Topographic monitoring is a technique based on periodic observation of points. Its objective is to control possible displacements and deformations that may exist, be these movements originated by man or nature.

Monitoring is done through the implementation of a geodesic observation system, composed of stationary points and target points. The station points, from where the target points are observed, are performed with a Total Station based on a tripod, always parked in the same points (materialized in a place outside the influence of the work). The target points, i.e. the points to be observed, can be, for example, reflecting targets.

From the comparison of the position of the points obtained at different times, the displacements that occurred during that period can be calculated. These displacements must be within pre-established limits, never exceeding the alarm criteria in order to avoid disasters.