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Published on 11 Sep ‘24
How to Select the Right Silt Curtain: A Critical Decision for Your Project
How to select the right silt curtain

To select the right silt curtain before project commencement is the most critical step in ensuring both environmental compliance and project success. Many view the use of silt curtains as a “necessary evil”, often imposed on them late in the project mobilization stage. However, treating this decision as a box-ticking exercise to meet consultant or client requirements can lead to significant challenges down the line.

THE RISKS OF POOR SILT CURTAIN SELECTION

Opting for the wrong silt curtain – especially if the choice is driven purely by price – can have serious consequences. While you might save on initial costs, improper selection can lead to failures that are far more expensive in the long run.

Incorrectly chosen or improperly installed silt curtains can fail under environmental stress, resulting in costly project delays and potential shutdowns. The downtime that comes with addressing these failures can quickly add up when you consider the cost of idle machinery, manpower and lost productivity. Beyond the financial implications, there are environmental and reputational risks, particularly when sediment or pollutants are allowed to spread unchecked.

Failure mode: Incorrectly specified curtain model

One significant failure mode is using an incorrectly specified silt curtain model. This can lead to rips or tears in the skirt, especially during installation or relocation, as these are the times when the highest forces are placed on the curtain.

To minimize damage, all silt curtains should be furled before relocating to reduce strain. Additionally, if a curtain is newly installed, it might be under-capacity for the environmental conditions it faces, leading to potential failure. Ensuring that the curtain is properly specified for the site’s conditions is crucial to avoiding these issues.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR SELECTING THE RIGHT SILT CURTAIN

To make an informed decision, consider the following key factors at the start of your project:

Environmental conditions: Assess the site’s specific conditions, such as currents, wave action and water depth. These factors will dictate the model of silt curtain required.

Installation and deployment: Where will the silt curtain be assembled and deployed? Is there enough space and access to ensure proper deployment?

Onsite equipment availability: Do you have the necessary equipment onsite for installation and anchor handling? This includes boats, cranes, divers that might be needed for proper deployment and securing of the silt curtain.

Relocation needs: Does the silt curtain need to be moved during the project? If so, ensure you have the resources and a plan in place to handle any relocations.

Maintenance and monitoring: Do you have the capability to monitor the silt curtain regularly and address any potential failures? Routine checks are crucial to ensure the curtain remains effective throughout the project’s duration.

Consequences of failure: Consider the potential impact of a failure: project delays, environmental damage and possible fines. What is the real cost of downtime and remediation?

Project budget: While cost is always a factor, it’s essential to balance price with performance. A slightly higher initial investment in the right silt curtain can prevent costly setbacks later.

DOWNLOAD THE COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve created a guide that covers everything you need to know about selecting the right silt curtain model and anchoring system. Ensure your project is set up for success from the start!

Access the guide HERE.

It is worth noting that unfortunately not all silt curtains are created equal. When comparing suppliers, please review technical specifications and ensure you are comparing like-for-like. If you wish to receive further information, feel free to reach out to us.

📷 Top photo: Ecobarrier Silt Curtains ESC-300-3 in action on a megaproject in the Red Sea, KSA.

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