Hydroelectric Dam and Penstock Safety Inspection Checklist
This checklist supports hydroelectric dam safety inspections per FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) Part 12 dam safety program requirements, USACE dam safety guidelines, and OSHA 29 CFR 1910 general industry standards. Designed for dam safety engineers and FERC licensed dam inspectors.
- Industry: Hydroelectric Power / Water Infrastructure
- Frequency: Weekly (operational) / Annual formal safety inspection
- Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
- Role: Dam Safety Engineer / FERC Licensee Inspector
- Total Items: 22
- Compliance: FERC Part 12 Dam Safety Program (18 CFR Part 12), USACE EM 1110-2-1156 Safety of Dams - Policy and Procedures, ASCE/EWRI 45 Dam Safety Guidelines, OSHA 29 CFR 1910 General Industry (for powerhouse operations)
Dam Embankment / Structure Inspection
Physical condition of dam structure and embankment.
- No new or unusual seepage on downstream face or abutments?
- No unusual settlement or cracking on dam crest or slope?
- No significant erosion on upstream or downstream slope?
- Upstream slope riprap intact with no voids or slope failures?
- No trees or woody vegetation on dam embankment (root penetration hazard)?
Spillway and Gates
Spillway operational readiness.
- Spillway free of debris and obstructions?
- Spillway gate operation tested - gates open and close per design?
- Gate seals and trash racks in acceptable condition?
- Plunge pool/stilling basin - no excessive scour threatening structure?
Instrumentation and Monitoring
Dam monitoring instrumentation operability.
- Piezometers and settlement monuments reading and recorded?
- Seismic monitoring instruments operational?
- Reservoir level gauge accurate and calibrated?
Powerhouse Operations and Safety
Powerhouse electrical and mechanical safety.
- Turbine and generator units operating within normal parameters?
- All electrical clearances and LOTO procedures followed during maintenance?
- Confined space entry procedures followed for penstock or intake inspections?
Emergency Action Plan (EAP)
EAP currency and communication readiness.
- Emergency Action Plan current and updated per FERC requirements?
- EAP distributed to all applicable local emergency management agencies?
- Emergency warning system (sirens, notifications) tested within required interval?
- Observations or anomalies requiring follow-up
Security and Access
Dam security compliance per DHS recommendations.
- Security fencing intact with no breaches?
- All access gates locked when not in use?
- Security cameras operational (if installed)?
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Why Use This Hydroelectric Dam and Penstock Safety Inspection Checklist?
This hydroelectric dam and penstock safety inspection checklist helps hydroelectric power / water infrastructure teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for dam safety engineer / ferc licensee inspector professionals, this checklist covers 22 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: weekly (operational) / annual formal safety inspection.
Ensures compliance with FERC Part 12 Dam Safety Program (18 CFR Part 12), USACE EM 1110-2-1156 Safety of Dams - Policy and Procedures, ASCE/EWRI 45 Dam Safety Guidelines, OSHA 29 CFR 1910 General Industry (for powerhouse operations). Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hydroelectric Dam and Penstock Safety Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 22 inspection items across 6 sections: Dam Embankment / Structure Inspection, Spillway and Gates, Instrumentation and Monitoring, Powerhouse Operations and Safety, Emergency Action Plan (EAP), Security and Access. It is designed for hydroelectric power / water infrastructure operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed weekly (operational) / annual formal safety inspection. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
Who should use this Hydroelectric Dam and Penstock Safety Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Dam Safety Engineer / FERC Licensee Inspector professionals in the hydroelectric power / water infrastructure 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.