RIVER WORKS AND NAVIGABLE WATERWAYS

SIDON operates on river structures and navigable waterways across France. Our expertise allows us to carry out complex operations in submerged, constrained, or regulated environments, adhering to the strictest safety standards.

Our qualified teams, including those certified in hyperbaric works (Categories A and B), intervene on all types of river structures:

• Submerged structures (piles, sheet piles, dolphin piles)

• Locks, lock gates, and sluices

• Water intakes, siphons, and spillways

• Riverbanks, quays, and shoreline protections

• Navigation buoys and floating signage

We provide inspection, diagnostics, repair, reinforcement, cleaning, trimming, welding, or sealing operations in submerged zones.

With our in-depth knowledge of hydraulic constraints, co-activity with users, and inland navigation regulations (VNF, local authorities, river management associations...), SIDON ensures efficient, durable, and safe interventions.

Our work is carried out within maintenance, modernization, or emergency programs for inland ports, crossing structures, regulatory structures, or navigation zones.

SIDON, your trusted partner for the safety and longevity of your river infrastructure.

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE IN CONSTRAINED HYDRAULIC ENVIRONMENTS

Driving of sheet piles and river piles

We perform the driving of sheet piles or metal piles for the creation of retaining structures, foundations, and riverbank reinforcements. These structures ensure the stability of river installations, even under high stress conditions. The driving is carried out using a vibrator or hydraulic hammer, depending on the soil type.

Pre-drilling & vibro-driving in challenging terrain

In compact or sensitive terrain, we adapt our driving techniques with pre-drilling and specific vibrators. This method minimizes vibrations transmitted to surrounding structures, while ensuring the precise placement of piles. It is especially recommended in urban environments or near sensitive structures.

Installation of hydraulic or mechanical anchors

We install reliable anchors to secure pontoons, walkways, or floating elements exposed to currents or flooding. The solutions can be mechanical or hydraulic, depending on the expected forces and soil characteristics. This service ensures the safety and durability of floating installations.

Construction and repair of quays, slipways, and fixed pontoons

We construct and renovate quays, slipways, and fixed pontoons made of concrete, steel, or wood. Our work includes pile driving, formwork, concreting, and metal assemblies. Each project is designed to withstand hydraulic constraints and climatic conditions.

Bridge pile reconstruction or reinforcement

SIDON intervenes to reinforce or rebuild river bridge piles, often exposed to erosion or impacts. Our methods include underpinning, concrete lining, grout injections, or submerged trimming. These works extend the lifespan of structures by ensuring their structural stability.

Creation of weirs, fish passes, and hydraulic sluice gates

Sealing and riverbank protection

We build structures that facilitate ecological continuity and water flow management, such as fish passes and sluice gates. These devices are essential for preserving biodiversity while regulating water levels. Each project is integrated into the landscape and designed for low maintenance.

To prevent erosion, we implement mixed solutions for riverbank protection: geomembranes, rockfill, gabions, or vegetation. These protections combine mechanical performance with environmental respect. They are tailored to urban, agricultural, or natural settings.

Mechanical dredging (floating excavator, grab bucket, depper pontoon)

Our teams carry out channel cleaning, port areas, and basin dredging using mechanical methods. This technique allows for the precise removal of accumulated sediments, even at depth. Dredging improves navigability and prevents sedimentation risks.

Hydraulic dredging and air-lift

We use hydraulic dredging or air-lift systems for the gentle extraction of sediments in sensitive areas. These low-impact techniques are ideal for wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), small river branches, or protected natural environments. They allow for precise work without disrupting the local ecosystem.

Cleaning of quay feet, sluices, and lock gates

Cleaning submerged areas such as quay feet, sluices, or lock gates is essential for their proper functioning. We intervene with precision using manual tools, pumps, or underwater equipment. These operations prevent clogging and ensure the longevity of the structures.

Installation of floating pontoons, docks & landing stages

We install floating pontoons, docks, and landing stages for port, recreational, or professional use. The structures are mounted on piles, chains, or floating modules depending on the requirements. Their modular design allows for great adaptability and minimal environmental impact.

Installation of navigation buoys and mooring lines

Our teams handle the installation and maintenance of buoys, chains, and mooring systems for navigation and mooring. The equipment is sized according to current standards and local conditions, ensuring reliable and secure signage for waterway users.

Maintenance of pontoons & floating equipment

We offer complete maintenance services for pontoons and floating equipment: inspection, cleaning, and part replacement. These operations ensure the installations remain in optimal working condition. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns or accidents.

Underwater inspection of river structures

We conduct non-destructive testing to assess the condition of underwater structures: thickness, cracks, and corrosion. Techniques used include ultrasound, video inspections, and direct measurements by divers. These diagnostics are crucial to ensure the safety of the structures.

River bathymetric and topographic surveys

We map riverbeds and cross profiles to study sedimentation or prepare a construction site. Our surveys are carried out with precision equipment, both on land and on water. They serve as the foundation for technical, hydraulic, or environmental studies.

Installation of lighted or mechanical river signage

SIDON installs signaling devices (piles, buoys, lights) that are either fixed or floating, lighted or mechanical. These installations guide users and ensure safe navigation. They can be powered autonomously (solar) or connected to the grid.

Navigation assistance and construction maneuver support

We secure work zones with temporary marking, traffic monitoring, and alert systems. Our teams also provide assistance with boat maneuvers on construction sites. This ensures the smooth execution of interventions without disrupting navigation.

We intervene to recover sunken or submerged objects: boats, equipment, concrete blocks. Lifting is carried out using inflatable balloons, winches, or pumps depending on the situation. These delicate operations are conducted in compliance with underwater safety regulations.

Salvage and lifting of submerged objects