Article: PWD: Learning to detect slope failures can save lives

Monday July 20, 2009

By ZANI SALLEH

KUALA LUMPUR: The Public Works Department (PWD) has embarked on a campaign to educate housebuyers and people living near hillslopes to detect landslides and monitor slopes for possible earth movement.

Its slope engineering department consultant Erika Motoyama said slope safety awareness would enable people to identify warning signs prior to a disaster.

The campaign, entitled "Safe Slopes Save Lives", includes an exhibition featuring graphics and posters on preventive measures for landslides.

"The exhibition showcases monitoring and understanding the six signs of slope failure, how to maintain slopes and report signs of serious failure to the relevant authorities," she said.

Motoyama said the country has a high concentration of hills and slopes that are susceptible to landslides, especially during heavy rain.

"Over the years, there has been an increase in the number of housing projects at foothills and at areas where hills have been cleared," she said, adding that it was vital for people to recognise and detect landslides early to prevent loss of lives and property.

Motoyama identified 11 signs of slope failure and impending landslide, including bulging ground and water at the base of slopes or retaining wall; water breaking through the ground surface in a new location near a slope; fences, retaining walls, utility poles or trees tilting or moving; cracks appearing on the slope, ground and in the foundation of structures; and water pipes breaking.

Others signs are jammed doors or windows; widening cracks on streets or driveways; land movement; and stairs pulling away from the building.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 20 July 2009