SMALL DAMS PETITS BARRAGES

Realistically however, in many response situations, as concluded by Cox/2007 based on
practical experience, an engineer or inspector will not have quick access to these files. And in
some cases, even when the files are available not all critical information may be included.
It is very important to arrive on site with the right equipment, as pointed out by Cox/2007 [7]. It
should not be expected that the first engineer or inspector on site will come equipped to repair
problems, but the following is a list of equipment which might prove useful when responding a
top dam safety emergency, and then need to be prepared previously:
Filed book and pencils
Clip board
Digital camera (extra batteries)
Cell phone (with important number of batteries);
Measuring tape
Flashlight (extra batteries)
Rain gear and umbrella
Calculator
Laptop (with wireless internet connection)
Stake or ruler for staff gauge
GPS Unit
Tracer dye.
Since the collection of such equipment takes time, it is generally a good idea to preassemble a
“ready bag” or plastic tube with all necessary equipment so that it is ready to be loaded into a
vehicle on short notice.
Personal safety gear such as high-visibility clothing, flotation devices and hard hats should be
available.
8.8 EMERGENCY EXERCISING AND UPDATING
Emergency incidents at dams and dam failures are not common events. Training exercises are
necessary to maintain operation readiness, timeliness and responsiveness. This may
accomplished through development and conduct of an emergency exercise program. It is
recommended that detailed guidelines on developing and implementing Emergency Action Plan
will be used in these situations.
Warning and evacuation plans should be considered “living” documents, as pointed out by the
Bureau of Reclamation [1]. This means that:
1. They will never be completed;
2. They should be reviewed not less than each five years for small dams;
3. Review should include participation of personnel of the dam operating organization, and
local authorities when possible;
4. All updates should be made promptly.
Changes that may frequently require revision and update of emergency action plans include
changes in personnel of involved organizations and changes in communications systems. As a
minimum, review of office telephone numbers and appropriate personnel included in notification
flowcharts should be conducted.
During the review of warning and evacuating plan, a comprehensive evaluation of the adequacy
of the plan should be made as well.
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