Rockfalls

At the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF we research rockfalls so that risks can be assessed and damage prevented.

In a mountainous country like Switzerland, rockfalls are a common occurrence. As they can lead to fatal accidents and damage roads and buildings, we are looking at ways to protect the public against rockfalls, e.g. through the use of protective fences, rockfall galleries or dams, and protection forests. To this end, we send rocks hurtling down from great heights – either as part of field studies, in the laboratory or simulated in a computer model.

More information at the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF.