Engineering hydrometeorological surveys (EHS) are a mandatory type of engineering survey that provides specific design values: flood levels, snow loads, wind speeds, and the recurrence of hazardous events. Without them, there is a risk of rejection during expert review — and, more importantly, a threat to the stability and safety of the facility.
EHS are governed by the same key documents as other types of surveys, as well as by specialized technical standards:
1. The Urban Planning Code of the Russian Federation (Article 47) — establishes the mandatory nature of engineering surveys for design.
2. Government Resolution No. 20 of 19 January 2006 — includes EHS in the list of mandatory survey types.
3. SP 47.13330.2016 — the requirement to conduct EHS is set out in Section 7.
4. Specialized codes of practice: SP 33-101-2003, SP 529.1325800.2023, SP 131.13330.2025, SP 116.13330.2012 — define the methodology for obtaining the required design data.
5. Subparagraphs 3–5 of paragraph 8 of Article 49 of the Urban Planning Code of the Russian Federation — the absence of EHS results or their non-compliance is grounds for refusing to accept design documentation for expert review.
Who needs EHS and when?
Surveys are required at the pre-design research and design stages for:
ℹ️ Developers of facilities in water protection zones, on riverbanks, and in floodplains.
ℹ️ Construction of any capital facilities requiring the determination of climatic loads (wind, snow, temperature).
ℹ️ Design of linear structures (roads, power lines, pipelines) crossing watercourses.
ℹ️ Creation of engineering protection for territories against waterlogging, flooding, and erosion.
Objectives of EHS:
- Obtain reliable design data on hydrological and climatic parameters for structural and foundation designers.
- Assess hazardous natural processes (floods, surges, mudflows, abrasion) and their impact on the facility.
- Justify technical and economic solutions for engineering protection and safe operation.
Risks of not conducting EHS:
- Refusal to approve the design — a violation of the requirements of the Urban Planning Code of the Russian Federation and the SP codes.
- Design errors leading to accidents: flooding, washout, and destruction of structures by wind or snow.
- Financial losses during construction or operation many times greater than the cost of the surveys.
- Administrative liability for violating urban planning and environmental legislation.
In summary, engineering hydrometeorological surveys provide the precise figures that form the basis of a safe and economically sound design. They ensure the legality, durability, and trouble-free operation of your facility.
