Great attention was given to the construction of bombproofs to cover the men from vertical firing.

These were sometimes under the rampart and the second line of defence (where there was one), often under special traverses, or entirely under ground, and occasionally excavated in the solid rock.

Some had fireplaces and chimneys, and were well ventilated.

Interior slopes were revetted with gabions, crowned by fascines and sand bags.

Gabions were also employed to repair the damage caused by the enemy's artillery.