Basic Knowledge of Water Barriers

Learning targets

Providing safety from floods is crucial for Dutch society. As a technical employee responsible for management and maintenance, you want to acquire basic knowledge about water barriers. What do you need to know?

By enrolling in the Basic Knowledge of Water Barriers course, you will gain insights into a wide range of topics related to water barriers. You’ll learn about both the technical and policy aspects of managing these critical infrastructures, as well as the tools used in day-to-day practice. Additionally, you’ll explore recent developments in water safety, such as the Delta Programme from the Dutch government and the Flood Protection Programme led by the water authorities and Rijkswaterstaat.

After completing this course, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to responsibly manage and maintain water barriers.

The following topics will be covered: 

• primary and regional water barriers
• technical aspects of design and construction
• legislation, policy, studies, and developments
• management and maintenance
• safety aspects (standards, safety assessments, emergencies)
• protective coverings
• structures, non-water retaining objects, and multifunctionality

Upon completion of this course, you will have the following knowledge and skills:

• understanding water barriers
• recognizing failure mechanisms
• proper management and maintenance practices
• this training will enable you to contribute effectively to the safety and sustainability of water management systems.

Program

Day 1: Water Barriers Topics:

• introduction to water barriers
• flood safety
• introduction to technology
• design and stability

Day 2: Primary Water Barriers

• tools for management and maintenance
• management approaches
• practical aspects of management and maintenance
• primary water barriers, the coast
• excursion to the coast

Day 3: Framework for Management and Maintenance

• legislation and policy
• preparation and execution of dike improvement
• procurement of works, services, and supplies

Day 4: Regional Water Barriers

• regional water barriers
• strengthening regional dikes
• excursion on dike improvement

Day 5: Structures and Non-Water Retaining Objects (morning)

• types of structures
• design of structures
• non-water retaining objects

Day 6: Dike Coverings (morning)

• types of coverings
• design of a covering
• stone revetments

Day 7: Final Presentations (afternoon)

On the final day, participants will present their end presentations.

Your Contribution

At World Water Academy, the focus is on both knowledge and practical experience. Therefore, each participant is encouraged to bring their own work experience into the course. What challenges are you facing, and what experiences can you share to help others learn from them?

Target group

The Basic Knowledge of Water Barriers course is designed for technical staff involved in the management and maintenance of water barriers who want to acquire comprehensive knowledge on the subject. If you are new to this sector, this course will provide you with an excellent foundation in water barriers.

Learning Together

Our group-based learning approach fosters an enthusiastic environment where you can engage in meaningful discussions about the course content and your work situation.

Entry Level

The course is designed for individuals with an MBO or HBO background. If you don’t fully meet this requirement, the course coordinator will contact you after registration to discuss what is necessary to successfully complete the program.