Services and Analysis
The SISKA instruments underground cavities with various sensors to monitor physical and chemical parameters (flow rates, electrical conductivity, temperature, radon, CO2, methane, noise, etc.). The SISKA offers its services for setting up hydrogeological surveys and monitoring groundwater quality. A wireless data transmission system makes it possible to consult the data. real-time measurements and set up alarm systems in the event of flooding or excessive gas concentrations.
As part ofimpact studiesThe SISKA monitors reconnaissance drilling and supports geophysical investigations.
The SISKA also specialises in monitoring and interpreting hydrogeological data from exploratory boreholes. It can also support geophysical investigations.
The SISKA specialises in surveying and drawing up geological maps and topographical plans of underground sites (mines, quarries, caves, etc.). Using cutting-edge technology, the SISKA measures and maps underground cavities with a degree of precision adapted to each need (from quick sketches to detailed plans).
The application of new technologies to cavity topography (LiDAR, photogrammetry) involves the development of mapping, data management and archiving concepts. The SISKA is concerned with maintaining existing data while developing new acquisition and visualisation methods.
Mapping and inventory of karstic areas
La Karst" map produced on the basis of an inventory of knowledge (geology, hydrology, vegetation) makes it possible to identify regions prone to karstification and therefore requiring appropriate management. These data serve as a basis for the application of the EPIK method for the protection of groundwater.
A map of risk of collapse and/or FLOOD RISK related to karst can be established at cantonal or municipal level.
L'inventory of sinkholes and lapiaz integrates local knowledge (speleologists, forest rangers, ....) and geographical analysis combining soil mapping, detailed stratigraphy and geological structures. This data is used to identify areas of geological interest with a view to protecting them.
Analysis of collapses and recommendations
The presence of underground voids is often problematic, for example when building a wind turbine, a tunnel or a house. L'exploration of a karstic network and its topographical survey are used to locate the extension of a cavity close to infrastructure. Detecting unknown cavities at depths greater than 15 or 20 metres is often difficult. However, in collaboration with various partners, the SISKA is using and developing various geophysical methods to locate a cavity from the surface. Our experience enables us to provide practical recommendations for managing these cases.
The SISKA is a pioneer in the application of 3D technologies to the modelling underground objects (geology, mines, caves, underground structures) and groundwater.
In karstic regions, the flow of springs and rivers is controlled by the hydrogeological functioning of the underground karst. A 3D analysis of the subterranean layers enables us to assess the basins that feed the springs and therefore their flow rates. This knowledge is essential for assessing the risk of flooding during exceptional rainfall events, and the risk of drought.
The SISKA offers digital solutions for simulate the behaviour of groundwater (real-time pressure and flow forecasts). These results are important not only for the construction of underground structures but also, on the surface, for water management, natural hazards and impact studies, for example the determination of residual flows. To do this, the SISKA uses a number of software programmes such as SWMM5 or RS Minerve.
The SISKA makes a field inventory of polluted cavities and dolines and registers them in the register of polluted sites. Some of these cavities have been known about for a long time, but precise information is often lacking (volume of waste, access, type of waste).
A investigation report is drawn up for each region concerned, including a description of the site, a plan of the cavity, photographs, the volume and type of waste and a clean-up budget.
In coordination with the authorities (Communes, cantons, Confederation, army), the sites are Remediated using specialised equipment and, with the support of civil servants, the waste is sorted and taken to reprocessing centres. The process ends with a report submitted to the authorities.
The SISKA offers a service for identifying bones found in karstic environments.
The SISKA supports and carries out hydrogeological tracing tests by injecting a non-toxic, generally colouring substance into the environment (sinkhole, doline, cave, etc.). Field fluorometers, automatic samplers and fluorosensors are used to identify the sources linked to the injection point(s), and to characterise the link (speed, restitution rate, etc.). The SISKA fluorescence analysis laboratory can quantify tracer concentrations of less than µg/l.
EN 
FR 
DE