Baird has extensive experience in the evaluation of scour potential, and the design of scour protection, for bridges, riverine and coastal structures. This includes the application of a wide range of tools and techniques to investigate the complex hydrodynamic processes associated with the interaction of waves and currents with structures, including:

• analytical approaches;
• empirical methodologies;
• numerical models;
• physical models.

Baird has been involved in scour assessments for a full range of foundation materials, including sands and gravels, clay, silt, tills and weak, fractured bedrock. These assessments have included a wide range of structures, including bridge piers and abutments, breakwaters, shoreline protection (revetments and marine pipelines.

Scour protection designs have been developed using quarried rock tremie concrete. Alternatives such as gabion mattresses, articulated concrete block mattresses and grout-filled bags have also been considered for some projects.

The design of scour protection is supported by Baird's extensive knowledge and experience in the planning, design, construction and monitoring of riverine and coastal structures. This experience allows Baird to efficiently undertake scour investigations and develop appropriate recommendations that balance project cost and risk.