Project Case Study: Protecting the French Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Finance Against Century Floods

Demountable Flood Protection Solution for the French Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Finance

Bergtec delivered a high-performance flood protection solution for the French Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Finance, located along the Seine in Paris. This project delivered 600 metres of custom-designed, demountable flood barriers, engineered to withstand a water head of up to 2.50 metres. With full design-build capabilities, Bergtec collaborated with a contracting partner to deliver an aesthetic and effective solution, tailored to meet the Ministry's high standards for safety, durability, and structural integrity.
Demountable Flood Protection Solution for the French Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Finance
Demountable flood protection wall mounted barrier

Problem: Protecting Critical National Facilities from Century Floods - A Complex Solution for Multi-Structure Infrastructure

The Ministry’s buildings faced flood risks due to their location along the Seine, requiring a flexible flood defence system that would protect a wide range of entry points and access areas, including doorways, staircases, vehicle entrances, and ventilation grilles. Key project challenges included:

  • Varied Protection Needs: The range of entrances (doorways, staircases, vehicle and lorry access points, and ventilation openings) called for adaptable flood defences.
  • Multiple Surface Types: Surfaces varied widely, including macadam, stone pavements, concrete, limestone, and clip-wall panels.
  • High Water Pressure: The defences needed to withstand extreme pressure, necessitating precise engineering and reinforced foundation designs.
  • Stringent Safety and Compliance Requirements: Full site management was required to ensure that the project adhered to safety regulations without disrupting Ministry operations.

 

These factors demanded a highly adaptable, resilient solution that could be deployed quickly, stored discreetly, and seamlessly integrated with the existing infrastructure—all while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the Ministry’s architectural design.

Solution: Custom Demountable Flood Barrier System with High-Performance Standards

Bergtec’s flood barrier system for the Ministry provided a fully integrated solution tailored to address both technical and aesthetic challenges. Our demountable barriers were designed for easy installation, high durability, and exceptional performance. Key aspects of the solution included:

  • Demountable Flood Barriers: Removable and easy to install, these barriers offer an aesthetic alternative to permanent flood walls. When not in use, they can be discreetly stored, preserving the Ministry’s architectural appeal.
  • Custom Designs: The flood barriers were custom-engineered to meet the specific needs of the Ministry’s location, accommodating diverse entry points and various surface types with tailored solutions.
  • Versatile Installation: Our demountable system was designed to fit seamlessly with both new and existing structures, requiring minimal adjustments to the Ministry’s existing architecture.
  • Durable Materials: The barriers utilise long-lasting, corrosion-free, and weather-resistant components, ensuring reliability and minimal maintenance over time.
  • High Performance: Designed to meet international standards, Bergtec’s demountable flood barriers deliver very low leak rates and withstand high water pressure, offering a dependable flood defence solution.
  • Discreet and Aesthetic Integration: Cast-in solutions and concealed bolts and nuts ensured that the barriers fit seamlessly with the Ministry’s structures. This approach preserved the visual integrity of the building’s facade and met the strict aesthetic requirements specified by the client.

 

Bergtec’s team provided full site management, collaborating with the Ministry’s engineering department and the project’s architect to ensure smooth implementation and compliance with safety regulations. Final installation tests confirmed that the barriers met all contractual standards, providing the Ministry with a robust, reusable flood defence system.

Project Highlights in Pictures

Results and Impact

Strengthening Flood Protection for the French Ministry's National Infrastructure

The deployment of Bergtec’s custom-designed demountable flood barriers at the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Finance delivered multiple measurable benefits:

  • Enhanced Flood Protection: The Ministry’s premises are now safeguarded against century-level floods by 600 metres of high-performance, demountable barriers, securing both the buildings and public assets.
  • Architectural Integrity Maintained: The removable barriers preserve the aesthetic integrity of the site, offering a visually appealing alternative to permanent flood walls without compromising protection.
  • Reliable and Long-Lasting Defence: Built to withstand high-pressure floodwaters and designed to be easily demounted and stored, Bergtec’s barriers represent a durable, cost-effective investment for national infrastructure.

 

Through a tailored, high-quality flood defence solution, Bergtec has enhanced the Ministry’s flood resilience, maintained the visual standards of its historic location, and reinforced public safety protocols.

Protect Your Site with Our Demountable Flood Barriers

This project highlights Bergtec’s expertise in providing effective, adaptable flood protection for critical infrastructure. Discover how our demountable flood barriers can secure your site while preserving its visual appeal. Learn more on our Demountable Flood Barriers page or contact us for a custom solution.