• The Journal of Engineering Geology
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• v.24 no.3
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• pp.383-396
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• 2014

The condition, characteristics, and stability of slopes, as well as the consequences of slope failure, need to be understood for the proper stabilization of slopes and preclusion of potential disasters arising from slope failure. Here, a slope code system (SCS) that succinctly and accurately reflects the various conditions of a slope is proposed. The SCS represents the condition, characteristics, and geotechnical stability of slopes, as well as the consequences of slope failure, and the method is quickly and easily applied to a given slope. The SCS comprises five elements: 1) the slope material; 2) the genetic origin (rock type) and geological structure of the slope; 3) the geotechnical stability of the slope; 4) the probability of failure and remedial works made upon the slope; and 5) the consequences of failure. A letter code is selected from each element, and the result of the evaluation and classification of the slope is given as a five-letter code. Because the condition, characteristics, and geotechnical stability of a slope, as well as the consequences of slope failure, are provided by the SCS, this system will provide an effective mechanism for the maintenance and management of slopes, and will also allow more informed decision-making for determining which slopes should be prioritized for remedial measures.