Hydropower Dam Safety Inspection Checklist
This hydropower dam safety inspection checklist ensures compliance with FERC Part 12 dam safety regulations, USACE Engineering Manual EM 1110-2-1402 dam safety program, ASDSO (Association of State Dam Safety Officials) guidelines, and state dam safety inspection requirements. Designed for dam safety engineers and facility inspectors to conduct periodic safety inspections of hydropower dam structures including embankment, concrete, spillways, and instrumentation.
- Industry: Renewable Energy
- Frequency: Monthly
- Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
- Role: Dam Safety Engineer / Facility Inspector
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: FERC Part 12 Dam Safety Regulations, USACE Engineering Manual EM 1110-2-1402, ASDSO Dam Safety Guidelines, State Dam Safety Program Inspection Requirements, FEMA Federal Guidelines for Dam Safety
Embankment/Dam Structure
Dam body structural inspection.
- Dam crest free of cracking, settlement, or deformation?
- Upstream slope free of erosion, slides, or distress?
- Downstream slope free of seepage, boils, or erosion?
- Concrete elements free of significant cracking or spalling?
- Dam Face/Crest Photo
Seepage and Piezometric Monitoring
Foundation and embankment seepage monitoring.
- Seepage measurement weirs read and logged?
- Seepage quantity stable or decreasing (not increasing)?
- Piezometer readings within expected range?
- Toe drains and relief wells flowing clearly (not cloudy)?
- Settlement monitoring points read and within limits?
Spillway and Energy Dissipators
Spillway structural and operational readiness.
- Spillway approach and crest clear of debris?
- Spillway gates functional and operational per testing?
- Spillway chute free of significant cracking or spalling?
- Stilling basin/plunge pool free of excessive scour?
- Emergency spillway unobstructed and functional?
Instrumentation and Monitoring Systems
Dam safety monitoring equipment check.
- All automated monitoring instruments transmitting data?
- Real-time monitoring system (RTMS) active?
- Reservoir staff gauge readable and calibrated?
- Strong motion/seismic monitoring active?
- Emergency communication and warning system tested?
Access and Housekeeping
Site access, vegetation, and maintenance.
- Access roads to spillway, outlet, and monitoring points passable?
- Embankment free of woody vegetation (root damage)?
- No evidence of burrowing animal activity on embankment?
- Dam access restricted and security measures in place?
- Site Conditions Photo
Inspection Report
Findings documentation and regulatory reporting.
- All deficiencies documented with priority rating?
- Emergency Action Plan (EAP) reviewed and current?
- FERC periodic inspection requirements being met?
- State dam safety program notification completed?
- Inspection Report Notes
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Why Use This Hydropower Dam Safety Inspection Checklist?
This hydropower dam safety inspection checklist helps renewable energy teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for dam safety engineer / facility inspector professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.
Ensures compliance with FERC Part 12 Dam Safety Regulations, USACE Engineering Manual EM 1110-2-1402, ASDSO Dam Safety Guidelines, State Dam Safety Program Inspection Requirements, FEMA Federal Guidelines for Dam Safety. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hydropower Dam Safety Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Embankment/Dam Structure, Seepage and Piezometric Monitoring, Spillway and Energy Dissipators, Instrumentation and Monitoring Systems, Access and Housekeeping, Inspection Report. It is designed for renewable energy operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 2-4 hours.
Who should use this Hydropower Dam Safety Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Dam Safety Engineer / Facility Inspector professionals in the renewable energy industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.