Rockfall Bolting & Netting

Rock bolting and rockfall netting systems work together to protect the surrounding environment

What is Rockfall Bolting and Rockfall Netting?

Rockfall containment can be supported by bolting and netting to protect the surrounding environment.

Rockfall netting systems are generally categorised as active or passive, depending on how they interact with the rock face and control instability.

Passive netting systems are typically anchored at the crest and toe of the slope using rock bolts or dowels. These systems allow loose material to detach and fall behind the mesh, where it is retained and collected at the base for periodic removal.

Active mesh systems comprise high‑tensile steel mesh that is tensioned directly against the rock face, restraining surface material and preventing detachment. While these systems are more complex and generally more costly to install, they offer significant advantages in terms of controlling small‑scale instability, reducing ongoing maintenance, and limiting debris accumulation.

A wide range of mesh systems is available, with differing strength characteristics, deformation behaviour, and corrosion protection levels.

These considerations are particularly important in restricted environments, such as adjacent to roads, railways, buildings, or pedestrian routes, where controlled deformation and minimal encroachment are essential.

How are they installed?

Rockfall netting systems are often supplemented with additional stabilisation measures, including:

Targeted rock bolts, dowels, or anchors installed to restrain individual blocks
Steel wire rope straps used to secure larger or discrete features
Sprayed concrete or masonry dentition, where additional localised support or protection is required

At CAN Geotechnical, we install a wide range of bolt and anchoring systems using a variety of access and plant solutions, including:

Excavator rigs
Telehandlers
Lightweight, suspended A‑frame drilling rigs for difficult‑to‑access locations

Rock bolts typically consist of threaded steel tendons, fixed using cementitious or resin grout and fitted with headplates bearing against the rock surface. Where visual impact is a concern, exposed plates and steelwork can be finished or painted to blend with the surrounding rock face.