“The contractor's dedication to safety has set a benchmark for industry standards.”
Geovert’s six-year project to protect one of America's most iconic pieces of infrastructure has concluded with exceptional recognition from the US Bureau of Reclamation (USBR). Our comprehensive mitigation of the USBR’s rockfall risk at the Hoover Dam has received outstanding client feedback, highlighting an exemplary safety performance throughout the project duration.
Project Scope and Significance
The Hoover Dam, constructed between 1931 and 1936, stands not only as a testament to American engineering excellence but to a nations resilience and a symbol that turned the economic course of the US. Drawing over one million visitors annually, this concrete arch-gravity dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River continues to be a crucial piece of infrastructure at the Nevada-Arizona border. Its original construction was a massive undertaking, involving thousands of workers. It is known as the birthplace of industrial rope access in the US with some of the first-ever rope access high rock scalers.
Outstanding Safety Performance
The Bureau's review highlighted an exceptional commitment to safety throughout the project. "The rockfall mitigation contractor's performance in the area of Safety has been rated as 'Exceptional.' Over the course of six years working on this contract with the government, the contractor has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to safety, which is clearly their number one priority" stated the US Bureau of Reclamation in their review.
As the Bureau notes, "Their proactive approach included regular safety training, thorough risk assessments, and the utilisation of advanced safety equipment, all of which contributed to maintaining an exceptionally safe work environment. Their exemplary safety record not only safeguarded the well-being of all personnel but also resulted in uninterrupted project progress and avoided costly delays associated with accidents.”
Our performance has set a new standard in the industry, as acknowledged by our client: “The contractor's dedication to safety has set a benchmark for industry standards and has provided the Government with the confidence that the project is being managed with the highest regard for human life and safety."
Complex Operational Requirements
Physical works, which commenced in early 2019, presented unique challenges requiring careful planning and execution. Night operations were implemented for rock scaling and rock bolting to avoid disruption to the dam's daily operations and high traffic from tourist activities. The comprehensive scope encompassed geotechnical inspections, rockfall mesh drapes, active slope stabilization with dimensioned mesh, rockfall and debris protection barriers, rock bolting, rock scaling, rope access, and drill & blast operations.
Special measures were taken to protect dam infrastructure, which included many historically significant elements linked to former US presidents,during construction activities, demonstrating the team's ability to work with respect and care whilst balancing safety and operational efficiency.
Historical Context and Impact
The project's significance is amplified by the USBR's status as America's largest water wholesaler, with a 120-year legacy encompassing over 600 dams and reservoirs across 17 western states. The Bureau's infrastructure network serves over 31 million people and supports irrigation for 60% of the nation's vegetable production, contributing $34.1 billion in economic output and supporting over 450,700 jobs.
The Hoover Dam remains one of the finest examples of American engineering and is featured on many lists of modern marvels. Geovert was selected from an extensive local and international panel by the Bureau of Reclamation. The Bureau’s sophisticated in depth evaluation criteria placed significant emphasis on Safety track record and Safe Operating Procedures for high risk work when determining value. It was on this basis that Geovert was chosen as their long-term partner of choice, with the mission of protecting both the asset and public from potential geohazards.
As we reflect on the past six years of exceptional work, we want to thank everyone who has contributed to this remarkable project. Your commitment to safety and excellence has helped maintain what is perhaps America's most iconic piece of infrastructure for now and in generations to come.
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