The invention concerns a protective element (1) comprising a plate (2) with a first longitudinal edge (3) and a second longitudinal edge (4) spaced by a distance (D) from each other, and a pivot bearing (5, 5') arranged substantially parallel to the first longitudinal edge and/or the second longitudinal edge, designed for transferring forces, whereby the plate (2) is arranged mobile on a substructure (6) to absorb the forces exerted on the protective element, in particular on a protection system against floods and avalanches, and capable of being arranged mobile relative to said substructure (6), in a pivot zone (S). The invention is characterised in that the pivot bearing (5, 5') is mounted sealed, and in order to compensate the forces being exerted on the plate (2) or on the bearing (5, 5'), said bearing is placed at a distance, at most a quarter of the distance (D) of a geometric axis, optionally of the plate (2) axis (7) passing through the centre of gravity, between the first and second longitudinal edges, substantially parallel to the longitudinal edges (3, 4). Depending of the configuration of its surface, the protective element (1) can be produced in the form of a walkway or a lane, or carry solar collectors, or as means for transferring forces, and integrated in a system of protection against floods and avalanches.