Instrumentation and Failure Modes – What Do You Really Need To Monitor?

The primary objective of an effective instrumentation program is to successfully detect developing conditions that could lead to adverse performance of a dam. These conditions, if left undetected, could culminate in a dam safety incident or failure. This paper presents typical potential failure modes for an embankment dam and the corresponding instrumentation that could be considered for effective monitoring. Pros and cons with regard to how likely the information provided by these instruments would assist in the detection of a developing PFM will be explored. Prudent visual monitoring, a key component to any dam safety program, is also discussed, but is not the focus of this paper. This paper presents the perspective and guidance of regulatory agencies, engineers, and owners regarding an appropriate level of monitoring and the justifications for added or abandoned instrumentation. Specifically, perspectives on good practice and minimum prudent monitoring measures, determining appropriate instrumentation thresholds, and data review practices are presented.