This course introduces the basic guidelines of dam inspection according to FEMA. It is estimated that there are about 75,000 dams in the US, many of which are reaching the end of their expected useful lives. With the inventory of aging dams, maintenance and inspection become more critical. At the same time, the useful life of many new dams may be extended by regular maintenance of deficiencies discovered during routine inspections.

The content of this course is a workbook titled “Inspection of Embankment Dams” published by FEMA and a video intended to supplement the workbook. Engineers, dam owners, dam safety officials, and maintenance contractors will gain an understanding from this course of the areas to be inspected on an embankment dam according to FEMA-recommended practices. Additionally, this course could be useful as a guide for training in embankment dam inspection.

If you are new to dam safety inspection, the material presented in this course will provide important background information. The discussion of the inspection process is designed to provide the inspector with guidance for conducting a comprehensive inspection of a dam embankment. If you have experience with embankment dams, this course will provide a brief refresher on key terminology used in FEMA embankment dam inspection. Since terminology can differ from agency to agency, you may find it helpful to review this section to become familiar with how terms will be used in this module.

Topics:

• Basic principles of inspecting embankment dams
• Describe the different characteristics and types of embankment dams
• List principal features of an embankment dam, and describe the functions of each
• Describe the procedures for inspecting the upstream/downstream slope of embankment dams
• Describe the procedures for inspecting the crest/abutments of embankment dams
• Describe the procedures for inspecting the downstream toe of embankment dams
• Describe the procedures for inspecting the seepage collection drains of embankment dams
• Identify and explain the characteristics and potential consequences of seepage, cracking, instability, sinkholes, depressions, and inadequate maintenance
• Explain what actions should be taken to protect the dam embankment

Intended Audience:This course is intended for Geotechnical, Civil, Environmental, Water Resources, and other engineers whose job description requires a comprehensive knowledge of earthen dam inspections.

Publication Source:US FEMA Training Aids for Dam Safety (TADS)