Risk Evaluation and Mitigation for Mechanically-Stabilized Earth (MSE) Walls—Perspectives from an EPC/EPCM Contractor

Major engineering, procurement and construction/construction management (EPC/EPCM) projects often include large-scale MSE walls. These walls are used in mining and power projects (around crushers), infrastructure projects (roadway embankments), etc., and are required to meet strict performance specifications. Wall malfunction/failure can significantly impact the project. Thus, design and construction of such MSE walls require close coordination between the EPC/EPCM contractor and the MSE subcontractor/contractor to ensure successful outcomes. An extensive literature search conducted to identify and review case histories dealing with MSE wall malfunctions and/or failures is presented. An anonymous MSE wall survey was prepared and sent to MSE wall specialty subcontractors/contractors and other geoprofessionals. They were asked to share their knowledge and experience with the design, construction, and performance monitoring of MSE walls. The survey consisted of questions and requests for feedback describing the work process employed for the design and construction of MSE walls as well as positive and negative experiences. A summary description of the survey along with a summary of the evaluation of the survey responses is included here. The survey responses provided unique, unpublished information and also served to complement the literature search. Results of the literature search were combined with the survey responses to identify opportunities for best practices and lessons learned.