Some developments in rock slope hazard assessments for road and rail

摘要

The paper considers developments in the systematic appraisal through to the ongoing manage-ment of rock slopes affecting significant infrastructure. The Rock Hazard Index (RHI) system was originallydeveloped for rapid appraisal of rock slopes affecting Scottish Roads. It has been developed further in connec-tion with slopes appraisal under the Quarry Regulations and for rock slopes affecting rail, other infrastructureand property. A notable feature is the differences in targets/receptors and the owners' perceptions of these. It isparticularly important to engage with the various interested parties in this. This has led to development of the STAR (Stability Appraisal and Risk) system, following a source –pathway –receptor approach analogous to approaches used for contaminated land. This considerably assists communicationand risk management planning, for instance distinguishing slopes with high hazard but for very little receptors atrisk from those that may have low hazard but major receptors at risk. Remedial measures can be systematicallystudied in the light of this. Options can be readily assessed and costed ranging from improving the source (e.g.scaling, bolting), breaking the pathway, e.g. rock trap, catch fences, vegetation barrier, through to modifying thereceptors (e.g. controlling development).