Design Mistakes Causing Subsurface Disaster
Subsurface disaster can occur individually or in clusters as events and disasters, both through natural events and by significant design mistakes, which can have tremendous and far reaching impacts on people, environment and infrastructure. This can be seen in sinkholes, dams bursting and collapsing, underground explosions, landslides and flooding, or contaminated and polluted ground water, resources and environments.
In many cases, subsurface disaster is caused by inaccurate or inadequate design that fails to address all of the potential threats or hazards, or falls short in providing the best solution to them. A thorough evaluation of potential risks, failure modes and potential solutions should be done right from the onset, and with the right tool an appropriate risk mitigation strategy should then be implemented.
Design mistakes are mostly attributed to incorrect or inadequate assessments of existing ground conditions, and can include soil conditions and other environmental factors that can impact the design, such as geology and groundwater levels. Insufficient analysis may lead to inadequate designs and at times can even lead to catastrophically dangerous outcomes, for example if the design fails to take into account the location of underground utilities or other structures, or fails to correctly identify the source of local environmental impacts.
There are a number of common design mistakes that can lead to subsurface disaster, such as failing to account for large land movements, or ignoring public perceptions or impacts. Landfill design should always factor in the possibility of subsurface landslides and should be seismically resilient, while consideration must be given to the potential pollutants that may be affecting the local environment. Likewise, the design of dams should take into account potential erosion, changes in local river beds, and seismic activity.
In some cases, poor design decisions, such as inadequate safety mechanisms, can also lead to disaster. Poor design decisions such as insufficient drainage, inadequate ventilation, improper fire protection measures and inadequate security systems can all lead to explosions or other incidents. Subsurface disasters can also be caused by inadequate maintenance, corrosion, abuse of material or chemical spills.
One of the most pressing design mistakes is the failure to assess existing conditions and anticipate future changes. Good design should take into account the changing climate, shifting groundwater levels and changing soil conditions. If these elements are not taken into consideration, the result can be significant subsurface disaster. Taking all potential hazards into consideration, and making sure the right safety and control mechanisms are in place, is crucial to avoid the potential of disaster.
Design mistakes are often preventable, and can easily be avoided by implementing the right tools and taking appropriate precautions. Subsurface disasters can be costly and devastating, and addressing design errors from the onset should be a top priority for all stakeholders. Adequate assessments should be made of existing conditions, and the most appropriate tool for analysis should always be used. It is essential to bear in mind the potential for business interruption and environmental damage, as well as being aware of the legal and financial implications for those affected by subsurface disaster.
