Hydroelectric Dam and Powerhouse Safety Inspection Checklist
This checklist supports Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) dam safety program requirements under 18 CFR Part 12, USACE dam safety guidelines, and OSHA electrical and general industry safety standards for hydroelectric powerhouse operations. Designed for dam safety engineers and powerhouse supervisors.
- Industry: Utilities / Hydroelectric Power
- Frequency: Daily / Weekly
- Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
- Role: Dam Safety Engineer / Powerhouse Supervisor
- Total Items: 24
- Compliance: FERC 18 CFR Part 12 Safety of Water Power Projects and Project Works, USACE Engineering Manual EM 1110-2-3600 Management of Water Control Systems, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 Electrical Power Generation, ANSI/IEEE C2 National Electrical Safety Code
Dam Structure Inspection
Physical inspection of dam embankment and spillway.
- No unusual seepage or boils on downstream embankment face or toe?
- No significant new cracks on concrete dam face or spillway?
- No unusual settlement or displacement of dam crest?
- Spillway gates operational and clear of debris?
- Piezometers and monitoring instruments functional and readings within normal range?
Powerhouse Equipment
Generating unit and powerhouse equipment condition.
- All generating units operating within normal parameters (temperature, vibration)?
- Governor and turbine bearing oil levels within normal range?
- Cooling water system for generators operational?
- Power transformer oil level and temperature normal?
Electrical Systems
High voltage electrical safety in powerhouse.
- Switchyard access restricted to qualified electrical workers?
- Arc flash hazard labels current on all electrical equipment?
- Equipment grounding system intact?
- Emergency shutdown system tested monthly - last test current?
Emergency Action Plan Readiness
EAP and flood warning system readiness.
- Emergency Action Plan current and posted in control room?
- Emergency notification phone numbers current and tested?
- Warning siren system functional and tested?
- Upstream river gauge and weather forecast checked?
Safety Equipment
Safety equipment in powerhouse and on dam crest.
- Life rings with throw lines at tailrace and reservoir edges?
- First aid kit and AED in powerhouse?
- Confined space entry procedures in place for tunnels and conduits?
- Anomalies or safety observations
FERC Recordkeeping
Regulatory recordkeeping compliance.
- Daily operations log completed?
- Monitoring instrument readings recorded?
- Maintenance activities logged and available for FERC review?
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Why Use This Hydroelectric Dam and Powerhouse Safety Inspection Checklist?
This hydroelectric dam and powerhouse safety inspection checklist helps utilities / hydroelectric power teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for dam safety engineer / powerhouse supervisor professionals, this checklist covers 24 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: daily / weekly.
Ensures compliance with FERC 18 CFR Part 12 Safety of Water Power Projects and Project Works, USACE Engineering Manual EM 1110-2-3600 Management of Water Control Systems, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 Electrical Power Generation, ANSI/IEEE C2 National Electrical Safety Code. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hydroelectric Dam and Powerhouse Safety Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 24 inspection items across 6 sections: Dam Structure Inspection, Powerhouse Equipment, Electrical Systems, Emergency Action Plan Readiness, Safety Equipment, FERC Recordkeeping. It is designed for utilities / hydroelectric power operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed daily / weekly. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
Who should use this Hydroelectric Dam and Powerhouse Safety Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Dam Safety Engineer / Powerhouse Supervisor professionals in the utilities / hydroelectric power 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.