1.2 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
Flooding can occur naturally following a period of precipitation or high tides as well as less
predictive circumstances such as bursts, malfunctions or blockages. This document deals
primarily with the reduction of risk of natural flooding by preventing flood water from
reaching protected property, using barriers which require full or part erection or closure during
a flood emergency. It is one of a suite of guidance documents aimed at reducing flood risks
by blocking the pathway of the flood water. Guidance on the temporary or permanent sealing
of pathways for floodwater within and around the properties themselves is provided within
CIRIA (2001) and DTLR (2002).