The safety of its complex is a constant preoccupation for Grande Dixence S.A. This is why there are 400 measurement points distributed across the whole water conveyance network and permanently linked to the water management centre at Sion.

A closely-monitored dam

The Grande Dixence dam and the adjacent rock are continuously monitored for movements and changes. Safety inspectors regularly visit the 32 kilometres of tunnels and shafts inside the dam wall. They examine the faces of the dam and also the edges so that any changes are rapidly detected.

A triangulation network with concrete pillars has been established on the dam and in the surrounding area. This makes it possible to take a complete set of geodesic measurements of the site at regular intervals, and to identify any abnormal movements.

These inspections are supplemented by 16 measuring devices which transmit information in real time and automatically record any variations. All measurements which are important to the monitoring of the dam wall are transmitted continuously to the operations centre at Sion.