The Rochaille passage, on the RD 900, which connects France and Italy through the Ubaye Valley in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is one of the most sensitive roadways in terms of security. It is a major route linking France and Italy via the Col de Larche. The danger of rockfalls that can block the road is well-documented and has already caused the complete isolation of certain towns a few years ago, as well as the closure of this access to Italy. Beyond the safety of people and property, this situation has a significant economic impact on access to ski resorts, the organization of major media events, and the flow of trucks to Italy. Securing this road became essential.

Always in pursuit of innovation, Maccaferri has created HELLOMAC, an intelligent impact alert system. HELLOMAC is a cutting-edge solution that leverages the Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor technology to detect events such as impacts, detachments, and deformations on installed structures. This system can be installed even in remote areas, enabling real-time alerts to affected communities.

To address project management issues, HELLOMAC devices have been installed on new screens provided by France Maccaferri as well as on those in place since 2019.

In the event of an impact, several scenarios have been studied; some trigger a temporary light signal and alarm, while others do so permanently depending on the rockfall barrier line affected. In all situations where an impact is recorded, an SMS and an email are sent to the local operator/manager with an indication of the activated cable (impact at SEL or MEL) to initiate the appropriate response.

The La Rochaille site is the first French project to integrate the intelligent alert system. This project is part of Maccaferri's numerous projects incorporating HELLOMAC smart sensor technology.