CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 General

Dam is one of the hydraulic structures constructed to serve particular functions. It is a

water control feature to impound water supply, to divert water from a water course, or to raise

the elevation for water body (Murphy, 1977). The water impound is for the purpose of supplying

the water for drinking and domestic uses, irrigation and industrial uses, generating hydroelectric

power, controlling flood, recreation and navigation (Lane, 2008). In supplying the water to the

consumers, a dam holds it from flowing into the pipe, tunnel and conduit. However, poor

management of dams can cause problems and disasters in terms of safety of dam and how it

affects the people and the environment. This study focuses how the operator of Semenyih Dam,

Konsortium ABASS Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS), conducts the operation and maintenance of Semenyih

Dam to ensure it is safe according to the criteria set by United States Army Corps of Engineers

(USACE) Manual (2000). ABASS ensures that the Factor of Safety (F.O.S.) of the downstream

slope is adequate and hence the slope remains stable against global a nd local features.

1.2 Background of Semenyih Dam

Semenyih Dam forms part of the S ungai Semenyih Water Supply Scheme in the state of

Selangor (ABASS, 2012). The raw water is transported through pipeline to Sungai Semenyih

Water Treatment Plant to be treated before the water can be supplied to the consumers.

Semenyih Dam located at Batu 30, Jalan Sungai Lalang, Semenyih in the state of Selangor while

Sungai Semenyih Treatment Plant located at Presint 19, Putrajaya. Figure 1.1 shows the layout

1
of Sungai Semenyih Water Supply Scheme while Figure 1.2 shows the schematic diagram of

Sungai Semenyih Water Supply Scheme.

Figure 1.1 Layout of Sungai Semenyih Water Supply Scheme

(Source : ABASS, 2012, Maklumat Berkenaan Empangan Semenyih)

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 Figure 1.2 Schematic Diagram of Sungai Semenyih Water Supply Scheme

(Source : ABASS, 2012, Maklumat Berkenaan Empangan Semenyih)

The Government of Selangor, as the owner of the Semenyih Dam has entrusted

Konsortium ABASS Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS) as the concessionaire for the operation, maintenance,

and surveillance of the dam. ABASS by its own initiative, has engaged an independent

engineering consultant to carry out dam safety inspections to ensure the Semenyih Dam meets

3
safety requirements and plays its role to augment raw water supply during prolong dried seasons

(ABASS, 2012).

Semenyih Dam is a semi- homogeneous embankment dam, constructed of decomposed

granite soils. The dam has a height of about 45.0 meter. The length of reservoir embankment is

about 830 meter. The dam spillway comprises a bell mouth (drop inlet) overflow spillway and a

6.2 meter diameter horseshoe section culvert tunnel. Draw-off tower is located at the CH165 of

the reservoir embankment and is linked with a concrete access bridge. Total height of draw-off

tower is about 54.60 meter. Projected height above embankment crest level is 7.30 meter

(ABASS, 2012).

1.3 Proble m State ment

There were a few cases related to natural disasters caused by dam failure worldwide. It

was due to several factors related to safety of the dam itself. Even though there was no any case

related to dam failure in Malaysia yet, safety factor is still the most crucial aspect considered in

dam management. The risks related to safety of dam are the factors the influence the physical

changes of the dam itself. The factors are the life span, stability, materials and capacity of dam.

This study focuses on the factors related to safety on Semenyih Dam and how the

management conduct the inspection, monitoring and maintenance and emergency action plan to

ensure that Semenyih Dam is always safe for local residents and also for Malaysians.

4
1.4 Objectives of Study

The objectives of this study are :

i. To investigate the management of Semenyih Dam in terms of inspection,

monitoring and maintenance.

ii. To investigate the safety of Semenyih Dam in terms of slope stability.

iii. To determine the emergency action plan in case of dam failure.

1.5 Scope of Work

The first objective which is the study on inspection, monitoring and maintenance of

Semenyih Dam has been conducted through a few visits to Semenyih Dam in Hulu Langat

District, Selangor and Sungai Semenyih Water Treatment Plant at Presint 19, Putrajaya. The

visits have been carried out to conduct interviews and to observe the actual situation of the

inspection, monitoring and maintenance of Semenyih Dam. Related pictures also have been

captured during the site visits.

For the second and third objective, the studies have been conducted through da ta

collection from Konsortium ABASS Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS) with assistance of its officers. To

acquire the data, a few briefing have been conducted by ABASS officers to give explanations

and lectures about the slope stability and emergency action plan.

5
1.6 Significance of Study

This study is relevant for the purpose of finding the problems that occur in a dam

management and safety. Besides that, the data collected also assist the investigation of

challenges and problems faced in maintenance and conservatio n process of dam and its

environment. Hence, improvement and upgrade of management and safety system of a dam in

general and Semenyih Dam in particular can be conducted.

6
 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Definition of Dam

According to Cambridge Advance Learner’s Dictionary, Third Edition, 2008, dam is

defined as “a wall built across a river to stop the flow and collect the water, especially to make a

reservoir (an artificial lake) that provides water for an area or can be used to make electricity”.

In the other hand, dam is defined as “a barrier that is built across a river in order to stop

the water from flowing, used especially to make a reservoir (a lake for storing water) or to

produce electricity” according to Oxford Advance Learner’s Dictionary, Eighth Edition, 2010.

Therefore, in term of engineering, dam can be defined as “a man- made structure which is

built across a river as reservoir to stop the water flow and collect the water, used to provide water

supply, as flood control and to generate electricity”.

2.2 Brief History of Dam

Earliest builders of dam might be inspired by beavers, the furry animals belonging to the

rodents family that build astonishing water impounding structures across streams and rivulets

using tree branches, chopped wood, twigs and earth. Beavers are also known for building canals,

and their unique homes called lodges. Historical evidence of dam building traced to periods as

early as 5000 B.C. (wishtrain.com, 2009).

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 The oldest known man- made dam built with some real skill was a masonry and earthen

embankment found at Jawa in the Black Desert of modern Jordan, built between 3000 and 4000

BC on a small stream to facilitate local irrigation. The first man- made dams with some

engineering expertise were of Masonry or Concrete Gravity type (wishtrain.com, 2009).

Around 2950 B.C. to 2750 B.C, the ancient Egyptians built the first known dam to exist.

It is called as the Sadd el-Kafara which in Arabic means "Dam of the Pagans”. The 37- feet tall

dam was 348-feet wide at bottom and 265- feet wide at top, given a limestone surface layer and

some 100,000 tons of gravel and stone was used. It could have stored water to the extent of 460

acre-ft. Once the dam was failed by overflowing and erosion, Egyptians appear to have never

attempted again to build another dam till the Old Aswan Dam was built on River Nile in 1902

(wishtrain.com, 2009).

The second type of dam known to have been built was an earth dam called Nimrod's Dam

in Mesopotamia around 2000 BC. Earth dams are massive dams similar to gravity dams except

they are made of soil. The dam is made watertight, with a core wall and filled with an

impervious center usually made of clays. Nimrod's dam was built north of Baghdad across the

Tigris and was used to prevent erosion and reduce the threat of flooding. The intention was to

divert the flow in the river and help irrigate the crops. The dam was built of earth and wood, so it

is difficult to be certain of the exact characteristics of the dam (Yang, 1999).

Around 100 A.D., the Romans were the first civilization to use concrete and mortar in

their gravity dams. The dam at Ponte di San Mauro has a great block of concrete among its

remains. The evidence indicates that a large slab of concrete was used as the core and the outer

layer finished with masonry (Yang, 1999).

8
 The oldest dam in world to be operational still today is a 20 feet high rock- fill type dam

built in around 1300 B.C. on River Orontes in Syria. It was used for irrigation (wishtrain.com,

2009).

2.3 Types of Dam

The selection of the best type of dam should be thoroughly considered based on a few

factors. They are economy, safety and other pertinent limitations. Usually, the greatest single

factor determining the final type of dam will be the cost of construction (Amstrong, 1977).

Generally, dams are classified into two major categories based on the type of the

materials used in the construction. The categories are embankment dams and concrete dams. The

materials for embankment dams are natural materials whether rock or soil through materials

filling process, thus the embankment dams are classified into earthfill dams and rockfill dams.

While the materials for concrete dams are concrete and this type of dam are classified into

concrete arch dams, concrete gravity dams and concrete buttress dams. Figure 2.1 shows the

types and classifications of dams.

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 Types of Dam

Embankment Dams Concrete Dams

Earthfill Dams Rockfill Dams Concrete Arch Concrete Buttress

Dams Dams

Concrete Gravity
Dams

Figure 2.1 Types and classifications of Dams

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2.3.1 Embankment Dams

Embankment dams are the most commonly built dam. This civil structure relies on their

self-weight to resist significant pressure from the water storage. Embankment dams are those

constructed of the natural materials of the earth; namely soil and rock in their many and varied

forms (Amstrong, 1977). There are two types of embankment dams as follows:

i. Earthfill Dams

ii. Rockfill Dams

These main types of dams are subdivided further into a few specific types. With proper

design, the major influencing factor is that of cost to meet all conditions of the design

(Amstrong, 1977). The types of earthfill dams are as follows:

i. Homogeneous dams

ii. Modified dams

iii. Zoned dams

iv. Hydraulic dams

While the types of rockfill dams are as follows:

i. Central core dams

ii. Sloping/inclined core dams

iii. Diaphragm dams

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The specific types of embankment dams are shown in Figure 2.2.

Figure 2.2 Specific Types of Embankment Dams

(Source : http://theconstructor.org/water-resources/earthfill-dams-its-classification/2273/)

2.3.1.1 Earthfill Dams

An earthfill dam is composed of suitable soils obtained through excavation from other

area and then spread and compacted in layers by mechanical process.

Earthfill dams may be constructed as homogeneous, modified, zoned and hydraulic dams.

Zoned dams are generally preferred since zoning permits the use of several different material

12
types in the embankment that may be available from borrow areas or required excavations

(United State Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 1991). Zoned type dams also have an

impervious core zone surrounded by a relatively pervious zone. Homogeneous type dams are

constructed with a single type of soil throughout the cross-section (wishtrain.com, 2009).

Homogeneous embankments are usually not considered except when free-draining materials are

not readily available (United State Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 1991).

Some older dams have been placed by hydraulic means. These hydraulic fill dams

frequently contain large masses of loose to very loose soils in them because of the dumping and

sluicing of the soils during construction (United State Federal Energy Regulatory Commission,

1991). Figure 2.3 shows a general view of an earthfill dam.

Figure 2.3 General View of Earthfill Dam

(Source : http://theconstructor.org/water-resources/earthfill-dams-its-classification/2273/)

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2.3.1.2 Rockfill Dams

Rockfill dams are constructed with loose rocks and boulders instead of soil

(wishtrain.com, 2009). The embankments are composed largely of fragmented rock with an

impervious earth core. The core is separated from the shells by a series of transition zones built

of properly graded materials. The impervious core may be central or inclined (United States

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 1991). Rockfill dams tend to use aggregate extracted

from nearby mining sites to make them impermeable (British Dam Society, 2012).

The other type of rockfill dams is diaphragm dams. Diaphragm dams are constructed

with pervious materials, with a thin impervious diaphragm in the central part to prevent seepage

of water. The thin impervious diaphragm may be made of impervious clayey soil, cement

concrete or masonry or any impervious material. The diaphragm can be constructed in the central

portion or on the upstream face of the dam. The main difference in zoned and diaphragm type of

dams depend on the thickness of the impervious core or diaphragm. The thickness of the

diaphragm is not more than 10 meters (The Constructor, 2012). Rockfill dams with inclined

impervious core and central core are shown in Figure 2.4.

Consisting of at least 50 percent rock, rockfill dams are economical and the rocks make

an effective barrier against the strong forces created by rivers. Unlike earth or concrete dams,

workers can work in wet weather conditions and still construct a strong and durable dam (British

Dam Society, 2012).

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 Figure 2.4 Rockfill Dams with Inclined Impervious Core and Central Core

(Source : http://theconstructor.org/water-resources/earthfill-dams-its-classification/2273/)

2.3.2 Concrete Dams

Concrete dams are made either from concrete or masonry. However, there are some

concrete dams that are made from both concrete and masonry (British Dam Society, 2012).

There are three types of embankment dams as follows :

i. Concrete Arch Dams

ii. Concrete Gravity Dams

iii. Concrete Buttress Dams.

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2.3.2.1 Concrete Arch Dams

Concrete arch dams are curved in the shape of an arch, with the top of the arch pointing

back into the water. An arch is a strong shape for resisting the pushing force of the water behind

the dam. Arch dams are usually constructed in narrow, steep sided valleys. They need good rock

for their foundations, and for the sides of the valleys, to resist the forces on the dam (British Dam

Society, 2012).

Figure 2.5 shows how the arch shape of a concrete arch dam resists the pushing force

from the water. Meanwhile, Figure 2.6 is the general view of a concrete arch dam.

Figure 2.5 Arch Shape of a Concrete Arch Dam

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 Figure 2.6 General View of a Concrete Arch Dam

(Source : http://ashleycarew.hubpages.com/hub/Dams-Flood-Control-Structures)

2.3.2.2 Concrete Gravity Dams

Concrete gravity dams are called with such name because gravity holds it down to the

ground stopping the water in the reservoir pushing it over (British Dam Society, 2012). The

dams are usually slightly curved in plan and rely on self weight to resist the hydrostatic forces

that act upon it (Carew, 2012). A cross-section (or slice) through a gravity dam will usually look

roughly triangular. Concrete gravity dams are suited to sites with either wide or narrow valleys

(British Dam Society, 2012). The dams must be built on a strong rock foundation when over 20

meters in height and are expensive as large amounts of concrete are used (Carew, 2012).

Figure 2.7 shows the cross section of a concrete gravity dam. Meanwhile, Figure 2.8 is

the general view of a concrete gravity dam.

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 Figure 2.7 Cross Section of a Concrete Gravity Dam

(Source : http://www.britishdams.org/about_dams/gravity.htm)

Figure 2.8 General View of Concrete Gravity Dam

(Source : http://ashleycarew.hubpages.com/hub/Dams-Flood-Control-Structures)

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2.3.2.3 Concrete Buttress Dams

Concrete buttress dams are a combination of arch and concrete gravity dams (Carew,

2012). The dams have a watertight upstream side supported by triangular shaped walls, called

buttresses. The buttresses are spaced at intervals on the downstream side. They resist the force of

the reservoir water trying to push the dam over.

Concrete buttress dams uses a lot less material due to the clear spaces between the

buttresses. The dams are suited to both narrow and wide valleys, and they must be constructed

on strong rock foundation (British Dam Society, 2012). Figure 2.9 shows the general view of a

concrete buttress dam.

Figure 2.9 General View of Concrete Buttress Dam

(Source : http://ashleycarew.hubpages.com/hub/Dams-Flood-Control-Structures)

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2.4 Dams in Malaysia

There are about 72 dams in Malaysia that were built for variety purposes. Even though

Malaysia had never experienced any tragedy of dam failure, safety factor is still being focused in

managing and operating a dam. The safety factors that should be considered in operating a dam

are age, height and capacity of the dam.

Dams in Malaysia are put under several management agencies. Some of the dams are put

under custody and supervision of federal agency under Kementerian Sumber Asli dan Alam

Sekitar (Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment). The agency is Jabatan Pengairan dan

Saliran (Department of Irrigation and Drainage or DID/JPS). At the same time, some of the dams

are put under custody and supervision of federal agencies under Kementerian Pertanian dan

Industri Asas Tani (Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry or MOA) such as Lembaga

Kemajuan Pertanian Muda (Muda Agricultural Development Authority or MADA) and Lembaga

Kemajuan Pertanian Kemubu (Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority or MADA).

Meanwhile several private companies/agencies are selected by every State Government

to operate and maintain the dams for water supply. It is according to Akta Suruhanjaya

Perkhidmatan Air Negara 2006 (National Water Services Commission Act 2006) which has

transfered matters related to water supplies and services from the State List to the Concurrent

List except for Sabah and Sarawak (National Water Services Commission, 2006). Concurrent

List means water supplies and services are under control of each State Government and Federal

Government under Kementerian Tenaga, Teknologi Hijau dan Air (Ministry of Energy, Green

Technology and Water or KeTTHA). However, the operators of the dams for water supply in

each state are not necessarily the water supply operator for the state. Table 2.1 the operator of

dam for water supply and also water supply distributor for every state in Malaysia.

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 Other agencies/companies that also operate dams in Malaysia are Tenaga Nasional

Berhad (TNB), Sabah Electricity Sdn. Bhd. (SESB) and Syarikat SESCO Berhad (previously

known as Sarawak Electricity Supply Corporation or SESCO). Table 2.2 shows the number of

dams in Malaysia grouped by its owner/operator, ages and height.

As Semenyih Dam was built for water supply purpose, Table 2.3 shows the list of dams

in Selangor that were built for water supply purpose.

21
 Table 2.1 Operator of Dam for Water Supply and Distributor of Water Supply for Every State in Malaysia

No. States Operators of Dam for Water Supply and Water Treatment Plant Distributor of Water Supply

1. Perlis No dam for water supply in Perlis Jabatan Bekalan Air (JBA) Perlis

2. Kedah Syarikat Air Darul Aman Sdn. Bhd. Syarikat Air Darul Aman Sdn. Bhd.

3. Pulau Pinang Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang Sdn. Bhd. (PBA) Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang Sdn. Bhd. (PBA)

4. Perak Syarikat Pengurusan Air Berhad (PAAB) Syarikat Pengurusan Air Berhad (PAAB)

5. Selangor, Kuala - Puncak Niaga (M) Sdn. Bhd. (PNSB) Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Sdn. Bhd. (SYABAS)

Lumpur and - Konsortium Abass Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS)

Putrajaya - Syarikat Pengeluar Air Selangor Sdn Bhd (SPLASH)

- Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID/JPS) - dwi-function

dam of Batu Dam (flood mitigation and water supply)

6. Negeri Sembilan Syarikat Air Negeri Sembilan Sdn. Bhd. (SAINS) Syarikat Air Negeri Sembilan Sdn. Bhd. (SAINS)

7. Malacca Syarikat Air Melaka Bhd. (SAMB) Syarikat Air Melaka Bhd. (SAMB)

8. Johor SAJ Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (previously known as Syarikat Air Johor SAJ Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (previously known as Syarikat Air

Sdn. Bhd. or SAJ) Johor Sdn. Bhd. or SAJ)

9. Pahang Pengurusan Air Pahang Berhad (PAIP) Pengurusan Air Pahang Berhad (PAIP)

10. Terengganu Syarikat Air Terengganu Sdn. Bhd. (SATU) Syarikat Air Terengganu Sdn. Bhd. (SATU)

11. Kelantan Syarikat Air Kelantan Sdn. Bhd. Syarikat Air Kelantan Sdn. Bhd.

22
12. Sabah Jabatan Air Negeri Sabah Jabatan Air Negeri Sabah

13. Sarawak Laku Management Sdn. Bhd. Laku Management Sdn. Bhd.

14. Labuan Jabatan Bekalan Air (JBA) Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan Jabatan Bekalan Air (JBA) Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan

Table 2.2 Number of Dams in Malaysia Grouped by Its Owner/Operator, Ages and Height

Age of Dam during 2012 (years) Height (m)

No. of
No. Dam Owner/Operator Not Not
dams <30 30-50 >50 <30 30-50 >50
available available
1. State Water Authorities/Companies 33 20 4 6 3 22 8 2 1
2. Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) 18 11 6 0 1 8 7 3 0
3. Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID/JPS) 15 7 4 3 1 15 0 0 0
4. Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry 4 0 2 0 2 0 1 1 2
Syarikat SESCO Berhad (previously known as Sarawak
5. 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0
Electricity Supply Corporation or SESCO)
6. Sabah Electricity Sdn. Bhd. (SESB) 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1
Total 72 38 16 9 9 45 16 7 4

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 Table 2.3 List of Dams in Selangor That Were Built for Water Supply Purpose

Year Height Water Capacity Water Treatment Plant

No. Dam Type Operator Area Served
built (m) (million litres) (WTP)
1. Tasik Subang Dam 1950 Earthfill 9.10 Not available North Hammock WTP PNSB Klang
2. Klang Gates Dam 1959 Concrete arch 36.89 25,104 Bukit Nanas WTP PNSB Kuala Lumpur
3. Sungai Langat Dam 1979 Earthfill 61.00 33,785 Sungai Langat WTP PNSB Hulu Langat, Cheras
4. Semenyih Dam 1985 Earthfill 49.00 61,653 Sungai Semenyih WTP, ABASS Klang Valley
Presint 19, Putrajaya
5. Batu Dam 1987 Earthfill 44.00 36,600 Sungai Batu WTP DID/JPS Gombak
6. Sungai Tinggi Dam 2002 Rock filled with 70.00 122,500 Rasa WTP and Bukit SPLASH Klang Valley, Kuala
clay core Badong WTP Selangor, Hulu Selangor.
7. Sungai Selangor Dam 2003 Rock filled with 70.00 235,000 Rasa WTP and Bukit SPLASH Klang Valley, Kuala
clay core Badong WTP Selangor, Hulu Selangor.

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2.5 Safety of Dams

All engineering structures need to be planned, constructed, and kept under proper

surveillance, maintained to keep them in safe serviceable condition. Failure of any type of

structure can result in loss of life besides property, but the loss in case of any structure other than

dams is limited to a localized area where as in case of dams (Department of Irrigation and

Drainage, 2009).

Dam safety has received considerable attention by dam owners as the result of significant

number of dam failure all over the world. Same with Konsortium ABASS Sd n. Bhd. (ABASS),

it has imposed a safety measure of maintaining the Semenyih Dam. It requires that they regularly

maintain in good repair and maintenance monitoring. The safety measures are structural safety,

safety monitoring and maintenance and emergency action plan.

i. Structural safety

- require appropriate design and construction, with all possible loading and operation

condition

ii. Safety monitoring and maintenance

- provided with guidelines, which require periodic or regular check and monitoring,

and the requirement to understand the uncertainty behaviour that may occur.

- checking and recording of the performance and behavioural trends of a dam and

appurtenant structures through visual observation and direct measurement

- rectify apparent deterioration in the condition of structures and installations to

ensure that they are kept in safe and functional conditions at all times.

25
 iii. Emergency Action Plan

- identify the threat to the dam and preparation to manage any situation of danger.

- taken to reduce the potential for property damage and loss of lives in an area

affected by a dam break

2.5.1 Structural Safety

The criteria set forth by United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Manual which

was provided in 1960 and revised in 2000 have been adopted by Department of Irrigation and

Drainage (DID/JPS) to provide a guideline of Minimum Factors of Safety for Earth and Rock

Fill Dams (Department of Irrigation and Drainage, 2009). Table 2.4 shows Minimum Factors of

Safety for Earth and Rock Fill Dams by USACE while Table 2.5 shows Minimum Factors of

Safety for Earth and Rock Fill Dams by JPS.

Table 2.4 Minimum Factors of Safety (F.O.S) for Earth and Rock Fill Dams by USACE (2000)

Minimum values of safety factors

Slope Condition
Static With earthquake
Upstream End of construction 1.4 1.0
Reservoir full 1.5 1.0
Reservoir drawdown 1.2 -
Downstream End of construction 1.4 1.0
Reservoir full 1.5 1.0

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 Table 2.5 Minimum Factors of Safety (F.O.S) for Earth and Rock Fill Dams by JPS (2009)

Case Design Condition Minimum Remarks

No. F.O.S.

I End of construction. 1.3 Upstream and downstream

slopes.

II Sudden drawdown from 1.0 Upstream slope only.

maximum pool. Use composite envelope.

III Sudden drawdown from spillway 1.2 Upstream slope only.

crest. Use composite envelope.

IV Partial pool with steady seepage. 1.5 Upstream slope only.

Use intermediate envelope.

V Steady seepage with maximum 1.5 Downstream slope only.

storage pool. Use intermediate envelope

VI Earthquake (Cases I, IV & V 1.0 Upstream and downstream

with seismic loading). slopes

ABASS may use either one of the guidelines for ensuring minimum Factors of Safety for

Semenyih Dam. Therefore, ABASS the downstream slope is safe and dam failure can be

avoided.

2.5.2 Safety Monitoring and Maintenance

Monitoring and inspection imply continued examination of the condition of a dam and its

appurtenant works (Department of Irrigation and Drainage, 2009). Monitoring is classified into

three types :

27
 • Instrumentation monitoring

• Control monitoring

• Exceptional monitoring

Maintenance is upkeep of the dam components so as to preserve them in a safe and

functional condition. It is a fundamental part of the whole dam safety process ( Department of

Irrigation and Drainage, 2009). Maintenance is classified into two types :

• Preventive Maintenance or Regular/Routine/Periodic Maintenance

• Extraordinary Maintenance or Unscheduled Maintenance

2.5.3 Emergency Action Plan

Emergency planning consist with strategy and preparation for incoming danger due dam

failure which included with determination of potentially submerged area in case of dam break,

the vital installation of alarming equipment and organisational measurements for ensuring the

measurement for ensuring the efficiency of evacuation of the downstream population.

ABASS has prepared for the possibilities of dam failure by developing an emergency

action plan, which provides a systematic means to :

 identify emergency condition threatening a dam

 provide immediate and effective response actions to prevent dam failure

 reduce loss of life and properties damage if dam failure occurs

28
 A good relationship between ABASS and Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) influences

the efficiency of flood warning and evacuation process. Nevertheless, ABASS has to make sure

that emergency action plan is done according to local dam safety legislation. Emer gency plans

will be more effective if vulnerability population take necessary action as results of warning

given. The process of preparing an emergency action plan should be done in numerous ways and

existing warning system should be updated from time to time.

A team or a list of person which have the responsibilities to notify the event of a potential

failure is the essential part of the emergency action plan. Possible inclusions for this list should

be obtained from and coordinated with local law enforcement agencies and local disaster

emergency services. They are key people or agencies who can activate public warning and

evacuation procedures or who might be able to assist the dam owner in delaying or preventing

failure. Certain key elements must be included in every notification plan. Information about

potential flooding areas and travel time for the flood wave is essential.

29
 CHAPTER 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

To ensure this study could be achieved smoothly and effectively, the proper planning to

get the accurate result is very significant while conducting the information collection process.

Therefore, this chapter discusses about the method of obtaining information required in order to

achieve the objectives of this study. Methodology should be done systematically in order to get

satisfying result in sufficient period of time. There are three main methods that are used in this

field of study. The methods are literature review, data collection and data analysis.

Literature review is a method to gather information about dams related to management

and safety. Previous study on management and safety of dams are analysed to compare the

objectives and results. Consequently, the difference and the mutual objectives are identified. The

results that have not been produced from previous study have been the main objectives of this

study. Literature review also includes literature study on definition of dams, brief history of dam,

types of dam, dams in Malaysia and safety of dam. The literature study has been done through

reading a lot of books, journals, magazines and several types of reading materials.

The objectives of this study are fulfilled through data collection during a few visits to

Semenyih Dam in Hulu Langat District, Selangor and Sungai Semenyih Water Treatment Plant

at Presint 19, Putrajaya. Interviews with Konsortium ABASS Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS), the operator

of Semenyih Dam, are conducted during the visits to acquire the data. Besides data collection,

related pictures also have been captured during the site visits. For addition, the data also are

30
collected from the manual that are provided by ABASS. The data will be are in a several tables

before being analysed in of next method which is data analysis.

Data that are gathered from data collection method are analysed through data analysis

method. This method needs comprehensive approach and focus. The data are understood first

before it is being analysed. The data that have been analysed are put into tables and figures.

Comparison between the data and objectives are also conducted to ensure that the data fulfils the

objectives and then the results are accurate.

All methodology can be summarised in a flow chart to make it more comprehensive.

Figure 3.1 shows the research flow chart.

31
 PROBLEM STATEMENT
A few cases related to dam failure worldwide due to several factors
related to safety of the dam.

OBJECTIVES
 To investigate the operation and maintenance of Semenyih Dam.
 To investigate the safety of Semenyih Dam in terms of stability and materials.
 To plan the safety measures and mitigation actions in case of dam failure.

LITERATURE REVIEW
Articles, past research journals, papers, books and magazines are
referred and reviewed.

INFORMATION AND DATA COLLECTION

Site visits and interviews are conducted.

DATA ANALYSIS
The information and data are analysed.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Conclusion is made and improvement actions are proposed.

Figure 3.1 Research Flow Chart

32
3.2 Design of Study

Study that are done is a case study of Semenyih Dam specifically to identify the

procedure and steps taken to ensure the safety of the dam in term of stability and materials.

Besides that, the apparatus, machineries and instruments for its operation are identified to

investigate whether the usages of those appliances are efficient in Semenyih Dam management.

The safety measures and mitigation action in case of dam failure also are identified, so that the

more appropriate measures and actions can be planned and proposed. The study will be

conducted through observation besides data collection through a visit to Semenyih Dam itself.

3.2.1 Preliminary Study

Preliminary study has been done to identify the problem statement, objectives, scope and

limitation of the study. This preliminary study is also for deciding the data and information that

should be gathered for the whole study. Decisions are made to ensure a predetermined set of

objectives will be fulfilled and the data and information gathered are relevant to the objectives.

The preliminary study also includes reading and observation.

3.2.2 Data Collection

Primary data is collected through a few visits to Semenyih Dam in Hulu Langat District,

Selangor and Sungai Semenyih Water Treatment Plant at Presint 19, Putrajaya. Interviews with

Konsortium ABASS Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS) officer are conducted during the visits. The primary

data in this study is categorized as qualitative data because it involves interview rather than

questionnaire which is categorized as quantitative data.

33
 Secondary data have been collected through reading of books, journals and magazines.

The data that have been gathered is the information and details about dams generally and

Semenyih Dam specifically. Secondary data are also gathered through profile and record from

ABASS.

3.2.3 Data Analysis

Data that is gathered from data collection method is analysed through data analysis

method. This method needs comprehensive approach and focus. The data should be understood

first before it is being analysed. The data that have been analysed are put into tables and figures.

3.2.4 Conclusion and Recomme ndation

After all the methodologies have been completed, the data are summarized. The summary

and conclusion of the study shows how the results and analysis fulfil the objectives. Then, the

recommendations are proposed to improve the weaknesses in management and safety of

Semenyih Dam.

34
 CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

4.1 Introduction

The results that have been obtained and the analysis of the study are discussed in this

chapter. The results are analysed based on the information and data that have been acquired from

Konsortium ABASS Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS).

First of all, the data of Semenyih Dam is summarised before further analysis can be

conducted. Then, slope stability of the dam is analysed. After the slope stability is analysed,

other aspects of inspection and maintenance for every structure or section of the dam are

analysed. The aspects include:

i. downstream slope inspection

ii. upstream slope inspection

iii. embankment crest inspection

iv. abutments inspection

v. installed instruments inspection

vi. seepage chamber inspection

vii. stilling basin inspection

viii. draw-off tower inspection

ix. service spillway inspection

x. access bridge inspection

35
 Finally, emergency action plan in case of dam failure are analysed. Therefore, the

improvement of mitigation actions may be proposed and recommended in the next chapter.

4.2 The Data of Semenyih Dam

i. Background

a. Name : Semenyih Dam

b. Location : Batu 30, Jalan Sungai Lalang,

Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan

c. Year Built : Construction began (21 December 1982)

Construction completed (30 November 1985)

d. Purpose : Impounded reservoir for water supply

e. Size classification : Large Dam (according to International Commision

on Large Dam or ICOLD)

f. Hazard classification : High (according to United States Army Corps of

Engineers or USACE)

ii. Main dam

a. Type : Earthfill embankment dam

b. Height : 49 meter

c. Length of crest : 800 meter

d. Width of crest : 9 meter

e. Elevation of crest : 115 meter

36
iii. Resevoir

Normal reservoir level : 110.0 meter

Surface area at normal level : 3.6km2

Maximum level of reservoir : 113.9 meter

Capacity at normal level : 61,400 ML (61.4 x 106 m3 )

iv. Outlet Structure

Quantity : 1

Purpose : For water discharge

Ground level : 70.1 meter L.S.D.

v. Spillway

Quantity : 1

Type : Bell mouth spillway

Crest level : 110.0 meter L.S.D.

Maximum spillway discharge : 20,000 m3 /s

vi. Catchment area

Area : 56.7km2 (56.7 x 106 m2 ) or 5670 hectares or 14,010.88 acres

37
4.3 Slope Stability Analysis

In this analysis, the performance of the reservoir embankment at the normal water storage

level (RL 111.00 meter) during its serviceability periods is evaluated. The stability of the

reservoir embankment subjected to maximum ground acceleration based on the recorded seismic

activities at the region will also be considered. As the original Dam and Reservoir Design

information are not available, the soil testing results during the construction of the reservoir

embankment are referred.

4.3.1 The Reservoir Embankment

Semenyih dam is a 45.0 meter (RL115.0 – RL70.0) high earth fill embankment dam. The

length of reservoir embankment is about 830 meter. Figure 4.1 shows the layout of Semenyih

Dam. It is classified as a major dam under the recognized international classifications. The dam

core and the reservoir embankment were constructed of decomposed granitic soils. According to

Soil Classification, the dam core consists of silty CLAY while the reservoir embankment

consists sandy clayey SILT.

The constructed side slope of the reservoir embankment at upstream is 1.0V:3.75H

whereas at the downstream embankment, the slope gradient is 1.0V:3.0H. At dam core, the slope

gradient is 4.0V:1.0H.

To address potential surface erosions within the service life of the reservoir, the upstream

slopes were protected by filter materials and stone riprap. 200 mm thick sand drains were

constructed within the upstream and downstream embankment filling layers to allow for the

dissipation of seepage flow.

38
 At the downstream of dam core, filter drain and the interconnected drainage mattress

were provided to channel the seepage flows and prevent migration of fine materials. The

foundation beneath the dam core was grouted by contact grouting and blanket grouting to seal

and closed the fissures identified in the decomposed rock.

At present, the reservoir had been in service for about 23 years. Despite of minor

embankment bulging in locality during the construction stage and observed localized damp

patches on the downstream slopes, there were no signs of instability noted so far.

Figure 4.1 Layout of Semenyih Dam

39
4.3.2 Stability of Reservoir Embankment

The permissible factor of safety for the stability analyses of Semenyih Dam must achieve

at least following minimum value of safety factors as recommended by United States Army

Corps of Engineers (USACE, 2000) and Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS, 2009).

Table 4.1 shows Minimum Factors of Safety (F.O.S) for Earth and Rock Fill Dams by USACE.

Table 4.1 Minimum Factors of Safety for Earth and Rock Fill Dams by USACE (2000)

Minimum values of safety factors

Slope Condition
Static With earthquake
Upstream End of construction 1.4 1.0
Reservoir full 1.5 1.0
Reservoir drawdown 1.2 -
Downstream End of construction 1.4 1.0
Reservoir full 1.5 1.0

Based on the slope stability analysis of Semenyih Dam, the F.O.S. of all of its cross-

sections are shown in Table 4.2. The results indicate that the F.O.S. for the downstream slope is

adequate and remain stable against global and local failures.

Table 4.2 The Factor of Safety (F.O.S.) of Semenyih Dam’s Cross Section

Chainage Types of slope and Seismic Required Actual Remarks

condition condition F.O.S. F.O.S.
Downstream with Static 1.5 1.936 OK
CH300
reservoir full Earthquake 1.2 1.755 OK
Downstream with Static 1.5 1.688 OK
CH450
reservoir full Earthquake 1.2 1.519 OK
Downstream with Static 1.5 1.564 OK
CH600
reservoir full Earthquake 1.2 1.410 OK

40
4.4 Safety Inspection and Monitoring of the Dam and Reservoir

The inspection of Sungai Semenyih Dam is usually separated into four groups. The first

group focuses on:

i. the downstream slope of the embankment

ii. installed instruments

iii. seepage chamber

iv. stilling basin.

The tasks of second group are to inspect:

i. the upstream slope of embankment,

ii. embankment crest

iii. draw-off tower

iv. service spillway

v. access bridge

The third group has to inspect on the reservoir slope along the catchment using the

speedboat while the fourth group focuses on mechanical and electrical and mechanical (M&E)

installations of the draw-off tower.

41
 4.4.1 Inspection of Dam Embankment

The inspection of dam embankment is divided into four (4) structures. Different

structures of dam embankment inspection are conducted because the different structures may

results into different outcomes and consequences. The structures are :

i. upstream slope

ii. embankment crest

iii. downstream slope

iv. abutments

4.4.1.1 Inspection of Upstream Slope

The riprap protection of the upstream slope is inspected and maintained periodically to

avoid the instability, displacement and beaching for the upstream slope and the riprap. Figure 4.2

shows the upstream slope and its riprap protection. Localised vegetation growth and debris was

also observed. If there are vegetation growth and rubbish in riprap stone, they must be cut and

cleaned.

Most of riprap stone beneath the water are exposed to the moss forming. Therefore, if

there is sign of existence of moss in the riprap stone beneath the water, they must be cleared and

removed. It is because the moss may cause hazard as when the rock when the rock is exposed

due to decrease in water level, it would be slippery to walk over the rock. However, the moss

does not affect the riprap strength.

42
 Figure 4.2 Upstream Slope and Its Riprap Protection

If there are exposures of upstream due to displaced and disintegrated riprap, the

exposures should be reinstated with a new riprap to protect the upstream slope from further

erosion and also avoiding the overgrowth vegetations. However, ABASS by time to time have

added the riprap to maintain the existing layer and also strengthen it to prevent erosion in the

future. Figure 4.3 shows the upstream exposure due to displaced and disintegrated riprap while

Figure 4.4 shows the reinstated riprap on the upstream.

43
Figure 4.3 Upstream Exposure Due to Displaced and Disintegrated Riprap

Figure 4.4 Reinstated Riprap on the Upstream.

44
4.4.1.2 Inspection of Embankme nt Crest

The embankment crest is about 9m wide. There is a 6 meter service road on the crest and

a wave wall of 1 meter height along the crest on the upstream side. A side drain is located

between the wave wall and the crest service road. The periodic inspection of embankment crest

is conducted to avoid depression, settlement and misalignment on the crest service road and

along the wave wall.

Besides that, the inspections have to ensure that there is no serious crack on the road

surface and the wave wall. It is no problem if there is a minor crack on the pavement because it

does not affect the safety of Semenyih Dam. However, it must be immediately sealed with

cement or grout. The road surface must also be cleaned and free from the rubbish and silt. Figure

4.5 shows the crest road and wave wall (white painted).

Figure 4.5 Crest Road and Wave Wall on the Embankment Crest
45
 The side drain is inspected to ensure that there are no minor vegetation and debris in the

side drain especially at the joint of the drain and at the drain holes of the crest wall. If there is

any vegetation or debris inside the drains, it should be cleared during the routine maintenance to

prevent any blockage of flow and to prevent the drains from silted. Figure 4.6 shows the side

drain between crest road and wave wall.

Figure 4.6 Side Drain between Crest Road and Wave Wall

Inspection at the rubber joint of the wave wall also is inspected periodically to avoid the

rubber joint from becoming deteriorated. If there is any deteriorated rubber joint, it should be

replaced with new rubber joint during. Figure 4.7 shows a deteriorated rubber joint of the wave

wall on the embankment crest.

46
 Figure 4.7 Deteriorated Rubber Joint of the Wave Wall at Chainage 540.

4.4.1.3 Inspection of Downstream Slope

Grass along every berm on the downstream slopes should be well maintained and

trimmed regularly to avoid the grass from being overgrowth. Besides that, the downstream slope

should be observed whether there is bulging and slumping. Minor bulging and slumping do not

affect the slope strength but it must be immediately repaired to avoid further deterioration of the

slope or structural failure. The downstream slope also should be free from litter and rubbish.

Figure 4.8 shows the downstream slope with the berms.

47
 Figure 4.8 Downstream Slope with the Berms

The cascade berm drains and the stone pitching between the berms are also periodically

inspected to detect any crack and depression. If there is any crack or depression, the cascade

drain and stone pitches should be reassembled with the entire cracks and joint filled-up with the

cement mortar or grout. The maintenance and repair or the crack and depression will restore the

gradient of the original berm drains design and allow free drainage. Therefore, it may avoid

ponding in the drains.

The cascade berm drains also should be ensured free from rubbish, vegetations and lichen

besides it should be cleared from turbidity. It is to prevent clog up of the drains. Any clogged

berm drain will impede free drainage and decrease the smooth flow of the water in the drain.

Figure 4.9 shows the cascade berm drain and the stone pitching.
48
 Figure 4.9 Cascade Berm Drain and the Stone P itching

Finally, the berms, cascade berm drains and the stone pitching should be free from

surface erosion, saturation and tension cracks to ensure the downstream slope is stable and in

good condition.

4.4.1.4 Inspection of Abutme nt

The left and right abutment in Semenyih Dam area are also periodically inspected to

ensure that there is no sign of any instability, slumping, depression or serious surface erosion.

Minor surface erosion that is considered safe and do not affect the stability can be ignored.

However, major and serious surface erosion, slumping and depression will affect the stability.

Therefore, immediate repair should be conducted when such defects occur. Figure 4.10 shows

minor surface erosion that does not affect the stability of the abutment.

49
 Figure 4.10 Minor Erosion that Does Not Affect the Abutment

4.4.2 Monitoring Instrumentation

Surface settlement markers, hydraulic piezometers, Casagrande type standpipes

piezometers and seepage measurement chamber have been adopted as part of the monitoring

scheme at Semenyih Dam since 1985. The purposes of these instruments are to monitor

movements/settlement, seepage and water level of the dam.

Dam movement is monitored periodically to get survey info of the markers and survey

stations are established by ABASS along the embankment crest. The monitoring system for the

hydraulic piezometer at the gauge house was upgraded and computerised by ABBAS in 2004 in

order to make the monitoring system becomes more efficient. Since then digitised data can be

acquired instantaneously. The monitoring records are also well documented by ABBAS.
50
Majority of the monitoring records for hydraulic piezometers and standpipes within 1987 to

September 2008 are available.

4.4.2.1 Surface Settlement Markers

Surface settlement markers have been established along the crest road, wave wall and

downstream slopes to monitor the dam movement. The monitoring of surface settlement markers

and deflection points were carried out in six months intervals. The function of surface settlement

markers is to capture any significant surface deflection and settlement that occur on the crest

road.

4.4.2.2 Hydraulic Piezometer

Piezometer cells are installed at both the upstream and downstream of reservoir

embankment as shown in Figure 4.11. At CH 365, the piezometers were installed at upstream of

reservoir embankment. Hydraulic piezometers monitoring was re-activated in early 2004 after

completion of gauge house upgrading works. Since then digitised monitoring data has acquired

from the computerised system.

Inspection of the hydraulic piezometer cells are conducted to check whether the

verticalities are in the right angle. Besides that, the inspections have to ensure the accuracy of the

reading and avoid damage. It is because piezometer cells have are exposed to such defects due to

temperature and humidity.

51
Figure 4.11 Piezometer Stations at Chainage 300 and Chainage 450

52
4.4.2.3 Casagrande Type Standpipe Piezometer

Casagrande type standpipe piezometers (SP2 to SP21) were installed at the downstream

side slopes while SP1 was installed at the upstream slope adjacent to left abutment. This type of

piezometer records at water levels at left abutment, right abutment and between both abutments.

4.4.2.4 Seepage Measurement Chambers

Seepage flows are measured continuously to determine whether the seepage flow rates

have increased until it may affect the safety and stability of the reservoir or not. If the flow rates

have increased until more than 110.0 meter level, immediate response and action should be taken

to warn the local authority, Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj).

The condition of seepage chamber is also observed during periodically inspection. It is to

ensure that the seepage chamber is in good condition and also to detect if there is any crack or

leak appears on the wall of the main seepage chamber. Figure 4.12 and Figure 4.13 show clear

seepage flow in the seepage chamber.

Figure 4.12 Clear Seepage Flow in the Seepage Chamber

53
 Figure 4.13 Clear Seepage Flow in the Seepage Chamber

4.4.3 Civil Structure Inspection

Main purpose of civil structure inspection is to detect any crack or concrete damage that

may affect the strength and instability of the structures themselves. There are three civil

structures periodically inspected. The structures are :

i. access bridge

ii. draw-off tower

iii. bell mouth spillway

Figure 4.14 shows the access bridge and draw-off tower and Figure 4.15 shows the bell mouth

spillway.

54
Figure 4.14 Access Bridge and Draw-off Tower

Figure 4.15 Bell Mouth Spillway

55
4.4.4 Mechanical Installation Inspection

There are nine (9) mechanical installations that need to be periodically inspected. The

mechanical installations are :

i. vacuum pump and air compressor

ii. mechanical ventilation

iii. manually operated overhead crane

iv. passenger hoist

v. control valves and gate valves

vi. scour line (gate valves and electric actuators)

vii. submersible pump

viii. pressure vessel

ix. CO2 fire extinguishers

The main purpose of mechanical installation inspection is to ensure that all mechanical

installation still functional. Figure 4.16 shows the vacuum pump while Figure 4.17 shows the air

compressor.

56
Figure 4.16 Vacuum Pump

Figure 4.17 Air Compressor

57
4.4.5 Electrical Installation Inspection

There are four (4) electrical installations that need to be periodically inspected. The

mechanical installations are :

i. lighting and small power

ii. electrical switchboards and control panels

iii. SCADA / Telemetry System

iv. Structural Lightning Protection System ( SLPS )

4.4.6 Concrete Culvert Sections, Stilling Basin and Outlet Channel Inspection

The concrete culvert structure of horseshoes service spillway is periodically inspected to

detect any major defects that could deter the safety and functionality of the structure.

Periodically all the expansion joints are repaired using epoxy mortar to avoid recurrence of

sealant being washed out.

Stilling basing and outlet channel are periodically inspected to detect any obstruction in

the structures. Stilling basin and outlet channel should be cleared of debris and any major

siltation. If there is some minor vegetation growth especially at crevice of the outlet channel

wing wall, it should be cleared out. Figure 4.18 shows minor vegetation growth at crevice of the

outlet channel wing wall.

58
 Figure 4.18 Minor Vegetation Growth at Crevice of the Outlet C hannel Wing Wall

The condition of the Control Weir structure also is periodically inspected to ensure it is in

good condition. Maintenance should be carried out regularly to remove overgrowth within the

weir structure for smooth operations. The riprap layer at the outlet channel embankment is also

periodically inspected maintained to detect any slope movement or erosion.

4.5 Safe Access, Environment and Working Conditions

Besides the above details related to the safety of Semenyih Dam, a few other aspects are

also considered and maintained by ABASS to ensure the safety to the employees and visiting

parties.

59
4.5.1 Safe Access

Access road which is connected to the service road on the embankment crest is the main

access to Semenyih Dam area. All access including the access road are is ensured safe by

ABASS by practice the procedures below :

 conducting periodically maintenance of the access road.

 appropriate arrangement to ensure that the rolled steel shutters closing the operating

room do not get jammed during inclement weather or consequent to earthquakes.

4.5.2 Security Arrangements

Security arrangements are necessary to protect the structures and to prevent pollution of

the reservoir waters by the public. Methods of the security arrangements generally practiced are :

 erecting locked gates and barriers to prevent unauthorized entry of the public.

 posting guards at the entry points.

Locked gates and barriers are provided to prevent entry of both the vehicles as well as the

public. They are further erected at important structure such spillways, outlets, and control houses

amongst others. The areas are declared restricted areas and notice boards are placed warning the

public not to trespass else they would be prosecuted. The notices should be erected such that they

are discerned from a distance. For specific projects, the office of Majlis Keselamatan Negara

(National Security Council - MKN) should be referred to for any specific requirement.

60
4.6 Emergency Action Plan

Emergency action plan is a predetermined plan of action to be taken to reduce the

potential for property damage and loss of lives in an area affected by a dam break. It is crucial to

conduct the emergency action plan when there is abnormal occurrence of flood exceeding the

Inflow Design Flood (IDF) including Probable Maximum Flood (PMF), or the failure of

spillway gates to release excess. Besides these two factors, there are a few other factors that may

cause dam failure. The factors are :

i. Earthquake (however, the probability is low in Malaysia)

ii. Erosion, slumping/sloughing, or cracking of the dam or abutment

iii. new springs, seeps, bogs, sand boils, increased leakage, or sinkholes

iv. Sudden water releases

v. Abnormal water releases

Emergency action plan be prepared and produced by ABASS in a separate document that

contains :

i. Details of operation of the equipment in the emergency

ii. Communications to warn concerned ABASS offices/personnel, Kajang Municipal

Council (MPKj), and general public likely to be affected, of the state of emergency.

iii. Telephone, addresses and other contact references of the concerned offices

personnel of ABASS

iv. and Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj).

v. Flow charts showing actions to be taken at various stages of the emergency, that

have been defined earlier.

61
The first step of emergency action plan when an event or emergency happened is to determine

the emergency level. There are three (3) levels of emergency which can be categorised as :

i. Level 1 - unusual event; slowly developing

ii. Level 2 - potential dam failure situation; rapidly developing

iii. Level 3 - urgent, dam failure is imminent or in progress

All the (3) three levels of emergency include eight (8) incidents or events. The incidents

or events are :

i. Floods

ii. Excessive seepage

iii. Piping

iv. Earthquake

v. Landslide

vi. Foundation failure

vii. Movement or cracking in concrete

viii. Damage

Next steps to be taken are notification and communication to the local authority who is

Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) and the public. Final steps depend on the level of the

emergency. If Level 1 emergency occurs, the monitoring step should be taken to observe to

development and the progress of the unusual event. If Level 2 emergency occurs, protective

actions should be taken. And finally, if Level 3 emergency occurs, the public should be

evacuated immediately to the safe area.

62
 CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Conclusion

It is found from this study, Konsortium ABASS Sdn. Bhd. (ABASS) plays a crucial role

in ensuring the safety of Semenyih Dam. All necessary actions taken by ABASS are the factors

that cause Semenyih Dam remains safe and stable. Therefore, the local residents of Semenyih

feel safe and do not feel threaten the existence of Semenyih Dam despite the High Hazard Dam

classification by to United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

The finding and results show that the stability of reservoir embankment slope is the most

important component that determines the safety of Semenyih Dam. The Factor of Safety of

Semenyih Dam is adequate and follows the minimum requirement recommended by USACE

which is provided in 1960 and revised in 2000.

Meanwhile, the inspection, monitoring and maintenance by ABASS are divided into five

major components. The components are dam embankment, civil structure, mechanical

installation, electrical installation and finally the concrete culvert, stilling basin and outlet

channel section.

Besides the two factors, the safe access, environment and working condition also play an

important role to ensure that Semenyih Dam is safe and secure. In the same time, emergency

action plan of Semenyih Dam in case of dam failure depends on three level of emergency

whereby ABASS conduct different action for different level of emergency.

63
 Finally, the objectives of this study are considered achieved. The management of

Semenyih Dam in terms of inspection, monitoring and maintenance has been analysed and

investigated while the safety of Semenyih Dam in terms of slope stability also be determined and

analysed. In the same time, the emergency action plan in case of dam failure is also determined.

5.2 Recommendation

There are two necessary actions need to be done to improve the management of

Semenyih Dam in terms of inspection, monitoring and maintenance. The most important action

is increase the number of the employees at Semenyih Dam because there is no enough staff to do

many jobs. Although there are consultants in conducting the annual inspection at Semenyih

Dam, but daily observation and patrol should be done by more than two competent employees.

Second action need to be done to improve the management of Semenyih Dam is to add

the telecommunication access for the employees there. Currently, besides the telephone, there is

no enough telecommunication access whereby there is no computer or internet access at

Semenyih Dam. The computer and internet access is important for the employees to

communicate with Sungai Semenyih Dam Water Treatment Plan at Presint 19, Putrajaya and the

main office of ABASS at Plaza Perangsang, Shah Alam.

If both improvement actions are done, the management of Semenyih Dam can be more

efficient and effective. Hence, it can avoid any difficulties if any major problem occurs at

Semenyih Dam especially in case of dam failure.

64
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