AGS Magazine - July/August 2018

July / August 2018

RESERVOIR ENGINEERING Is there is a looming problem of inadequate numbers of qualified engineers?

AGS MEMBERS WIN BIG AT GE AWARDS 2018

AGS DATA - WHY IS IT SO DIFFICULT TO GET?

CONTAMINATED LAND GROUND INVESTIGATION

A full rundown of all of this year’s winners at the Ground Engineering Awards

Chris Raison discusses how AGS data can sometimes go to waste

A comprehensive guide from the AGS Safety Working Group

ABOUT THE AGS

Chair’s Foreword As we move into the summer holiday period, despite the hot weather and correspondingly fiery political climate our members appear to be experiencing a healthy level of work. The AGS is endeavouring to provide support to its members in producing new guidance and seeking to influence the industry. The occupational health guidance for contaminated land investigations has some good advice; for example, avoiding exposure to contaminants, if possible, rather than having to wear bulky PPE/RPE is particularly apt at the moment.

Geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineers are not alone as skilled professionals that are worried about future skills shortages.

This fact is highlighted in the article concerning the declining numbers of reservoir Panel Engineers. The Loss Prevention Working Group encouraged the AGS to get together with the British Dam Society and write a joint letter to the ICE. We will continue to work with the

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BDS and ICE to help solve this potential problem and will be reporting back to our members in due course.

There is a brief report in this magazine on how the AGS Senate works for the conducting of AGS business.

Members are welcome to put their names forward for election in various categories to Senate when elections are held next April at Members’ Day. We are looking forward to our Ground Risk event on 12th September, with a fantastic range of speakers and programme now confirmed.

The early bird discount ends on Tuesday 31st July so get in soon to take advantage of it.

We would be interested in your feedback on the magazine and our future plans. Please contact ags@ags.org.uk if you have any comments.

The Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists (AGS) is a nonprofit making trade association established to improve the profile and quality of geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering.

The membership comprises of UK organisations and individuals having a common interest in the business of ground investigation, geotechnics, geoenvironmental engineering, engineering geology, geochemistry, hydrogeology, and other related disciplines.

EDITORIAL BOARD Neil Parry, AGS Chairman Ciaran Jennings, Forum Court Associates Caroline Kratz, Forum Court Associates Katie Kennedy, Forum Court Associates Chris Swainston, Soils Limited Stephen West, Ramboll Calum Spires, Equipe Group Julian Lovell, Equipe Group EDITORIAL STORY If you have a news story or event which you’d like to tell our editorial team about, please contact the AGS on 020 8658 8212 or ags@ags.org.uk. Please note that articles should act as opinion pieces and not directly advertise a company. The AGS is under no obligation to feature articles and events received.

CONTACT US Association of Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Specialists Forum Court, Office 205 Devonshire House Business Centre, 29-31 Elmfield Road Bromley, Kent, BR1 1LT

 ags@ags.org.uk

Neil Parry AGS Chair

 020 8658 8212  Association of Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Specialists  @agsgeotech www.ags.org.uk

Inside this month’s issue

FEATURE PAGE 14

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AGS Members win big at GE Awards

COVER STORY PAGE 10  Chris Hoskins discusses the lack of suitably experienced Panel Engineers to manage the maintenance of the UK’s reservoirs

The AGS would like to congratulate its award-winning Members who took home a host of accolades at the recent Ground Engineering Awards.

Winners were announced at a gala awards ceremony on 6th June 2018 at the London Hilton on Park Lane in front of the biggest names in the industry including over 750 industry leaders.

AGS DATA - WHY IS IT SO DIFFICULT TO GET? PAGE 16  An opinion piece from Chris Raison regarding AGS Data and how it can be better utilised.

Q & A: VIVIEN DENT PAGE 20  The AGS Magazine conducts a Q & A with RSK’s Vivien Dent.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH FOR CONTAMINATED LAND INVESTIGATIONS PAGE 22  Full AGS Guidance document for contaminated land GIs.

MORE INSIDE

PAGE 4-7 

News in Short: Incl. Introduction to LPA 66

PAGE 26 

Working Group Focus: Senate & Laboratories Working Groups

PAGE 28 

Standards Update: July 2018

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News in Short Introduction to LPA 66 – Overview and Review of the Construction Act Payment Provisions

to be implemented in practice. The key points covered are; •

the definition of construction contracts which are covered by the Act;

• the core provisions of the Acts, including Part II of the Housing Grants (Construction and the right to interim payments, the right to be Regeneration Act) 1996 sets out provisions informed about the amount due, disallowing to ensure that payments are made promptly pay when paid clauses, the right to suspend throughout the supply performance for non-payment; chain and that disputes are The government • payment notices, the client resolved swiftly. undertook must issue a payment notice to review the The 1996 Act was amended within five days of the date for

by Part 8 of the Local effectiveness of the payment, even if no amount Democracy, Economic 2009 Act 5 years after is due, or the supplier’s Development and application for payment it came into effect Construction Act 2009 to can be treated as if it is the in October 2011. The close loop holes within its results of the review are payment notice; provisions. The government • pay less notices, the payer undertook to review the expected soon. must pay the notified sum effectiveness of the 2009 Act unless he issues a pay less 5 years after it came into effect notice in the manner required by the Act; in October 2011. The results of the review are and expected soon.

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LPA 66 describes the provisions of the above acts, and how their requirements are intended 4

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•

implied mechanisms, if the contract fails to provide an adequate mechanism for

determining the due date and the final date for payment then the Act will imply one.

It is anticipated that the government review will highlight the following issues; •

•

inflated interim applications, where the payee issues a payment notice there is a temptation to use an inflated value as there is no requirement for the notified sum to be a proper value; and the form and content of a valid payment notice, there has been much litigation over

what constitutes a valid payment notice.

LPA 66 – Overview and Review of the Construction Act Payment Provisions can be downloaded here.

LPA prepared by Zita Mansi, Associate, BLM Article contributed by David Hutchinson AGS Honorary Member

The top three AGS publications for July 2018 1. Loss Prevention Guidance 2017 - AGS Member Version 2. AGS Guidelines for Good Practice in Geotechnical Ground Investigation 3. Guidance on Occupational Health for Contaminated Land Investigations To download the publications for free; click here.

New AGS Members The AGS is pleased to announce three new members and one affiliate member have been accepted by the Membership Panel and approved by the Senate – Allied Exploration & Geotechnics Ltd, CC Ground Investigations Ltd, Terra Firma (Wales) and Datgel.

AGS Membership is open to geotechnical and geoenvironmental companies who employ specialists who can provide competent services and also affiliate companies who provide support services and supplies to the members.

Full details of membership criteria can be found at http://www.ags.org.uk/about/become-amember/

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SiLC Affiliate Scheme

Assisting post-Grads towards SiLC Registration

T

he SiLC Affiliant Scheme is due to be launched later this year to assist graduates and those who have already progressed beyond graduation to work towards SiLC Registration.

A challenge for all professional bodies is to support individuals with the potential to become full members and bring them in at entry level membership. It is proposed that the SiLC Affiliate Scheme will create a potential pipeline of graduates and more experienced individuals working towards full membership and Chartered Status with their professional institutions, the latter being a pre-requisite for SiLC Registration.

Access to advice and mentoring for career progression through the SiLC Affiliate Scheme

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would : •

Encourage each individual to pursue professional qualifications and memberships;

•

Encourage people to recognise the brownfield sector as a career path;

•

Give mentored access to the Brownfield Skills Development Framework;

•

Help Institutions build membership;

•

Funnel graduates into Institutions and towards SiLC Registration in the longer term;

•

Create greater momentum and growth in the SiLC Register and underpin the SiLC Register in the long term.

Role Adviser

Qualification A qualified member of the host Professional Body or the Membership Development staff of the host Professional Body

Mentor

A current SiLC registered on the SiLC list of approved mentors.

The proposal is set out below which shows the three tiers leading to SiLC Registration together with the connection between the SiLC Affiliate Scheme and the Brownfield Skills Development Framework and the level of support which can be offered at each tier. An applicant can join the scheme at any stage.

The applicant will have access to an Adviser as they work towards Chartership. Subsequently they would gain access to a Mentor as they work towards SiLC Registration beyond the point at which they attain their individual Chartership.

The roles of the Adviser and Mentor are considered to be distinct and undertaken by a different group at each stage. The roles are presented below along with an indication of the range of support to be offered.

Applicants would be expected to demonstrate the following : •

That they are graduate members (or the equivalent) of one of the qualifying Professional Organisations;

Support Offered The aim would be to provide guidance to the candidate on the requirements of gaining the professional qualification with their relevant Professional Organisation. The Adviser will be familiar with the requirements of the host Professional Organisation and how this fits into the SiLC programme but will not necessarily be a SiLC The aim of the Mentor is to offer specific guidance on the requirements of becoming a SiLC beyond the attainment of the initial Chartership with the host Professional Organisation. The Mentor will not necessarily be from the same Professional Organisation as the applicant but will be professsionally qualified with one of the Professional Organisations by virtue of being a registered SiLC. •

Have a genuine interest in the brownfield land sector;

•

Be aiming to become a full member of a qualifying Professional Organisation and to join the SiLC Register;

•

Their commitment to the code of conduct of their host Professional Organisation and that of SiLC.

The annual membership cost of the SiLC Affiliate Scheme would be £50 plus VAT. This fee would include 20% discount on the attendance fee for the SiLC Annual Forum.

An announcement will be made by SiLC when the lists of Advisers and Mentors are complete and everything is ready for the scheme to be launched.

For further information on SiLC visit https:// www.silc.org.uk/ or find us on LinkedIn.

Article contributed by Roger Clark Chartered Engineer SiLC & Marlowclark Consulting Ltd

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Association of Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Specialists GROUND RISK: WHY TAKE THE CHANCE? A Lessons Learnt Conference WEDNESDAY 12th

CAVENDISH CONFERENCE CENTRE, 22 DUCHESS MEWS, LONDON W1G 9DT

IMAGE COURTESY OF COFFEY

CPD EVENT

Geotechnical Engineering specialists and geoenvironmentalists understand that risk is fundamental to their work as they deal with materials and environments shaped by natural and manmade processes. This risk can be managed but does need clear decision making and investment at an early stage in project development to greatly reduce the potential for unexpected costs and delays.

This full day conference organised by the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists, will provide a focus on how ground risk can be identified, quantified, and measured for the whole project team using cutting edge technology allied with professional experience. It’ll also look at the legal aspects of contaminated land and

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specific areas where we can improve the quality of assessment and the risk associated with getting it wrong.

Ground Risk: Why Take the Chance? is aimed at attendees involved in development projects from concept and planning through to implementation, not solely for geotechnical and contamination specialists, to help drive a change in the way ground risk is considered in the UK and beyond.

Speakers for the event include Stephen Tromans, who is recognised as one of the leading practitioners in Environmental Law in the UK, award-winning geologist Dr Jacqueline Skipper, Dr Andrew Smith, Coffey and Brownfield Briefing /GE Award winner George Flower of Arcadis.

REGISTRATION: 09:15 KEYNOTE PRESENTATION Dr Jacqueline Skipper, Senior Partner and Senior Geologist at the Geotechnical Consulting Group

MANAGING RISK FOR A DEEP BASEMENT EXCAVATION Dr Andrew Smith, Coffey

THE APPLICATION OF ADVANCED CONTINUOUS SURFACE WAVE DATA TO MANAGING GROUND RISK Chris Milne, Ground Stiffness Surveys

INVESTIGATION AND TREATMENT OF CHALK SOLUTION FEATURES Allan Bell, Hydrock

IDENTIFYING AND MINIMISING RISK THROUGH A VALUE ENGINEERED GEOTECHNICAL SOLUTION & CASE STUDY: 36HRS INSIDE QUEEN STREET TUNNEL, GLASGOW Natalie Bews and Eric Downey, Structural Soils

AN OVERVIEW OF LEGAL DEVELOPMENTS UNDER PART IIA AND CONTAMINATED LAND Stephen Tromans, QC, 39 Essex Chambers

INCORRECT CHARACTERISATION Gavin Allsopp, NHBC

WASTE CLASSIFICATION FOR SOILS Mike Plimmer, Geotechnical and Environmental Associates George Flower, Arcadis This is a continuing professional development (CPD) event and all attending delegates will receive a certificate of attendance following the conference.

EARLY BIRD OFFER

Register before Tuesday 31st July to receive over 22% off the advertised ticket price. AGS members may attend for £109, (reduced from £140) whereas non-AGS members may attend for £179, (reduced from £210). Prices exclude VAT. Please note this early bird offer is only available until Tuesday 31st July and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Full price points will come into effect from 1st August.

Event registration closes on Tuesday 4th September.

To register your attendance or for details on our available sponsorship packages please contact Caroline Kratz on 0208 658 8212 or email ags@ags.org.uk

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UK Reservoirs Where are the panel enginee

T

he Reservoirs Act 1975 was set up to provide a legal framework for the creation, operation and maintenance of large raised reservoirs with a capacity in excess of 25,000 m3 above the lowest level of the downstream land (soon to be reduced to 10,000 mÂł). The Act and its associated Statutory Instruments provide a legal and administrative framework for the construction and management of reservoirs in a manner which reduces to an acceptable level the risks associated with the escapes of water from reservoirs.

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The preamble to the Act gives a legal statement of the objectives of the Act as to make further provision against the escapes of water from large reservoirs but in simple terms, this has been taken to be a requirement to ensure that the dam and reservoir are as safe (against an escape of water) as reasonably possibly for the persons and property downstream within reasonable economic considerations.

A key element of the Act is the requirement that the design, construction and management of large raised reservoirs must be under the direction of qualified civil engineers who

engineer (the Construction Engineer) who is appointed to oversee the reservoir creation, to issue certificates at specific milestones during construction and remain responsible during the first filling and the early stages of use for between three to five years after the initial certification.

ers? have been peer reviewed as having appropriate levels of qualification and expertise.

The Act requires these engineers to be on various panels, managed by DEFRA/ EA, with different panels for strictly defined types of reservoirs (impounding/non impounding/service) and levels of expertise for varying duties.

Subsequently, all existing reservoirs are required to be under the continual supervision of a Supervising Engineer; must be inspected by a higher level of panel engineer at a frequency not exceeding ten years or more frequently after construction in some instances; must have certain works carried out under the control of such engineers; information and monitoring records must be maintained at specified frequencies in certain formats; and works recommended in the interests of safety, (ie against the escape of water) must be carried out within certain timescales. There are also requirements if the reservoir is to be raised, abandoned, discontinued or if major works are to be carried out. The duties are carried out by various levels of panel engineer depending on whether the reservoir is impounding surface flows, nonimpounding or a service reservoir, although in recent years, the latter two levels of panel engineer have essentially withered and the majority of experienced engineers are now on the All Reservoirs Panel who can carry out works for any reservoir. There is also a panel of generally The Act requires younger engineers (the these engineers to Supervising Panel) who be on various panels, have less experience and managed by DEFRA/ expertise but are able to carry out the generally EA, with different annual, essentially visual, panels for strictly visits to the reservoir to defined types of observe and report on any reservoirs... changes.

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The creation of a reservoir requires a panel

The Act has operated well but the number of panel engineers has dropped

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bureaucracy. Additionally, applicants substantially over the last 20 years or so previously had to be fellows of the ICE and to and is now threatening to be inadequate for have had relevant design and site supervision the operation of the Act as intended. There experience. This has not been maintained are also concerns about the adequacy of and has widened the pool of the experience of some of applicants, but this has the recent appointees. An Areas of resulted in a reduction in applicant to any of the panels inadequacies the levels of experience and is required to demonstrate of knowledge and expertise in some instances. their capability and expertise are probed experience and is generally and a recommendation The average age of the interviewed by a panel of their peers who are already made as to whether the panel engineers has also increased with time with on the relevant or higher applicant is considered many having retired in the panel. Areas of inadequacies suitable or not. last few years and numerous of knowledge and expertise others similarly due to leave are probed and a recommendation the panels in the near future. This has resulted made as to whether the applicant is considered in the numbers on the All Reservoirs Panel suitable or not. If a rejection is recommended, falling by about 25% to about 30 in the last four comments are usually given as to the years and by a somewhat greater amount from perceived weaknesses and areas of inadequate the formation of the panels in the mid 1980s expertise. Applicants are then required when reservoir legislation was significantly to address these issues and encouraged to amended by the 1975 Act. The reduction in the reapply after a year or two.

Supervising Panel has been more alarming with a reduction to a current level of about 150 Reservoir engineering depends substantially engineers from three times this number in on a “feel” for the subject as much as strict the mid 1980s. Concurrently, there has been engineering knowledge. It relies on an ability a steady increase in reservoir to consider and apply the numbers within the Act as interacting disciplines of Thus there is a numerous flood, amenity, geotechnical, hydrogeological, looming problem of hydrological, hydraulic and inadequate numbers of farming and environmental reservoir schemes have environmental engineering qualified engineers to been created. in addition to the impacts carry out the required of vegetation, animals and Thus there is a looming climate. Consequently, this duties... problem of inadequate knowledge and expertise can numbers of qualified only be acquired by sufficient engineers to carry out the required duties, training and experience. This has become and this will also impact on the training of increasingly difficult in recent years with the future potential applicants to the panels. There tendency for design and construct contracts is now little opportunity for UK engineers to be used, lack of site experience both in the to gain experience of site work and to work UK and overseas and cost cutting within the on the larger, typically major water supply, industry. There has also been the introduction schemes. No such large schemes have been of separate and varying legislation for Wales built in the UK for several decades whilst and Scotland to complicate the situation overseas work is now typically staffed by and the creeping effects of ever increasing

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local engineers. There also appears to be an issue that many of the younger engineers do not have the breadth of broad education and engineering experience or the appreciation of the complex issues involved for reservoir creation. The appreciation that reservoir creation is an evolving design and construction process, as are most projects involving a substantial geotechnical element, appears to be less accepted these days. Similarly, there have always been some panel engineers who have not always adequately considered the geotechnical issues sufficiently, together with the impacts of the relevant bio-engineering, vegetational and animal issues and this blinkered approach now seems to be more prevalent.

The opinion of the AGS is that there is a looming problem with the future numbers and quality of people on the various panels of engineers.

With fewer experienced panel engineers, more reservoirs to be managed, the deterioration of dams under the effects of age and lack

of maintenance, and the impacts of climate change and human activity, reservoir safety is likely to be compromised in the future.

Action is required to improve the training and guidance for the younger engineers who are ultimately aspiring to All Reservoir Panel status.

A joint letter regarding the declining numbers of Panel Engineers was sent from the AGS and BDS to Professor Lord Robert Mair, President of the Institution of Civil Engineers and Professor David Balmforth Chair of the ICE Reservoirs Committee. The letter can be viewed here.

A response to the letter from Professor David Balmforth Chair of the ICE Reservoirs Committee has been received and can be viewed here.

Article contributed by Chris Hoskins AGS Honorary Member Article reviewed by AGS Loss Prevention Working Group

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Ground Engineering Awards: AGS Members win big in 2018

T

he AGS would like to congratulate its award-winning Members who took home a host of accolades at the recent Ground Engineering Awards.

Winners were announced at a gala awards ceremony on 6th June 2018 at the London Hilton on Park Lane in front of the biggest names in the industry. Celebrating its 10th anniversary the event was attended by over 750 industry leaders.

Claire Smith, editor of Ground Engineering Project of the Decade 2015- Queensferry Crossing, Firth of Forth.

Transport Scotland with Jacobs Arup JV, Ramboll and Forth Crossing Bridge Constructor Award for Technical Innovation Equipe Group – sensor activated failsafe enabled rig guarding system – SAFER G Consulting Firm of the Year Ramboll

magazine, commented, “This year, the ground engineering sector has excelled not just in terms of quality but also quantity with our highest number of entries ever from a more diverse group of businesses. I’d like to congratulate everyone on the shortlist getting to the final stage was not an easy task this year – but we have some very worthy winners this year who should be proud of their achievement.”

AGS winners of the 10th Ground Engineering Awards include the following:

Sustainability Award Ramboll – Walthamstow Wetlands Reedbeds UK Project with a value between £3M and £15M Bachy Soletanche, Robert Bird Group and GCG – Spire London UK Project with a value of over £15M Bouygues (UK) and Campbell Reith – UCLH Phase 4 Proton Beam Therapy project

Ground Investigation Project of the Year Award Award for Equipment Innovation Fugro Amphibious Buggy – Intertidal Drilling Atkins Mouchel JV and Raeburn Drilling and Geotechnical – A9 Dualling Dalraddy to Slochd Rig Stage 2 Preliminary Ground Investigation Geoenvironmental Project of the Year Arcadis Consulting UK – characterisation Rising Star Award of chlorinated solvent plume by design and Thomas St John (Jacobs) delivery of insitu remediation UK Project with a Geotechnical Value Between Ground Investigation Specialist of the Year £1M and £3M Central Alliance Mott MacDonald and Bachy Soletanche – Linton Bridge, North Yorkshire Entries for the 2019 Ground Engineering Awards will be open in September 2018. The 2019 event will return to the Hilton Park Lane Hotel, London on 5th June. For more information visit https:// awards.geplus.co.uk/ 14

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Geoenvironmental Project of the Year: Arcadis Consulting UK

Ground Investigation Project of the Year: Atkins Mouchel JV / Raeburn Drilling & Geotechnical

Ground Investigation Specialist of the Year: Central Alliance

Award for Technical Innovation: Equipe Group – SAFER G

UK Project with a Geotechnical Value Between £1M and £3M: Mott MacDonald and Bachy Soletanche

Rising Star Award: Thomas St John (Jacobs)

Award Presenter: AGS Chair - Neil Parry

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AGS Digital Data Why is it so Difficult to Get? An opinion piece, written by Chris Raison, Director of Raison Foster Associates

A

avoids the filtering and random selection GS digital data is the source data that hardcopy data can be subject to. But is for most ground investigations. It it actually achieving these benefits across allows rapid and accurate passing of the construction industry? Why is it so often information through the entire construction difficult to obtain? Why isn’t AGS data being team, from the Site Investigation and universally used on all projects, from big to Laboratory Testing Contractor, to the ultimate small? What can the AGS do user of the data; the Engineer, ...AGS data about this? Does the AGS Main Contractor or Specialist actually recognise that there Contractors. removes the need is a problem? for users to re-enter As an ideal, AGS data data for use in the removes the need for users Part of the problem is to re-enter data for use viewpoint design. It increases in the design. It increases accuracy by avoiding Most Site Investigation accuracy by avoiding typos typos and data and Laboratory Testing and data translation errors, Contractors record and store translation errors, and and it speeds up review and it speeds up review and their data using software assessment of the data. It and data processing that provides the full data set assessment... is compatible with and to all subsequent users and

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generates AGS data. Borehole logs, laboratory presentation plots, report tables and figures are all generated from their AGS data. From their perspective, the data is available and is used. It is what happens next that controls availability to others.

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smaller design companies are failing to pass on this data to subsequent users such as ground improvement specialists, piling contractors or their designers.

Can we improve this situation? And if so, how?

Scope of works Large Consulting Structural I would suggest that this and specifications and Civil Engineer issue is wrapped up in the organisations do recognise for ground much larger problem of the value of AGS data for investigations will inadequate and insufficient all sizes of project. Scope of include requirements ground investigation; much works and specifications for for the GI Contractors to more common and prevalent ground investigations will provide AGS digital data for the smaller projects, include requirements for the despite the increased risk GI Contractors to provide AGS together with their final to all parties. Education and digital data together with GI reports... warnings apparently have their final GI reports. They will not been working for this usually offer and provide the AGS sector. If it were, we would almost certainly be data to the Main and Specialist Contractors seeing across the board improvements within working on their projects. From their the site investigation industry. But I do not see viewpoint, ‘AGS data is working ‘. ‘Why worry this. about it ‘?

But are these viewpoints acceptable? Is this the universal experience with AGS data? I would suggest this is not the case.

Many organisations approximately follow the 80:20 rule. It is probable that 80% of geotechnical design in terms of value is being carried out by 20% of the Engineering Consultants, the larger companies already using and valuing AGS data. So, no problem here.

Conversely, the remaining 20% of geotechnical design is therefore being carried out by 80% of the Consultants and Architects, invariably much smaller companies carrying out smaller projects with lower value. But it is likely that much more geotechnical design [in terms of numbers of projects] is being carried out in this sector, albeit by [possibly] less informed and smaller design companies. It is these organisations that are failing to specify AGS data. Even when offered and available, the

Therefore we are not going to solve this problem by trying to inform and educate the smaller Engineering Consultants and Architects. What else can we try?

How about encouraging the GI contractors to provide AGS as a matter of course on all their projects? Without any request, and without arbitrary obstacles, particularly the legal argument; ‘it is not our data, it belongs to the Client ‘. Or, ‘you are not entitled to use or rely on this data, as you are not party to the contract ‘. But is there really any difference between a borehole log, or a test result, and the AGS digital data that is used to produce the log or test output table? If you have one, why cannot you have the other? I would argue there is no difference, and no reason.

So how do we do this?

One option would be a centralised database, perhaps controlled by the AGS? Or the British Geological Survey? But a nightmare to

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control. And critics would say, ‘access needs to be restricted to approved users only ‘, and we are back to where we started. Chasing down approval to obtain AGS digital data through a convoluted contractual chain.

More sensible would be to embed the AGS digital data into the GI report. This could be done in two ways, dependent on the form of the deliverable; for Acrobat PDF file versions of the GI report, the AGS data could be linked directly to the PDF file. For hardcopy versions, the AGS digital data could be attached as additional text pages to the rear of the GI report to allow scanning and OCR conversion to digital data.

Both options would allow users of the GI report to immediately access the AGS digital data.

Perceived problems For some reason, many specialist GI contractors and Consulting Engineers have a misplaced view that AGS digital data is different to the GI report itself. As a result, access has to be restricted unless the user can jump through convoluted hoops and be questioned about why they want the data, and why they believe they should have access. But as pointed out above; AGS digital data is used to generate borehole logs, laboratory presentation

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plots, report tables and figures. As such, the data could be reverse engineered from the GI report, but at vast expense and effort, with risk of error and transcription problems. But why?

In my view it is time the GI industry addressed this problem, added value to their reports and generally reduced the potential for waste and expense experienced by users of their data.

This article is the personal view of the author and does not represent official policy of the AGS. It has been written to stimulate discussion, particularly from the GI industry that is responsible for preparation and generation of most AGS digital data.

Chris Raison is the owner and one of the founder members of Raison Foster Associates, a Specialist Geotechnical Consulting company working for a range of Clients varying from Main Contractors, Specialist Piling/Ground Improvement Contractors, Civil and Structural Consulting Engineers.

Article contributed by Chris Raison Director Raison Foster Associates

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July / August 2018

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Q & A with...

Vivien Dent

BSc MSc CGeol FGS ASoBRA Controlled Waters Job Title: Associate Technical Director Company: RSK Brief Biography: In 1994, I obtained a 2:1 Honours degree in geology from RHBNC subsequently obtaining an MSc in Hydrogeology from the University of East Anglia.

My first job was working for Soil Mechanics as an assistant Geologist and then as a hydrogeologist at STATS. In 2008, STATS were bought by RSK, which is where I am to this day.

I am currently based in Boxworth where I am Team Leader. I get involved in a wide variety of geoenvironmental projects and I provide technical support to RSK’s geosciences teams on controlled waters and NAPL risk assessment and am the technical lead for sustainability in land condition.

I am also the current AGS Contaminated Land Working Group Leader.

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What or who inspired you to join the geotechnical industry?

conceptual site model is I have always loved geology always different, and each and from the age of 8 (when site has specific problems to my Grandfather gave me his address. I really like the varied fossil collection), I knew I nature of my work. wanted to be a What are geologist.

No 2 sites are

What does a typical day entail?

“ the same - the

conceptual site model is always different, and each site has specific problems to address.

I really like the varied nature of my work.

I don’t think there is such a thing as a typical day – which is partly why I like my job. I generally work 3 days in the office and one day at home.

One day I could be in the office managing staff, tendering and writing reports, another day I could be delivering training at another RSK office.

Are there any projects which you’re particularly proud to have been a part of?

I wouldn’t say there is a particular job I am proud to have been a part of. I find all my projects interesting. No 2 sites are the same - the

the most challenging aspects of your role?

The most challenging aspect of my role is juggling work life with having a family. RSK are very flexible allowing me to work part time and I work from both the office and from home. Now my children are getting older it is getting easier.

What AGS Working Groups are you a Member of and what are your current focuses?

I am a member and the current leader of the Contaminated Land Working Group. The group are working on a number of projects and my focus as Leader is to try and

Vivien presenting at a Chalk Groundwater conference

make sure that projects are progressed. Members do a lot of work in their own time and I’m always impressed with the effort that people put in.

What do you enjoy most about being an AGS Member?

The thing I enjoy most is meeting and getting to know new people from across the industry and the knowledge sharing.

What do you find beneficial about being an AGS Member?

The most beneficial thing is the knowledge sharing and knowing that everyone in the

group wants to promote best practice and raise quality in the industry.forward.

industry?

The geotechnical industry is still very male dominated!

Why do you feel the AGS I don’t believe that women is important should be recruited to the just to get The AGS is industry? the gender important to balance right The AGS is industry as we – they should important can promote best be recruited to industry on merit. practice. It gives as we can people / the industry There are more promote best women in the practice. It a voice where there industry now gives people / is uncertainty. than there the industry a were 20 years voice where there ago and a lot more is done now is uncertainty. in schools to show girls what career opportunities there are What changes would you like to see implemented in – but I think there is still a long way to go. the geotechnical

“

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AGS Guide to...

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH FOR CONTAMINATED LAND INVESTIGATIONS

C

ontaminated land investigations can pose risks to health as soil, groundwater and soil gas/vapour can include substances hazardous to health. A desk study can give an indication of potential hazardous substances. A risk assessment is required to identify the control measures to prevent and control exposure. Such measures include limiting exposure through appropriate hygiene, welfare, dust control and training as well as PPE and RPE.

(ref: AGS Client’s Guide to Desk Study). The desk study should also form part of the PreConstruction Information required under CDM Regulations. Health hazards associated with these contaminants would be used to inform a risk assessment for the investigation activities. Note: desk study information may be incomplete and should be treated as a guide only. The client may need to commission further surveys / investigations or make allowances for others to complete.

Introduction

Control of risks from asbestos and radiation are outside the scope of this guidance (see separate AGS and CL:AIRE guidance for asbestos – Ref. 9 and 10). As you are likely to come across asbestos in the soil you should have asbestos awareness training as a minimum. Further training is required if you are likely to disturb the asbestos.

“

As you are likely to come across asbestos in the soil you should have asbestos awareness training as a minimum.

This guidance covers occupational health issues for the intrusive investigation of contaminated sites.

Prior to any investigation, a desk study should be completed to identify potential contaminants associated with historical and current activities on the land

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Health Hazards

“

If exposure to a hazardous substance is not properly controlled it may cause ill health...

Those involved in contaminated land investigations can be exposed to a variety of substances (e.g. chemicals, fumes, vapours, dusts, fibres) which can, under some circumstances, have a harmful effect on their health. These are called ‘hazardous substances’. If exposure to a hazardous substance is not properly controlled it may cause ill health as a result of:

hazardous substances must be prevented or controlled. Control is defined as adequate only if a) the principles of good practice are applied, b) any workplace exposure limit (WEL) is not exceeded and c) exposure to asthmagens, carcinogens and mutagens are reduced as low as is reasonably practicable. EH40 (reference in full below) provides WELs (limits set to help protect workers) for substances in air.

•

too much being taken into the body through breathing;

Control of exposure to hazardous substances can include a number of actions such as:

•

being absorbed through the skin;

•

•

being swallowed; or

Training and advice on the potential hazards.

•

acting directly on the body at the point of contact, e.g. the skin

•

Use of welfare facilities (see separate AGS guidance).

•

Use of decontamination facilities and a boot wash.

The following hazards may be encountered: •

Chemical hazards either as solid, liquid or gas/ vapour including toxic, corrosive, carcinogenic.

•

Biological hazards, including pathogens, bacteria, viruses and fungi (e.g. hepatitis, anthrax, Weil’s disease).

“

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide information on how a substance can harm a human body as well as how to limit exposure and emergency measures in case of an accident.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide information on how a substance can harm a human body as well as how to limit exposure and emergency measures in case of an accident. The type of ill health that can arise includes dermatitis, skin cancers and respiratory diseases.

• Avoid smoking, drinking or eating on site, except in designated areas and after following decontamination thoroughly.

• Always clean your boots and remove overalls and place in a bag prior to leaving site. Do not drive in dirty boots or overalls to avoid inhalation of contaminated dust. Avoid tracking back mud into site cabins.

•

Ensure that any breaks in the skin (i.e. cuts, sores and scratches) are covered with waterproof plasters.

•

Avoid smelling samples, placing samples

Limiting Exposure Under the COSHH Regulations exposure to

• High hygiene standards including washing hands before using the toilet or eating.

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near your mouth and touching your face and mouth area whilst wearing soiled gloves. Clean sample containers prior to shipping.

•

•

Coveralls should normally be worn over boots rather than be tucked in. Gloves should normally be worn over the sleeves to help stop contamination getting on the inside of the PPE. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for removal of coveralls.

Where possible, stand upwind of excavations to avoid dust and gases blowing towards you.

•

Control of dust to limit potential for inhalation of dust particles (wheel wash, mist sprays at loading/unloading bays, sheeting lorries etc.)

•

Eye and face protection: chemical splash goggles or face visors may be required depending upon the activity and nature of substances expected.

RPE: The type of RPE required to control exposure to substances in the air should be Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) based on: the work activity, environment, and Respiratory Protective Equipment time of exposure and the substances.

(RPE) The Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives, working with HSE, has developed PPE/RPE should always be a last resort. The an RPE selector tool: http://www. selection of PPE/RPE should healthyworkinglives.com/rpereflect the substances likely PPE/RPE should selector. to be encountered. Only use CE marked PPE and provide training in its use and maintenance.

•

•

“ always be a last

Gloves should meet the European Standard EN374-3. Glove manufacturers provide information on the chemical resistance of each glove (breakthrough times, permeation and degradation). This helps to identify a suitable glove for the substances as well as the length of time they can be used for. Some people can develop an allergy to gloves made of natural rubber latex so use non-latex gloves where possible. Advice on how to remove gloves is provided at: http://www.hse.gov.uk/skin/ professional/posters.htm.

Coveralls: The coverall material should be resistant to the penetration of hazardous substances. Types of coverall vary from Type 5/6 (lowest protection described as particle-tight and spray-tight for limited exposure) to Type 1 (highest protection).

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There are respirators (filtered devices) and breathing apparatus (needs a supply of breathing-quality air from an independent source) both of which can be tight or loose fitting. If wearing tight fitting RPE, it should have been face fit tested and your face should be clean shaven.

For respirators, a filter that is protective of the harmful substances is required. Follow manufacturer’s guidance on filter life.

resort. The selection of PPE/RPE should reflect the substances likely to be encountered.

A trigger concentration can be set, above which RPE is required. Often on contaminated land sites the exact nature and concentration of the substances present is not known. Therefore, it is important that the concentration in air and suitability of RPE and filter is checked by monitoring concentrations in the working atmosphere using for example draeger tubes (giving instant reading) supported by laboratory analysis of grab samples (on short turnaround times). A conservative approach should be taken.

Control of Lead The Control of Lead at Work Regulations require exposure to lead to be either prevented or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled.

Exposure to lead is defined as ‘significant’ if one of the following three conditions is satisfied:

“

References The Control of 1. The Control of Substances Lead at Work Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations require Regulations 2002 2. EH40/2005 Workplace exposure to lead to exposure limits Containing the list be either prevented of workplace exposure limits for use with the Control of Substances or, where this is not Hazardous to Health Regulations reasonably practicable, 2002 (as amended), 2011 The selection, use and adequately controlled. 3. maintenance of respiratory

(a) exposure exceeds half the occupational exposure limit for lead; or (b) there is a substantial risk of the employee ingesting lead; or (c) if there is a risk of skin coming into contact with lead alkyls or any other substance containing lead in a form which can also be absorbed through the skin.

If exposure is liable to be ‘significant’, all the regulations will apply, in particular the need to: (a) wear protective clothing; (b) monitor lead-in-air concentrations; and (c) undertake medical surveillance (blood-lead and/or urinary lead concentration)

protective equipment: A practical guide HSG53 (second edition) 4.

Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002.

Approved Code of Practice and guidance L132 (Third Ed.) 5.

British Drilling Association (2008) Guidelines for safe intrusive activities on contaminated or potentially contaminated land (under review) 6.

Protection of Workers and the General Public During Development of Contaminated Land, HSG66, 1991 7.

BS 7184:2001 Selection, use and maintenance of chemical protective clothing — Guidance 8.

Anthrax, Safe working and the prevention of infection, HSG174, 1997 9.

AGS Site Investigation Asbestos Risk Assessment ver 2.4 (Feb 2013) (under review) 10.

JIWG / CL:AIRE Interpretation for Managing and working with Asbestos in Soil and Construction and Demolition Materials, 2016 Although every effort has been made to check the accuracy of the information and validity of the guidance given in this document, neither the members of the Safety Working Group, nor the AGS accept any responsibility for mis-statements contained herein or misunderstanding arising herefrom.

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AGS Working Group Focus

Senate Overview Neil Parry, the AGS Chair has provided an update on the items discussed.

The Senate, which meets four times a year, is made up of the current Officers, Working Group Leaders and elected representatives of the AGS. The duties of the Senate are to represent the entire membership of the AGS throughout the wider industry and to ensure that the AGS fulfils its purpose, including its legal and financial obligations.

The Senate arranges the appointment of AGS representatives and approves various items of business (such as the Business Plan and proposed expenditure).

The Senate meeting held on 28th June 2018 in London followed a standard format to deal with AGS business and

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A significant number of items are discussed in Senate. During this meeting the topics included:

“

Each of the Working Groups presented their reports to the Senate Members for comment. This ensures each of the groups can work together on various issues...

• The success of Members’ Day and the decision to hold next year’s meeting at the same venue.

• The planning of this year’s Ground Risk Conference on 12th September.

• The sending of a joint letter with the BDS to the President of the ICE regarding the shortage of Reservoir Panel Engineers.

Each of the Working Groups presented their reports to the Senate Members for comment.

This ensures each of the groups can work together on various issues and prevents duplication. It is important

that the groups provide a useful service to the AGS membership and their output is subject to the correct level of scrutiny.

Other items covered in the Senate meeting, which are usually on the agenda, included the Chairman’s Report, Financial Review, Membership, Meetings Programme, Strategy, forthcoming/ new AGS Guides (such as the recently published AGS Guide to The Selection of Geotechnical Soil Laboratory Testing), representation on BSI and working together with other organisations.

Election to the AGS Senate, in addition to the Officers and Working Group Leaders is open to Practitioners, Affiliates, Graduate Members and Student Members. Voting is held for a number of these posts each year at the Annual General Meeting.

Laboratories Overview unsuitable sample containers or sampling conditions. The UKAS requirement to report such samples as deviating has decreased the number of unsuitable samples submitted for analysis. The Laboratories Working Group are looking to contribute with a short article in the AGS Magazine on this topic.

The third AGS Laboratories Working Group meeting of 2018 took place on 12th July 2018 at Geotechnica and the Laboratories Leader, Dimitris Xirouchakis of Structural Soils, has provided an update on the top three current issues the Laboratories Working Group are discussing.

1. Educating clients about geotechnical testing requirements, primarily, and less so about geoenvironmental testing This issue impacts on testing quality and consequently, data quality. For instance, it was mentioned in the last meeting that geoenvironmental laboratories used to have many problems with

members and non-members, especially university graduates and junior practitioners, by publishing guides and asking members to give presentations to universities or public forums. The AGS should continue to press for laboratory accreditation and high data quality.

2. Data quality at large; 3. Keeping members participation updated on Laboratory in standard accreditation is Proficiency development Testing and important as is the The AGS will training of requirement for the continue to technicians

“

labs to produce highquality data...

Clearly, samples that do not conform to testing standards are responsible for project delays, may yield lowquality results, and may create legal problems in the future.

Laboratory accreditation is important as is the requirement for the labs to produce highquality data, consistently.

Participation in proficiency testing ensures that the laboratories perform testing under statistically controlled conditions.

keep Members updated on standard

development.

IThe Laboratories Working Group are looking to increase participation, as many AGS Members have laboratories, these companies are encouraged to join the Laboratories Working Group.

If you wish to attend AGS Laboratories Working Group meetings, please contact the AGS Secretariat by emailing ags@ags.org.uk.

AGS should continue educating

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Standards Update

STANDARD BS 1377-3: 2018 BS EN ISO 14688-1: 2018 BS EN ISO 14688-2: 2018 BS EN ISO 14689: 2018 BS EN ISO 17892-7: 2018 BS EN ISO 17892-8: 2018 BS EN ISO 17892-9:2018 STANDARD BS EN ISO DIS 15175 (REVISION) BS ISO 15176 (REVISION) BS ISO 15799 (REVISION) ISO 15800 (REVISION) ISO 16133 BS ISO DIS 7924 BS ISO 18512 BS ISO 18400-104 BS ISO 18400-202 ISO 18400 - 203 BS ISO 18400-205 BS EN ISO 19258 (REVISION) ISO 21365 BS EN ISO 25177 (REVISION)

July 2018

RECENTLY PUBLIS SUBJECT / TEST SU Methods of test for soils for civil engineering purposes – Part3: Chemical BS and electrochemical testing Geotechnical investigation and testing – Identification and classification BS of soil – Identification and description Geotechnical investigation and testing – Identification and classification BS of soil – Principles for a classification Geotechnical investigation and testing – Identification, description and BS classifica-tion of rock UCS test BS UU triaxial test BS CID, CIU and CAU tests BS ISO STANDARDS ON SOIL & SITE SUBJECT / TEST SU Soil & groundwater protection BS Re-use of excavated soil and soil materials Ecotoxicological characterization of soil & soil materials Human exposure

BS BS ISO

Design of monitoring programmes [for soil quality] Bioavailability of metals in soil to humans Guidance on long & short-term storage of samples Soil quality – Sampling - Strategies Soil quality – sampling – Preliminary Investigations Soil quality – sampling – Potentially contaminated sites Soil quality – sampling – natural sites etc.

Determination of background values

BS BS BS BS Ne ISO ISO BS

Conceptual site models for potentially contaminated sites Soil quality – Field Soil Description

Ne BS

STANDARD BS EN ISO 17892-10 BS EN ISO 17892-11

TEST Shear-box and ring-shear Permeability tests

BS EN ISO 17892-12

Plasticity Index tests

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GEOTECHNICAL LABORATORY TEST SU BS BS Cla BS

SHED STANDARDS UPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE S 1377-3: 1990

STATUS Approved for publication June 2018

PUBLICATION DATE 2018

S EN ISO 14688-1:2002

Published

March 2018

S EN ISO 14688-2: 2004

Published

March 2018

S EN ISO 14689-1: 2003

Published

March 2018

S1377-7, Clause 5 S1377-7, Clause 7 S1377-8 (replaced in its entirety) E ASSESSMENT - In preparation UPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE S EN ISO 15175:2011 (ISO 2004)

Published Published Published

March 2018 April 2018 April 2018

STATUS Final Draft International Standard (FDIS) in preparation Proceeding to publication DIS – commenting completed end of 2017 DIS issued February 2018 - Comments to be discussed September 2018 DIS proceeding to FDIS FDIS issued for comment June 2018 May be revised – decision pending.

FDIS issued 5 Juiy 2018 FDIS issued 5 Juiy 2018 FDIS issued 5 Juiy 2018 FDIS issued June 2018 FDIS issued May 2018

PUBLICATION DATE 2018

S ISO 15176:2002 S ISO 15799:2003 O 15800:2003

S EN ISO 16133:2011 S DD ISO TS 17924:2008 S ISO 18512:2007 S ISO 10381:2002 ew standard O 10381-5:2005 O 10381-4:2003 S EN ISO 19258:2011 (ISO 2005)

ew Standard S EN ISO 25177: 2011

DIS in preparation June 2018 DIS - requires extensive revision before FDIS can be issued TING BS EN ISO 17892 - In preparation STATUS UPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE S1377-7, Clauses 4, 5 and 6 Parallel Enquiry Launched S1377-5, Clause 5 and BS1377-6, Parallel Enquiry Launched ause 5 S1377-2, Clauses 4 and 5 Preparing for Final vote

2018 2018 2019 2019 2018 2020 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2020 2020

PUBLICATION DATE

Late 2018

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Upcoming Events Ground Risk: Why Take the Chance? A Lessons Learnt Conference Date: Wednesday 12th September Location: Cavendish Conference Centre, London We’re pleased to announce an *EARLY BIRD OFFER* of over 22% off the ticket price for Ground Risk: Why Take the Chance? A Lessons Learnt Conference, until Tuesday 31st July.

This full day, CPD conference organised by the AGS, will provide a focus on how ground risk can be identified, quantified, and measured for the whole project team using cutting edge technology allied with professional experience. It’ll also look at specific areas where we can improve the quality of contaminated land assessment and the risk associated with getting it wrong.

Ground Risk: Why Take the Chance? is aimed at attendees involved in construction projects from concept and planning through to implementation and not solely for geotechnical engineering specialists to help drive a change in the way ground risk is considered in the UK and beyond.

Speakers for the event include Stephen Tromans, who is recognised as one of the leading practitioners in Environmental Law in the UK, award-winning geologist, Jacqueline Skipper, Dr Andrew Smith, Coffey and Brownfield Briefing/GE Award winner, George Flower of Arcadis.

Register before Tuesday 31st July to receive over 22% off the advertised ticket price! AGS Members may attend for £109 (reduced from £140) whereas non AGS Members’ may attend from £179 (reduced from £210). Prices exclude VAT. Please note this offer is only available until 31st July and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Full price points will come into effect from 1st August. Event registration closes on Tuesday 4th September.

For full information on the event, sponsorship and registration forms, please email ags@ags.org.uk

Engineering in Chalk Conference The British Geotechnical Association (BGA) with support from the Engineering Group of the Geological Society (EGGS) will be hosting a major two-day international conference on Engineering in Chalk on 17th and 18th September 2018 at Imperial College in London.

The conference aims to bring together the knowledge and experience of industry and academia by presenting research and case histories to provide a definitive up to date perspective on engineering in Chalk.

Visit the event website for more information. To register for tickets, please click here.

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CIRIA Information management for SI - how can we do better?

This lunch time webinar will explore how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and other information management tools could improve data generated from site investigation.

Background Managing risks in the ground is an important aspect of construction projects. Many sites may have contamination and other ground hazards such historic mining features, fault lines, etc. An effective site investigation can help minimise the risk of encountering “unforeseen” ground conditions and improve the viability of the entire project.

Site investigation could generate lots of information about the ground. However it can be like ‘peering at a painting through pinholes’ Each one gives only limited detail. It is how these details are pieced together that counts when building a complete picture of the ground.

Are there any ways that we could manage date better? Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a process that manages all information of a construction project during its life cycle. It allows lot of information to be compiled, creating a 3D digital description of the site. This has used in many aspects of a construction project but not on-site investigation.

This webinar will: •

Explore problems with data management for site investigation

•

Examine new approaches

•

Discuss how BIM could be applied in site investigation

•

Look at the advantages and limitations

•

Consider other things to look out of

Date: 06 September 2018 Time: 12:45 - 14:15 Cost Free to CIRIA, LACL and BRMF members (until 10 August 2018) £35+VAT for all others including CIRIA members and LACL and BRMF after 10 August To book onto this webinar, please contact CIRIA on 020 7549 3300 or email enquiries@ciria.org.

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Training Courses

Asbestos from Soil Training Did you know that CIRIA now offers both open and in-house training on asbestos from soil awareness and for non-licensed work for asbestos in the ground?

For further information visit www.ciria.org

Asbestos Awareness & Non Licensable Work Training CL:AIRE is currently delivering in house CAR-SOIL, Asbestos Awareness & Non Licensable Work training for groundworkers for those companies that wish to upskill their work force in working with asbestos in soil, construction and demolition materials in a cost effective way. In addition, for those who may only have a small number of staff who need training, do get in touch and CL:AIRE would be happy to try and bring companies together to make the training more cost effective by providing training in your region.

If this is of interest, please enquire through the CL:AIRE Help desk and specify which course you are interested in, the location and any specific requirements you have: https://www.claire.co.uk/ help-desk

Revised Training: Specialist Geotechnical Heath and Safety Courses Equipe Training and their health and safety training partners RPA Safety Services are delighted to announce their collection of specialist IOSH health and safety courses for the geotechnical market have been revised and renewed for 2018.

These courses are approved and certified by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and meet the requirements of UK Health and Safety regulations for working on geotechnical and land drilling sites. Upcoming courses include: • 5th - 7th September 2018 - IOSH Safe Supervision of Geotechnical Sites • 4th October 2018 - IOSH Working Safely (on Geotechnical Sites) • 31st August 2018 - IOSH Avoiding Danger from Underground Services Places on these courses can be booked online here, or via contacting Equipe on +44 (0)1295 670990 or info@equipegroup.com 32

Magazine

How to become a Member of the AGS

AGS Members all share a commitment to quality in the geotechnical and geoenvironmental industry. This has become widely recognised by clients, governmental bodies and other associations that touch issues to do with the ground.

We welcome both companies and individuals who want to be recognised for their quality of practice to join our growing membership of over 130 Members. We shape our industry, continually improve practice and collaborate on issues that affect us all; from clients, all the way through to the people who use the land and the buildings we help develop.

To become a Member of the AGS, please visit http://www.ags.org.uk/about/become-a-member and submit your application online. Please note that all membership applications are reviewed by the Membership Committee 6 weeks in advance of each quarterly Senate meeting.

The deadline for the next round of completed applications is 14th August 2018.

AGS Chemical and Legal Helplines All Members of the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists are entitled to free chemical and contractual advice through the use of Loss Prevention Committee Members, Marquis & Lord and BLM Solicitors.

For advice on chemical safety and best practice, Marquis & Lord will provide 30 minutes of free advice to all AGS Members.

Additionally, if you’re an AGS Member and are looking for legal advice, please speak to Michael Salau, Guy Lane or Zita Mansi at BLM Solicitors where the first 15 minutes of legal advice will be free of charge.

CHEMICAL SAFETY HELPLINE

LEGAL HELPLINE

Marquis & Lord Tel: 0800 083 4610 www.marquisandlord.com

BLM Solicitors Telephone: 020 7638 2811 www.blmlaw.com

Disclaimer The articles included in this magazine are the opinions of the authors and are not intended to be a complete or comprehensive statement of the law, nor do they constitute legal or specialist advice.

They are intended only to highlight current issues from date of publication that may be of interest.

Neither the writer, nor the AGS, assumes any responsibility for any loss that may arise from accessing, or reliance on the material and all liability is disclaimed accordingly. Professional advice should be taken before applying the content of the articles to particular circumstances.

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Advertising and Rates An online advertising campaign within the AGS Magazine will help to build and increase industry awareness of your company’s profile, initiatives and offerings.

The AGS can help build a package to suit your needs and budget; whether it’s a series of adverts across multiple issues, a combination of event sponsorship and advertising, or a single advertorial.

How to Advertise in the AGS Magazine The AGS Magazine is a free email publication which looks at a range of topical issues, insights and concerns, whilst publishing new guidance notes, working group activities and information on upcoming industry seminars.

With 6 issues each year, our subscribers include industry professionals such as practitioners, chartered specialists, senior decision makers and managing directors.

To receive a media pack or to discuss advertising rates, please contact Caroline Kratz on 0208 658 8212 or email ags@ags.org.uk

Adversiting Requirements

Advert Sizes and Rates

All adverts should be sent in a PDF, PNG, JPEG, TIFF, PSD (Photoshop) or EPS (Illustrator) format.

 FULL PAGE W: 210mm H: 297mm RATE: £400  HALF PAGE W: 210mm H: 145mm RATE: £250  QUARTER PAGE

company name address contact number email

W: 105mm H: 145mm RATE: £160

logo

 DIRECTORY Company name, address, contact number, email and one logo.

RATE: £50

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All advertising artwork must be supplied in 114 dpi resolution.

Magazine

Artwork must be delivered to the AGS using the agreed artwork specification size listed left.

Artwork should be emailed to ags@ags.org. uk no later than 10 days prior to publication.

Directory i2 Analytical Ltd 7 Woodshots Meadow, Croxley Park, Watford, Herts, WD18 8YS  +44 (0)1923 225 404  reception@i2analytical.com

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST £50

AGS Dates for Your Diary

Upcoming AGS Events AGS Ground Risk Conference London’s Cavendish Conference Centre Wednesday 12th September 2018 For more information, contact ags@ags.org.uk

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