construction and refurbishment of earthen irrigation channel banks

13/08/02 19:20When considering exposure, factors such as the proximity to schools and housingshould be taken into consideration.Channel safety measures can be grouped into two categories:- those which limit or deter people and animals from entering a channel- those which are escape devices in the event a person or animal enters a channel12.22.2 Reducing risks to peopleWater has a peculiar fascination, especially to children, and drowning can be atragic consequence.All open channels, regardless of size, depth, flow or type of construction are ahazard to people, particularly children, and safety measures need to be taken tominimise the associated risks. Selection of the most appropriate measure isdependent on the degree of risk.Public safety education programs, warning signs and protective fencing are safetymeasures, which limit or deter people from entering a channel.Protective fencing is probably the most common and effective safety measure,particularly to deter the access of small children. It may vary from a simple 1.2metre high rural stock fence, through to a 2.4 metre high chain wire security fence.Escape ladders, suspended cables, float lines and siphon guards are devices, whichaid people to escape from a channel.Photos\Design\siphonguard.jpgPhoto 12-3Manguard on entrance to siphonFencing, regardless of height, will not be an effective barrier to older youth andadults determined to gain access.It is not known how many people take notice of warning signs. Warning signs arethought to do little to prevent someone from entering an area and becoming apotential drowning victim. However, suitably worded signs located at appropriateplaces accessible to the general public, can at least alert some of the public to thedangers that exist, and make them more careful or cautious in their behaviour.One of the most effective means of protecting the public from the hazards ofirrigation channels is the education of people to realise that hazards do exist.12.22.3 Reducing risks to animalsChannels with earthen banks generally do not present a high risk to domestic andnative animals because they can usually escape from them unassisted.Wherever channels present a risk to animals they should be fenced, and in mostcases conventional stock fencing 1.2 metre high is effective.Construction and Refurbishment of Earthen Channel Banks August 2002 - Edition 1.0 12-60