ROCK FALLS AND ROCK FALL HAZARDS

Rock fall, a geological hazard, has not attracted attention of researchers for a long time. This paper first introduces some concepts followed with connotations, extensions and characteristics of rock falls. In fact, rock falls can occur during various dynamic geological phenomena. Both natural forces and human activities can cause rock falls, which may result in losses of human lives and properties and may affect the development of communities. Therefore, this paper focuses on the rockfall itself, which can help us not only to simplify the resolution of the problem, but also gain a deep insight into mechanisms of rock falls. The authors then recommend that rock falls be treated as one type of geological hazard, i.e. rock fall hazard. At the end, the authors also summarize current research focuses and fundamental issues related to rock falls in the world.