Further Training in Measurement Technology:
Between Rock and Data
The Mountain Fell – How Measurement Data Create Safety
The first day began early in the morning, shrouded in fog. The short hike to the Allmenalp rockfall site appeared idyllic at first glance: cows grazing peacefully, flowers swaying in the wind, and colourful dots slowly moving up the via ferrata. But approaching the actual rockfall area suddenly revealed the vast dimensions of a dramatic landslide.
On 23 February 2023, between 15,000 and 20,000 cubic metres of rock broke off here. The hiking trail and a channel below the waterfall were buried under debris.
The Allmenalp lies east of Kandersteg.
From afar, the thundering waterfall is clearly visible.
Pure idyll.
The weather was cloudy, but it did nothing to dampen the atmosphere.
On site, the group gained detailed insights into the analyses surrounding the rockfall. Since December, the area had been closely monitored by GEOTEST. Two different models – with and without early warning – led to the conclusion that spontaneous collapses were indeed possible.
The role of measurement technology became particularly evident: tilt sensors, radar measurements, and photographic documentation were crucial for interpreting the events that followed.
Dani Tobler explained the situation using printed material.
Map section of the rockfall area.
The group’s mood was excellent.
Alongside interesting technical background, there were also some amusing anecdotes.
Discussions were lively and engaging.
We have to identify the processes early.
- Daniel Tobler
The path runs along the Allmegrat stream.
Everyone listened attentively.
Daniel Tobler, who gave the introductory presentation, described vividly how only a few hours remained between the first alarm and issuing a prediction, since several residential houses were located within a potential danger zone. Because the situation was assessed correctly, the area could be closed off in time – without damage to people or property.
Particularly interesting: some insights were gained thanks to a video recorded by a tourist in a gondola. The importance of continuous measurements and precise modelling for protecting people and infrastructure was also highlighted.
The meadow consists of very soft material, which would have stopped the rock blocks had they rolled that far.
Water emerging from the Allmenalp waterfall.
The channel carrying water from the waterfall was covered with ten to twelve metres of rock.
Besides debris, large rock blocks also broke off.
It’s only here that you realise the sheer force with which nature can intervene – and how important it is to measure precisely and in time.
– Participant
The rockfall site was viewed from a safe distance.
Rocks in front of the break-off area.
In addition to rocks and boulders, a lot of mud and wood accumulated.
The houses luckily remained undamaged.
Interesting views from all angles.
The participants remained attentive throughout; the interest was palpable.
The eyewitnesses were standing there trembling, helplessly watching as the dust cloud rose above the debris.
Some rock blocks will now be used as cornerstones.
In the Afternoon: Into the Mountain.
An unusual place – the access tunnel leading into the main tunnels.
Lötschberg Base Tunnel
Curious and impressed, we drove with the BLS minibus through the massive entrance lock of the Lötschberg Base Tunnel. This monumental engineering project, which has secured the Spiez–Brig axis since 2007, will be expanded under full operation starting in 2028. This means: blasting in 10-minute time windows, millimetre-precision work during train breaks – a logistical masterpiece.
Of the two tunnel tubes, only one has been fully completed so far. Construction of the second tube’s completion will begin in 2028.
The guided tour inside the Lötschberg Tunnel was very well received.
The group asked many questions and showed great interest.
Fascinating insights were provided – ones normally hidden from the public.
Participants from various locations engaged in conversation.
Of course, everyone brought their GEOTEST vest.
Trains will pass through here at speeds of around 200 km/h in the future.
A temporary exhibition inside the tunnel displayed progress and key milestones.
Cross-sectional illustration showing the cables running along the tracks.
View into the shaft.
"Amazing and impressive,” concluded one participant.
After experiencing, it was time to reflect. Together, the interdisciplinary group asked: What do GEOTEST’s measurement technology services achieve today? And how can the company continue to develop innovative methods?
Among other things, a new data portal was analysed – the digital space where clients interact with measurement data. It quickly became clear: it’s not just about numbers. It’s about trust. About clarity. And – as Christoph Schilter put it so aptly – about the fact that even devices can evoke emotions.
The workshop became a playground for visions. The “Green Field” board collected particularly utopian ideas – from new sensor types to entirely new service concepts. Next, these dreams were transferred to the “Innovation Board” as concrete, feasible ideas.
The room buzzed with activity: discussions, shifts in perspective, small and large sparks of inspiration. And always coffee breaks – which were often nearly as productive. There was lively exchange: laughter, debate, and planning.
Diligent note-taking and pinning.
Group warm-up exercises strengthened team spirit.
Dani Tobler and Christoph Schilter analyzed results in the background while participants discussed the next question.
All participants briefly presented current projects.
Insights were recorded analogously and collected.
Geologists’ speed dating.
Alongside serious discussions, there were also humorous moments.
One project responds to an event. Another aims to shape the natural environment. Between them stand we – with sensors, data, questions, and predictions.
Notes were pinned on boards.
Insight and Foresight
The training in Kandersteg vividly demonstrated how crucial precise measurements are – not just as a technical discipline, but as the foundation for well-informed decisions. Whether identifying unstable rock formations or monitoring highly complex infrastructure like the Lötschberg Base Tunnel: our instruments do not simply deliver data. They provide context. They make changes visible – even before they become dangerous.
Accuracy is not a pedantic virtue, but a fundamental prerequisite for safety. Because only what we measure precisely can we meaningfully predict – and only what we observe continuously can we influence in time.
This training was therefore far more than a professional exchange: it was a reaffirmation of how important our contribution is – and how much future lies in every single measurement.
Group photo.
