The „ONR 24810: Technical Rockfall Protection – Terms, Impacts, Design and Structural Development, Monitoring, and Maintenance“ provides a comprehensive technical guideline for planning and dimensioning of technical rockfall protection measures in Austria. This standard encompasses all steps in mitigation planning, from site assessment and impact analysis to construction and maintenance. For rockfall protection fences, detailed sections cover for structural verification, anchor design, non-standard impacts, construction guidelines and service life considerations.
With the planned transition of ONR 24810 into an OENORM, it is crucial to evaluate its applicability in practice. An OENORM is a fully developed standard that can be legally binding, while an ONR is not legally binding unless explicitly referred to in contracts, laws, or regulations. OENORMS are designed to align with European (EN) or international (ISO) standards where possible.
This contribution focuses on different aspects such as on comparing 2D and 3D rockfall models used in dimensioning safety measures under the ONR 24810 framework. By analysing their respective strengths, limitations, and suitability for different terrain conditions, we aim to provide insights into their practical implementation. Key aspects include the definition of design blocks, jump height differences, model accuracy, and the implications for designing effective protection systems in different countries. These findings will inform the ongoing development of ONR 24810 into a more robust OENORM standard, ensuring it remains a practical and reliable guideline for rockfall protection.
Hormes, A., Garcia, B., Noel, F., Hübl, J., Melzner, S. (2025): ONR24810- Insights into practical implementation, EGU 2025. https://www.geochange-consulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Hormes_etal_2025_EGU2025.pdf