Introduction
Catch fences are installed as a measure to contain falling rock. The location and height of fence will be largely dependent on the topography of the face and space constraints at the foot of the slope. The fence's energy absorption capacity will depend on the mass of falling rock, its likely trajectory and required confidence levels.
Catch fences may be designed to act either statically or dynamically. They usually comprise a combination of high strength netting and wire ropes, supported by either rigid or hinged posts with heights typically in the range 2m to 5m.
CAN's Capabilities
CAN uses computer modelling to assess both the rock fall trajectory and energy absorption requirements for catch fences at all locations within a site.
We construct both static and dynamic catch fences, often positioned in high or inaccessible locations to capture falling rock before it gathers momentum or is projected into free space. Such work sites are ideally suited to our long reach plant, used in conjunction with rope access and high level rigging. Fences installed include a wide variety of bespoke designs, together with off-the-shelf systems.
Permanent fences have often been located within marine influences, requiring higher levels of protective finish and corrosion resistant metals.
CAN also installs a number of different temporary catch fence systems to enable work to be carried out on cliffs above public access areas or infrastructure.