inspect
While a flexible rockfall barrier stops a block, the braking elements open, the support ropes stretch and the net deforms. This shows that the system worked as designed; it does not mean it will meet the next block with the same capacity. The class in the specification (MEL/SEL under EAD 340059) applies to the system in new condition; a used braking element or a full net does not carry that class.
Installation errors are the second reason: a missing or loose rope clip, a clip fitted the wrong way round, a nut not torqued, a plate not seated on the anchor head. None of these can be seen from a distance; at acceptance they are checked item by item.
Component checklist
| Component | Checked | Measured |
|---|---|---|
| Anchors and base plates | Seating of the plate on the ground, mortar, cracks, scour | Pull-out test where the specification requires it; nut torque |
| Posts | Inclination, base hinge, impact marks, buckling | Vertical and horizontal deviation |
| Support and retaining ropes | Number and orientation of clips, rope end length, crushing, broken wires | Clip torque; sag |
| Braking elements | Signs of opening, ring deformation | Elongation, against the manufacturer's limit |
| Net and secondary mesh | Tears, opened rings, missing connectors, accumulated material | Residual height |
| Coating | White rust, red rust, mechanical scratches | Affected area; corrosivity category note |
| Surroundings | Erosion, vegetation, drainage, new source area | Photographic comparison |
| Tag plate | In place, legible, QR code works | — |
When
- Acceptance inspection at the end of installation; the result is entered on the line's barrier tag as "installation".
- Periodic inspection at the interval on the tag (default 12 months); more often in active source areas.
- Event inspection after an impact, flood, earthquake or sensor notification.
For service levels, inspection method and reporting, see the inspection, maintenance and service life page. We also work on other manufacturers' systems; spare parts are matched to the manufacturer.
For a quotation, use the contact page; sharing the location and length of the line and any project documents is enough.
