Rockfall is an extremely rapid process involving long travel distances.
Due to these features, when an event occurs, the ability to take
evasive action is practically zero and, thus, the risk of injury
or loss of life is high. Damage to buildings and infrastructure is
quite likely. In many cases, therefore, suitable protection measures
are necessary. This contribution provides an overview of previous
and current research on the main topics related to rockfall. It covers
the onset of rockfall and runout modelling approaches, as well as
hazard zoning and protection measures. It is the aim of this article
to provide an in-depth knowledge base for researchers and practitioners
involved in projects dealing with the rockfall protection of infrastructures,
who may work in the fields of civil or environmental engineering,
risk and safety, the earth and natural sciences.