Why must water and silt retaining dams be regularly inspected?

Regular inspection of water and silt retaining dams is crucial primarily to prevent hazards to surface operations. Over time, various factors such as weathering, erosion, structural deterioration, or even seepage can compromise a dam's integrity. If these hazards are not identified and addressed in a timely manner, they can lead to dam failures, resulting in catastrophic events like flooding or sediment release that can endanger personnel, equipment, and operations downstream.

Furthermore, maintaining the structural integrity of these dams ensures that they continue to serve their primary function of managing water flow and sediment accumulation effectively. This underscores the importance of proactive management in preventing incidents that could have serious impacts on surface operations and safety. Regular inspections provide an opportunity to assess the condition of the dam, implement necessary repairs, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards designed to protect people and property.