MAR/General/TBT-MAR-009

Scour Protection and Rock Armour

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Scour Protection and Rock Armour

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-MAR-009  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Scour protection prevents water erosion around structures such as bridges, piers, and sea defences.
  • Rock armour consists of large, heavy stones placed to absorb wave energy and resist water flow.
  • Individual armour stones can weigh several tonnes and require crane or excavator placement.
  • Work often takes place near open water, on tidal foreshores, or from floating plant.
  • Tidal windows dictate when work can safely proceed — planning around tides is essential.
  • Geotextile membranes are typically laid beneath rock armour to prevent soil migration.
  • Lifting and placing heavy stones creates crushing and trapping hazards for operatives.
  • Access to foreshore and riverbed locations is often difficult and may require temporary platforms.
  • Environmental permits are usually required for works affecting river beds and coastal areas.
  • Marine mammal and bird nesting restrictions may apply during certain seasons.

Why?

Drowning riskWorking near or in flowing or tidal water presents a constant drowning hazard that must be managed.
Crushing injuriesRock armour stones weighing several tonnes can cause fatal crushing injuries if they shift during placement.
Environmental protectionWorks in watercourses and coastal zones are strictly regulated to prevent ecological damage.
Do Don't
  • Plan all work around tidal windows and weather conditions
  • Wear a personal flotation device when working near open water
  • Use a detailed lift plan for placing rock armour with cranes or excavators
  • Maintain exclusion zones around the placement area during lifting operations
  • Brief all operatives on tidal times, escape routes, and rescue procedures
  • Inspect geotextile and formation before placing armour stone layers
  • Ensure rescue equipment including throw lines and lifebuoys are available
  • Check environmental permits and seasonal restrictions before commencing work
  • Use a banksman to guide the machine operator during stone placement
  • Record placement patterns and armour stone grades as required by the designer
  • DON'T work on the foreshore without checking the tidal schedule first
  • DON'T stand under or near suspended rock armour stones during lifting
  • DON'T approach placed stones until the excavator or crane has fully released them
  • DON'T enter water or tidal areas without wearing a personal flotation device
  • DON'T ignore rising water levels — evacuate to higher ground immediately
  • DON'T damage or displace geotextile membranes during armour placement
  • DON'T operate plant on unstable foreshore ground without ground assessment
  • DON'T disturb protected marine habitats without environmental clearance
  • DON'T work alone at tidal or riverside locations at any time
  • DON'T allow plant to operate below the safe tide level for that machine

See also: Tidal Working Procedures | Marine Works Safety Awareness
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