AGS Magazine - March/April 2019

March / April 2019

DATA, TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING GEOLOGY What does the future hold for the ever-developing technology that is increasingly prevalent in the UK GI Industry?

Photo credit: Dr Tim Rogers

RECENT CHANGES TO LANDFILL TAX

SILC, SQP AND NQMS UPDATE SPRING 2019

COMMERCIAL RISKS AND HOW TO MANAGE THEM

Implications and potential liabilities and how they impact AGS Members

An update on registered SiLC numbers from Roger Clark of Marlowclark Consulting

A half day seminar presented by the AGS Loss Prevention Working Group

ABOUT THE AGS

Chair’s Foreword As I am writing this the final preparations for the Annual Conference on Wednesday 3rd April are being completed and some of you reading this will have attended. I am forever grateful for the hard work of our secretariat and the generosity of our sponsors which help to make our yearly get-together so enjoyable.

Each one that I have attended as an AGS member has had a particular high point, whether it is the people I have met or the interesting presentations. It has been an honour to attend as Chair of the AGS over the last two years, although I am looking forward to sitting within the audience in 2020.

to read and more up to date.

This year there will be two new AGS events which are detailed in this issue. A halfday seminar on commercial risks will be held in London in July and a full day safety conference in Birmingham in November. These have been organised by the Loss Prevention and Safety Working Groups, whose active members have produced a multitude of guidance. An overview of the safety conference is given by Adam Latimer, Leader of the AGS Safety Working Group.

This month’s magazine highlights the implications of recent changes to landfill tax for AGS members, the future of This is my final magazine data in ground engineering, an foreword as Chair, having update on SiLC, SQP and NQMS overseen the publication of and a Q&A session with AGS eight previous issues. I am stalwart Jim Cook. The current happy that over the last 18 issue reflects the changes months we have generally achieved our aim of delivering noted above with fewer articles a topical and informative online and more frequent publications. magazine. We have received We would be interested in your some excellent feedback from feedback on the magazine our readers and as a result of and our future plans. Please this will be making some minor contact ags@ags.org.uk if you changes in the future. This will have any comments. most notably be to increase the number of magazines published in the year whilst reducing the number of pages.

Neil Parry The total content that we AGS Chair produce will increase, whilst making each publication easier 2

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

Inside this month’s issue

Photo credit: Dr Tim Rogers

FEATURE PAGE 10



Recent changes to Landfill Tax

Geoffrey Perrett of BuroHappold Engineering and Andy O’Dea of WSP discuss the implications and potential COVER STORY liabilities of the recent changes to Landfill Tax for AGS PAGE 14  members.

What does the future hold The HMRC Excise Notice LFT1 is primarily for for the ever-developing operators of landfill sites, but is also relevant to technology that is waste producers and others involved in the increasingly prevalent in waste management industry. the UK GI Industry?

SILC, SQP AND NQMS UPDATE SPRING 2019 PAGE 20  Photo credit: Rachael Bell

An update on registered SiLC numbers from Roger Clark of Marlowclark Consulting

WORKING GROUP FOCUS: SAFETY UPDATE PAGE 24  Adam Latimer of Ian Farmer Associates provides an update on the latest Safety Working Group meeting.

Q & A: JIM COOK PAGE 26  The AGS Magazine conducts a Q & A with Geotechnical Services Bureau Ltd’s Jim Cook.

MORE INSIDE

PAGE 4-7 

News in Short: AGS Safety Conference

PAGE 8



Commercial Risks Seminar Lineup confirmed

PAGE 32 

Upcoming Events Geotechnica 2019 Update

March / April 2019

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News in Short AGS Safety Conference: Save the Date The AGS are pleased to announce that a conference based on health and safety within the geotechnical and geoenvironmental industry, will take place on Thursday 21st November at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham.

This full day event will focus on topics of interest such as an occupational health, mental health, the challenges of an HSE investigation and the dangers associated in working around pipelines.

There will also be two break-out workshops to allow delegates to participate in more intimate round-table discussions.

Tickets will be priced at £145 for AGS Members and £215 for Non-Members, and will include catering and refreshments Prices exclude VAT.

LANYARD SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE* (AGS Member Rate: £900 / Non-Member Rate: £1,080) • • • •

• • • • •

Company logo on each attending delegates lanyard Full page advert in AGS Magazine** Entry for three delegates into the event A designated area to exhibit company initiatives, research and software. This exhibition space can also showcase marketing materials, literature and banners Company logo on the event PowerPoint presentation holding slide Company logo and overview on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS’ LinkedIn page

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CATERING SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE* (AGS Member Rate: £900 / Non-Member Rate: £1,080) • • • • •

• • • • •

Company logo across the catering area Company logo on catering napkins Full page advert in AGS Magazine** Entry for three delegates into the event A designated area to exhibit company initiatives, research and software. This exhibition space can also showcase marketing materials, literature and banners Company logo on the event PowerPoint presentation holding slide Company logo, overview and URL on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS LinkedIn page

GOLD SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £545/ Non-Member Rate: £654) • •

• • • • •

Entry for two delegates into the event A designated area to exhibit company initiatives, research and software. This exhibition space can also showcase marketing materials, literature and banners Company logo on the event PowerPoint presentation holding slide Company logo and overview on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Announcement of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page Announcement of your company’s involvement on the AGS’ LinkedIn page

Full details including speakers and ticket prices will be released in due course. For information on the sponsorship packages available or to

SILVER SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £395/ Non-Member Rate: £474) • • • • •

Entry for one delegate into the event Company logo on event PowerPoint Presentation holding slide Company logo on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Announcement of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page

All prices exclude VAT. *one package available **terms and conditions apply

register your interest, please contact Joanna Franaszczuk on 0208 658 8212 or email ags@ ags.org.uk

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The top three AGS publications for March 2019 1. AGS Guidance on Waste Classification for Soils - A Practitioners Guide 2. AGS Guide to Environmental Sampling 3. Guidance on the Risk of Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) To download the publications for free; click here.

Photo credit: Amy Khan, Lustre Consulting

BS 8485: 2015+A1: 2019 In response to comments from industry, the working group for BS8485 have updated and released the following which can now be ordered or downloaded from BSI. Please note that this is a technical reference, can be normative and the most current version should be that cited in reports.

BS 8485:2015+A1:2019 Code of practice for the design of protective measures for methane and carbon dioxide ground gases for

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new buildings describes how to characterise sites and prevent the entry of toxic, asphyxiating or explosive ground gases. This 2019 amendment changes and clarifies: • The minimum gas protection points required for Buildings Type B, C and D on High and Very High gas hazard sites.

• The assignment of gas protection points for the structural barrier for basements.

• The criteria for

•

membranes that can be assigned 2 gas protection points when used as a gas resistant membrane.

The membrane thickness test method applicable to the guidance in the code of practice.

Other industry guidance exists but none provides the same clarity on remedial solution selection.

This standard also helps you comply with Building Regulations Approved Document C: Site preparation and resistance to contaminants and moisture.

Association of Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Specialists

AGS ASSISTANCE AND HELPLINES Here to help you CHEMICAL SAFETY HELPLINE

LEGAL HELPLINE

Any uncertainty when it comes to the law can be a cause for concern.

Beale & Co is a commercial law firm with a long history of acting for consultants and contractors, with specialist experience in the construction, engineering and infrastructure sectors, both in the UK and internationally.

Beale & Co is pleased to provide AGS members with guidance in respect of issues arising in connection with their practice, including in relation to: • Appointments and collateral warranties • Assignment and novation • Non-payment • Disputes • Intellectual property rights • IT • Employment • Corporate and commercial matters Beale & Co will provide 15 minutes of free advice to all AGS members.

They can be contacted on +44 (0) 20 7469 0400 (please quote “AGS Helpline”).

The chemical safety helpline aims to provide AGS members with a quick line of assistance on what to do next with matters relating to chemical safety for people involved in planning, taking and shipping of samples on contaminated sites.

PRE-ATTENDANCE ON SITE A friendly phone link to assist with the worker protection risk assessments. On some sites the normal ‘boiler plate’ document, that has been adopted but not edited, may not be good enough.

Help can be provided when planning sampling exercises when the desk study for the site discloses material safety data sheets for known contaminates. Often when substances are flagged like this they have been problematic on the site.

Sometimes the limited information can be less than helpful when trying to prepare risk assessments, especially with older documentation. The helpline can help you use this information for risk assessments and choice of PPE. ON SITE Help can be provided when unfamiliar odours are encountered. This will take the form of guidance on what not to do, and what should be done.

Sometimes site staff suffer symptoms of irritation to skin and eyes or respiratory distress. Often a friendly voice on the end of the phone can help you focus on what to do and how to regain control of the job.

Marquis & Lord will provide 30 minutes of free advice to all AGS members and can be contacted on 0800 083 4610.

OTHER ASSISTANCE If you have any queries regarding AGS Data Format, there is a discussion forum on the AGS Data Format website, where queries can be posted and answered by the Data Format team.

For all other queries, please email ags@ags.org.uk, we will then forward your email to the relevant AGS Working Group.

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Commercial Risks and How to Manage Them A half day seminar presented by the AGS Loss Prevention Working Group This half day seminar organised by the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists will provide a focus on the management of commercial risks.

Taking place on the afternoon of Wednesday 3rd July at 1 Moorgate Place in London, this SEMINAR CONTENT REGISTRATION: 12:30 WELCOME ADDRESS AND INTRODUCTION Jo Strange, Technical Director CGL LIABILITIES ASSOCIATED WITH RELIANCE AND COLLATERAL WARRANTIES Zita Mansi, Senior Associate at Beale & Company THE IMPORTANCE OF DEFINITIONS WHEN AGREEING SCOPES AND OBJECTIVES Hugh Mallett, Technical Director at BuroHappold Engineering.

PROFESSIONAL INDEMNITY INSURANCE – PROTECTION FOR THE INSURED OR THE CLIENT’S “GET OUT OF JAIL-FREE” CARD Speaker TBC 8

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CPD conference is aimed at both junior and experienced ground engineers, who are interested in improving their knowledge and skills within this sector. The event will also be relevant to practitioners approaching Chartership, as well as those in smaller practices where there may be limited or no inhouse legally qualified sources of help or advice.

Chaired by Jo Strange, Technical Director at CGL, attending delegates will be provided with an introduction of the guidance and advice provided by the AGS Loss Prevention Working Group, with particular attention being given to recent hot topics.

THE BATTLE OF THE FORMS - A FOCUS ON CONTRACT FORMATION AND PURCHASE ORDERS Dr Russell Jones, Principle at Golder Associates UK WHEN IS A “SUPERVISOR” NOT PROVIDING SUPERVISION? Speaker TBC FITNESS FOR PURPOSE OR REASONABLE SKILL AND CARE Rachel Griffiths, Contracts Manager at Fugro POTENTIAL LIABILITIES FOR LANDFILL TAX Jonathan Atkinson, Technical Specialist at the Environment Agency

LANYARD SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE* (AGS Member Rate: £500 / Non-Member Rate: £750) • • • •

• • • • •

Company logo on each attending delegates lanyard Full page advert in AGS Magazine** Entry for three delegates into the event A designated area to exhibit company initiatives, research and software. This exhibition space can also showcase marketing materials, literature and banners Company logo on the event PowerPoint presentation holding slide Company logo and overview on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS’ LinkedIn page

CATERING SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE* (AGS Member Rate: £500 / Non-Member Rate: £750) • • • • •

• • • • •

GOLD SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £375/ Non-Member Rate: £560) • •

• • • • •

Entry for two delegates into the event A designated area to exhibit company initiatives, research and software. This exhibition space can also showcase marketing materials, literature and banners Company logo on the event PowerPoint presentation holding slide Company logo and overview on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Announcement of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page Announcement of your company’s involvement on the AGS’ LinkedIn page

TICKET PRICES AGS members may attend for £70, whereas non-AGS Members may attend for £130. Prices exclude VAT. Event registration closes on Monday 24th June.

Company logo across the catering area Company logo on catering napkins Full page advert in AGS Magazine** Entry for three delegates into the event A designated area to exhibit company initiatives, research and software. This exhibition space can also showcase marketing materials, literature and banners Company logo on the event PowerPoint presentation holding slide Company logo, overview and URL on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page Two announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS LinkedIn page SILVER SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £250 / Non-Member Rate: £375)

• • • • •

Entry for one delegate into the event Company logo on event PowerPoint Presentation holding slide Company logo on the event programme Company overview on the AGS website Announcement of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page

All prices exclude VAT. *one package available **terms and conditions apply ***limited packages available

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

March / April 2019

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Recent changes to Landfi

Implications and potential liabilities for A

T

he HMRC Excise Notice LFT1 (‘LFT1’ or ‘notice’) deals with requirements under Landfill Tax legislation. The notice is primarily for operators of landfill sites, but is also relevant to waste producers and others involved in the waste management industry.

The notice applies to England and Northern Ireland and is usually updated annually, generally to report the annual rise in the rates of landfill tax.

Background The April 2018 version replaced the 2017

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version and contained a new clause with potential implications for several parties, including AGS members. It should be noted that the April 2018 version has subsequently been replaced by LFT1: November 2018, which contained further minor updates including the annual rise in the rates of landfill tax. This advice note focusses predominantly on the changes introduced in the April 2018 version but accurately reflects the increases in landfill tax rates introduced in the November 2018 version.

are still on site from the 1st April 2018. An unauthorised site is any site, or area of land, that should have authorisation (a Permit or Licence) from either the Environment Agency or the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, but does not.

fill Tax

AGS members

Section 24.4 of the notice states that the following people may be jointly and severally liable for the tax: •

The person who makes the disposal

•

Any person who knowingly causes or knowingly facilitates the disposal to be made

When determining the persons who may have knowingly causes or knowingly permitted the disposal to be made, the following persons may be considered, but not limited to: •

The waste broker or dealer involved with the disposal

•

The waste haulier involved in the transport of the waste to the unauthorised site

•

The landowner

•

The waste producer

•

Any company officer

Slightly different legislation applies in England and Wales. In England, the landfill April 2018 update tax for unauthorised deposits is applied at the standard The April 2018 Section 24 of the LFT1 (a rate, which is currently new clause added in 2018) version replaced £88.95/tonne (£91.35 from presented amendments to the 2017 version and 1 April 2019). However, in the definition of a taxable contained a new Wales a higher charge of disposal at authorised landfill £133.45/tonne (£137.00/ clause with potential sites and disposals made at implications for several tonne from 1 April 2019) unauthorised sites. It states applies for unauthorised that Landfill Tax is now due parties, including AGS deposits of waste. The on disposals of material at members. lower rate of £2.80/tonne unauthorised sites in England (£2.90/tonne from 1 and Northern Ireland; this also April 2019) for qualifying materials does not applies to disposals prior to 1st April 2018 that

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

Landfill Site at Beddingham from Itford Hill

apply to disposals made at unauthorised sites.

can also “ HMRC charge an additional

HMRC fine.

HMRC and the EA are HMRC can also charge an working together to actively additional penalty of 100% of find unregulated disposal penalty of 100% of the the landfill tax due. If they sites and there have already landfill tax due. decide to prosecute a criminal been direct approaches offence, an unlimited fine and/ to AGS members from or up to 7 years in prison are possible. These HMRC/EA asking for proof to be provided of would be in addition to any costs that might compliance with the DoWCoP. The regularity apply to remedy the unauthorised disposal if of prosecutions and the value of fines is required by the Environment Agency (EA) and increasing, with enforcement and prosecution any fines or penalties they may look to impose. replacing the consultative approach previously adopted by the EA. Chubb report that Implications the average fine by the EA has increased dramatically from £5,000 in 2000 to £178,000 in There are reports of developers who dispose 2017. of spoil arisings from construction sites at unauthorised sites (i.e. to land without a Permit/ Licence, without an exemption or which are not in compliance with the CL:AIRE DoWCoP). The implications of Clause 24.4 for AGS members are that, if they are considered to have facilitated any such disposal, they could be jointly or severally liable for the landfill tax that should have been paid along with the

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To illustrate the point, a successful 2017 prosecution for depositing 3,920 tonnes of waste on land in breach of a waste exemption attracted a fine of £19,500. Under the further sanctions outlined above (assuming a criminal prosecution is not pursued), HMRC could potentially apply for £350,000 of landfill tax due and a further fine of £350,000 (100%

matching of the landfill tax amount). In addition, the site owner may be instructed to remediate the site and may be liable for associated EA penalties or fines.

Recommendations A person can show that they did not knowingly cause or knowingly permit a disposal at an unauthorised site if they take all reasonable steps to ensure that a disposal at an unauthorised site does not happen. HMRC intend to consider the criteria set out in the Defra Waste Duty of Care Code of Practice in determining such “reasonable steps” (some of which are more relevant to AGS members than others). HMRC expect a person to: •

•

•

•

•

•

make reasonable checks that the next waste holder is authorised to take the waste material

evasion through your business In terms of the appropriate application of the DoWCoP, six requirements must be met to ensure that materials management complies and waste licensing regulations are not breached: •

Protection of human health and environment

•

Suitability of material for its intended use

•

Certainty of material use

•

Quantity of material for use is appropriate

•

Verification reporting

•

Competence of practitioners

Although the verification report has always been an essential requirement of the DoWCoP, it has often been overlooked after the Material ask the next waste holder where they are Management Plan has been prepared and going to take the material and obtain proof Qualified Person (QP) declaration submitted. if possible Under the current version of the DoWCoP, the verification report is not provide an accurate As a step in required to be submitted to description of the material this direction, the EA nor reviewed by the when it is transferred to QP. However, this is likely another person the current QP to change in the upcoming declaration form now as a company director Version 3 of the DoWCoP. asks for the identity or partner, be directly As a step in this direction, engaged or responsible for of the organisation the current QP declaration decisions made regarding and individual(s) form now asks for the the disposals of material identity of the organisation with responsibility by that business and individual(s) with for producing the responsibility for producing as a landowner, ensure verification report... the verification report that any lease or rental as well as an estimated agreements state clearly what production date as a reminder that these are the premises or land may or may not be required. used for

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as a corporate body, to include risk management procedures within your company’s risk assessment to take steps to prevent criminal facilitation of Landfill Tax

Article contributed by Geoffrey Perrett, BuroHappold Engineering Andy O’Dea, WSP

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Figure 1: Overview of the Engineering Geology Life Cycle and data collected throughout

Data, Technology and Engineering Geology

A

What does the future hold?

s it stands the engineering interpretation of data and each party focused geology life cycle (Figure 1) feels a on different phases of the life cycle. However, bit disconnected, especially when it this should not be used as an excuse. The lack comes to passing data through each phase of of technological advancements across the the project. This leads to data construction industry has also being lost at each stage of left us lagging behind other The creation the cycle and ultimately the sectors of the economy of the AGS data project never benefiting from (Figure 3). format in 1991 was all the potential information The creation of the AGS a significant step available (Figure 2). data format in 1991 was a to improving data State of play significant step to improving transfer in the ground data transfer in the ground This is somewhat engineering industry. engineering industry. understandable given the However, there have been number of different parties limited further strides involved in the collection, processing and

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Figure 2: Schematic of the current and potential journey of information through the different phases of a typical engineering geology project

Figure 3: Productivity of the construction industry compared with services, manufacturing & the whole economy.

Source: Taken from McKinsey Global Institute (2017)

forward since then and we are approaching the 30year anniversary since its introduction. So, what is the solution?

Data at the centre

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The emergence of the Common Data Environment (CDE) facilitates this. The CDE is not new but its application is still limited to a select number of projects, despite the obvious benefits. For one, it provides a single source of truth that all parties can trust in. This is essential for large infrastructure projects such as HS2, Heathrow and Thames Tideway that have tens of thousands of documents across multiple disciplines. A CDE combined with a clear workflow also encourages collaboration and early sharing of information allowing

The CDE is not new but its application is still limited to a select number of projects, despite the obvious benefits.

Firstly, we must put data at the centre of the engineering geology life cycle (Figure 4) and map out how data will move through the life cycle and the supply chain. By doing this we ensure data is transferred in the most efficient way possible. This must happen right at the start of the project.

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Figure 4: The engineering life cycle with data at the centre

engineering geologists and designers to make more informed decisions earlier in the project life cycle. For this to work we must also ensure there is interoperability between software and a well-defined data taxonomy is agreed across the industry (i.e. an AGS approach across the whole life cycle).

risks undermining the technology that will assist.

Technologies that are already showing ‘added value’ include:

1. Drones – Benefits include surveying large areas quickly, accessing places that are too dangerous for humans to access and Where can technology assist? ability to generate ‘intelligent’ 3D It is important that any models of sites that open the It is important new technology has a clear door to ‘unlimited’ site visits; that any new tangible benefit. This might 2. 3D Ground Modelling – technology has a clear be increasing the accuracy Allows better visualisation tangible benefit. This of analysis, providing new data, improving efficiency might be increasing the of ground related risks to help ground engineers of a task, facilitating better accuracy of analysis, make more informed communication between the providing new data, decisions. It also acts as a supply chain or improving powerful communication improving efficiency safety. By identifying this tool to communicate ground of a task, facilitating ‘added value’ at the start of risks to clients and other the project and reviewing better communication stakeholders (Figure 5); and it throughout ensures that between the supply technology is not used just 3. Smart Infrastructure – chain or improving for the sake of using it – Enables real-time asset data safety. something that potentially

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to be obtained that can assist design verification, early identification of potential problems and a predictive maintenance approach.

Artificial intelligence (AI) also has huge potential to assist the ground engineering industry. Yes, the ground is notoriously unpredictable making it difficult for AI to make reliable predictions on ground conditions or parameters. But based on historic data, AI could produce generative models that ground engineers could test and revise following targeted ground investigations.

Figure 5: Snapshot of Leapfrog model of Thames Tideway East shaft created to help visualize how potential fractures intersect with the shaft

Challenges We should not shy away from the fact that embracing technology will bring its own challenges.

Four of the key challenges are: 1. Upskilling of the industry; 2. Validation of new software; 3. Industry standards; and 4. Industry culture.

Firstly, we must ensure that people are adequately trained in any new software tools and processes that are available (e.g. borehole logging using tablets). This is no easy task and ignites the debate as to whether the training responsibility lies with the industry or university. What is for sure though is that without the necessary skills to use and interpret the results from new technology we won’t be able to achieve nearly as much as we could. Geologists must also not forget their core skills of critical thinking and interpreting the subsurface.

Secondly, we must ensure new technology is robust and can be trusted. It is very easy to produce an all singing and dancing 3D model, but it must also make geological sense.

Professor Fookes hinted at this in the First

Glossop Lecture where he stated, “Technical innovation must stand the test of time in order to prove its worth”. We must also ensure that new processes and technology are also incorporated into existing industry standards or if required new standards developed.

The most difficult challenge of all, is the cultural transformation of the industry. Currently the value of data is not well enough understood, particularly among clients. As it is the clients who hold the purse strings, it is them who can lead the transformation. But it is equally the job of designers and contractors to share success stories and highlight the benefits that technology and effective information management can bring. This is particularly important if benefits are not realised until further down the asset life cycle. It is also crucial that the whole supply chain is singing

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Acknowledgements • Costain, Vinci, Bachy (CVB) JV for allowing the inclusion of a snapshot of a Thames Tideway East shaft Leapfrog model.

Further reading BIM model-based design delivery: Tideway East, England, UK. In Schooling, J. and Soga, K. (ed) Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers - Smart Infrastructure and Construction, ICE Publishing, 170(3), 50-58.

Bolton, A., Butler, L., Dabson, I., Enzer, M., Evans, M., Fenemore, T., Harradence, F., et al. (2018).

Gemini Principles. (CDBB_REP_006)https:// doi.org/10.17863/CAM.32260.

Photo credit: Dr Tim Rogers Gakis, A., Cabrero, P., Entwisle, D. and Kessler, H. 3D geological model of the completed off the same hymn sheet.

Farringdon underground railway station.

In: Black, M, Dodge, C and Where do we go from Whether it is Lawrence, U. (ed) Crossrail here?

Project: Infrastructure providing additional Whether it is providing design and construction, ICE tools to better equip additional tools to better the ground engineer or Publishing, London, 632pp. equip the ground engineer Network Rail. 2018. creating cost savings or creating cost savings for Earthworks Technical the client, the benefits of for the client, the Strategy, 67pp. embracing new technologies benefits of embracing McKinsey Global Institute. and effective information of new technologies and Reininventing Construction: management are clear. What A Route to Higher effective information we must do is to be better at management are clear. Productivity. February 2017. sharing these benefits and Schwab, K. and Davis, success stories, particularly N. Shaping the Fourth with clients.

Industrial Revolution. World Economic Forum.

289pp.

Yes, there will be challenges along the way, particularly winning the hearts and minds Farmer, M. 2016. The Farmer Review of the UK of everyone in the industry but these are Construction Labour Model. worth overcoming. We must remember that Construction Leadership Council (CLC). 76pp. new technologies should make the life of an engineering geologist easier, not harder and allow us to focus on what we do best Article contributed by critical thinking and interpreting the ground.

Jonny Neville, It is important that these core skills are not Information Manager & Engineering Geologist sacrificed as these are things that technology Mott MacDonald cannot replace.

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We also offer laboratory tours, sample reception, weighing and splitting, analytical preparation and instrumental analytics.

Whether one-off studies or long-term monitoring, we have the range of analytical capabilities to fulfil your needs.

Whether large site investigation support or WAC testing, we have the capacity to make sure your deadlines are met.

UKAS

PROFICIENCY TESTING

1247

Photo credit: Rachael Bell, Geotechnical Engineering Ltd

SiLC, SQP and NQMS Update Spring 2019

T

here are now 196 registered SiLCs. The current round of examinations (2019a) has 13 candidates and the previous round (2018b) had 14 candidates.

This is somewhat more than the numbers in previous years and indicates that the register is growing and has become a recognised body of professionals who have demonstrated their capability and experience in the brownfield sector. SiLC are the awarding body for the registration of SQPs under the National Quality

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Magazine

Mark Scheme (NQMS) and there are currently 97 SQPs. This obviously indicates that not all SiLCs have taken the online conversion course and exam to become an SQP. You have already demonstrated your capability in order to become a SiLC. The online exam is not intended to retest this but instead is there to ensure you have the additional knowledge to be an SQP. All the information you need is in the slides that form part of the online conversion course. You

have a relatively short step to becoming an SQP.

“

Most of us have an interest in achieving high standards in the products we deliver to our clients and the services we provide and therefore should be using whatever means are available to us to demonstrate this high standard.

Most of us have an interest in achieving high standards in the products we deliver to our clients and the services we provide and therefore should be using whatever means are available to us to demonstrate this high standard. The NQMS can do this. Quite a number of clients are reported to be asking for Declarations to be submitted under the NQMS, ie signed off by an SQP. However, it is acknowledged that more publicity of the scheme is needed so that the NQMS becomes more recognised with respect to its benefits. SQPs explaining the benefits of the scheme to their clients will help this.

A number of local authorities are now signposting the NQMS. A selection is presented below; •

• Worcestershire Regulatory Services reference NQMS WRS recommend SQP appointment for expediency purposes: http://www. worcsregservices.gov. uk/media/3261881/ WRS-technicalguidance-document-forPlanning-V4.pdf

Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Plan - Contaminated Land Supplementary Planning Document - supports the NQMS for land affected by contamination as a desirable component of any work undertaken to deal with land contamination: http://www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/ data/assets/pdf_file/0020/131708/03_ Contaminated-Land-SPD_adoptedSep-2016.pdf

Staffordshire Local Authorities (9 local authorities) reference NQMS in their developers On receipt of a guide regarding report with the competent people: NQMS mark we would https://www.newcastlestaffs.gov.uk/sites/ hope to find the review default/files/IMCE/ of the report to be Environment/EnvProc/ straightforward and Developers_Guide_2017. be able to determine it pdf

“

•

•

Pollution-Control/Hertsand-beds-guidancerevision-2018.pdf

One other local authority has stated that “On receipt of a report with the NQMS mark we would hope to find the review of the report to be straightforward and be able to determine it as acceptable ideally without as acceptable ideally any queries at all”. However, Herts & Bedfordshire and they go on to say that they without any queries at Neighbouring Authorities “will not take the view that all...

Contaminated Land this scheme is a means to Forum (17 local authorities) streamlining the satisfaction reference NQMS in their guidance regarding of conditions to the point at which a submitted competent people: report is accepted without conditions”. It https://www.hertsmere.gov.uk/ should be pointed out that this is not the aim Documents/04-Environment-Refuseof the NQMS. Instead it is intended to raise -Recycling/Environmental-Health/ standards and produce a quality that local



March / April 2019

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SiLC Development Programme

authorities can rely on to enable them to utilise their resources as they think appropriate. It is hoped that many more local authorities will see the advantage to them of signposting to the NQMS. As many will know, the Environment Agency have endorsed the scheme and the following give an indication of standard advice on planning application responses suggesting that the NQMS is used:

“

https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/ Images/126892_tcm15-64412.pdf

•

http://www.boston.gov.uk/ PlanningDocs/BBC/B-16-0282-CD1/EA_ response_B_16_0282_CD1.pdf

•

http://www.planningservices.haringey. gov.uk/portal/servlets/AttachmentShow Servlet?ImageName=1051250

•

https://infrastructure.

Magazine

SiLC Affiliate Scheme Becoming chartered is a prerequisite to applying for SiLC Registration. Thus, those that have a specific interest in the brownfield sector and are looking to progress their careers in this direction need to plan for both becoming a full member of their chosen institution as well as becoming a SiLC. To facilitate this, the SiLC Affiliate Scheme has been launched and details are on the SiLC website (www.silc.org. uk) where there is an application guide and an application form. As indicated in the JulyAugust 2018 edition of the AGS Magazine, the scheme is of interest to graduates and those who have already progressed their careers beyond graduation but not yet become chartered, to work towards full membership

Becoming chartered is a prerequisite to applying for SiLC Registration.

•

22

planninginspectorate.gov.uk/wp-content/ ipc/uploads/projects/TR010036/ TR010036-000371-Environment%20 Agency%20Letter%20-%2018.10.18.pdf

and chartered status of a professional body with the assistance of a professional body adviser, and then progress towards SiLC/ SQP registration with the assistance of a SiLC mentor. The scheme can be entered at any level. The aim is to provide an integrated process for those on the scheme with clear objectives utilising the Brownfield Skills Development Framework and an early understanding of the purpose and benefits including CPD, the NQMS and the role of an SQP. Members of the scheme will be designated as SiLC Affiliates, each with a SiLC Affiliate number, thereby demonstrating an individual’s commitment to becoming chartered and, in due course, a SiLC. The annual membership cost of the SiLC Affiliate Scheme is £50 plus VAT and includes 20% discount on the attendance fee for the SiLC Annual Forum.

List of qualifying professional bodies CIEH Chartered Institute of Environmental Health

CIWEM Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management GS

Geological Society

IEMA Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment ICE

Institution of Civil Engineers

RSC

Royal Society of Chemistry

Scheme also supported by AGS Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists If you, or someone you know, think you may be interested in this scheme then ‘check out’ the details on the SiLC website and, if you like what you see, join the scheme.

Article contributed by Roger Clark Director Marlowclark Consulting Limited

March / April 2019

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AGS Working Group Focus

Safety Overview 1. AGS Health & Safety Conference – 21st November 2019

The first AGS Safety Working Group meeting of 2019 took place on Wednesday 23rd January 2019 and the Leader of the AGS Safety Working Group, Adam Latimer of Ian Farmer Associates, has provided an update on the top issues the Safety Working Group are currently discussing.

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Magazine

“

The conference will include key note speakers and two break-out workshops. The speaker line-up will be announced in the AGS Magazine and on the AGS website in due course.

The AGS will be holding a conference on Health, Safety & Environmental topics on 21st November 2019 at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham. The conference will include key note speakers and break-out workshops. The speaker lineup will be announced in the AGS Magazine and on the AGS website in due course. Details of the sponsorship packages

can be viewed on the AGS website.

2. New and Updated Health and Safety Guidance

The Safety Working Group have recently published a number of guidance documents including Guidance on Slope Climbing Rigs, Manual Handling and Unexploded Ordnance. The Safety Working Group are also progressing with guidance documents on track mats and tracked plant, the H&S Risk Assessment

Photo credit: Geotechnical Engineering Ltd

for Ground are working to The creation Investigation produce a and minimum number of of bespoke and levels of articles on clear guidance for training and ground engineers is a trial pitting, competence.

PAS 128 (now key aim of the Safety There are plans published), Working Group. to develop a track plant, range of topics occupational H&S legislation can centred around health and be a mine field to health and heat stress navigate and these well-being. for future concise and succinct The creation of issues of publications offer bespoke and the AGS clear guidance Magazine. some clarity for our for ground Despite the members. engineers is guidance a key aim of the being free to Safety Working Group. H&S download from the website, legislation can be a mine field the AGS magazine offers an to navigate and these concise invaluable mechanism to and succinct publications offer promote the work of the AGS some clarity for our members. SWG and provide the guidance Compliance with Health & to a wider audience. The AGS is Safety legislation is of critical always looking at ways to raise importance in everything our awareness within our industry members do and as such the and up-to-date guidance AGS offers our members free and magazine articles are an and unbiased guidance on excellent vehicle to convey our the main issues affecting our message. The AGS continues industry. AGS Guidance can to work collaboratively with all be downloaded from the AGS our members and other trade website. association groups to improve our industry.

“

3.AGS Safety Articles

The AGS Safety Working Group

4. Possibility of a Health, Safety and Environment Awareness Workshop to Undergraduates The AGS Safety Working Group are in the early stages of investigating the possibility of a Health, Safety and Environmental Awareness Workshop to Undergraduates.

Work is ongoing to establish the current level of understanding on university geosciences courses and whether a workshop would be beneficial.

Feedback The Safety Working Group always welcomes new members and any feedback from the membership on hot topics that they wish to raise and encourage any near misses and incidents to be shared to the wider industry, so we can strive to making our industry safer. Please send any feedback toags@ags.org.uk.

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

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Q & A with...

Eur Ing

Jim Cook

BSc, MSc, C Eng, C Geol, FICE, FGS What or who inspired you to join the geotechnical industry?

Job Title: Director Company: Geotechnical Services Bureau Ltd Brief Biography: Jim is both a chartered civil engineer and a chartered geologist and has worked in the geotechnical industry for over forty years both as a specialist contractor and a geotechnical consultant. He is experienced in most of the facets of geotechnical engineering including site investigation, foundation construction and geotechnical design for many different types of structures and buildings. He has substantial overseas experience particularly the Gulf States, West and East Africa, India, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong. In recent years, Jim has been involved in major geotechnical design and construction assignments in USA and the Caribbean

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Magazine

recollection of a structural I was initially indentured as engineering lecturer stating a civil engineer with a local that “he could design a authority in London and concrete and steel structure undertook to perform as part time required as After a couple education at both had of years I Westminster man-made joined a major College. After stiffnesses but a couple of civil engineering a geotechnical years, I joined engineer contractor Costain a major civil and was immediately who has to engineering deal with seconded to their contractor, the ground geotechnical Costain, which has no and was company Foundation guaranteed immediately stiffness or Engineering Ltd... seconded to behaviour has their geotechnical major issues”. company, Foundation This wetted my appetite for Engineering Ltd, who the challenges of ground undertook most forms of engineering. geotechnical engineering As a young geotechnical including site investigation, engineer I was given foundation construction and responsibility to manage geotechnical design. It was teams of drillers, grouters, with this company that I anchorers and pilers on site was trained in all aspects of geotechnical construction and and learn the “how to do” of the geotechnical contracting foundation design. industry. It is from these What inspired me into experiences that I owe geotechnics initially was the my wealth of foundation lifestyle of a young engineer construction knowledge. travelling all over the UK and I was fortunate to work with working on different sites. My

“

Havard Deep Basement

and be guided by some of the “leading lights” in the ground engineering industry such as John Jennings, Stanley Serota and in particular Roy Wakeling.

“

Professor Noel Simons of Surrey University was my key mentor who helped to further develop and enhance my geotechnical design expertise...

With regards to academics, I clearly remember meeting Professor A W Bishop to find out how the Bishop Sand Sampler worked. Professor P Fookes also inadvertently raised my keen interest in geology. Professor Noel Simons of Surrey University was my key mentor who helped to further develop and enhance my geotechnical

“

A typical day nowadays starts with reviewing overnight emails and dealing with one or some of the following matters which may require desk studies, site visits and collaborative meetings.

or some of the following matters which may require desk studies, site visits and collaborative meetings.

• Litigation type matters.

Sometimes these can between a specialist contractor and a main contractor or an owner and contractor but all involve some aspect of ground engineering.

design expertise to match that of geotechnical construction, this is how I became an all-round geotechnical engineer.

What does a typical day entail?

•

A typical day nowadays starts with reviewing overnight emails and dealing with one

Design and Peer reviews for other consulting engineers or contractors

•

Optioneering reviews to

March / April 2019

27

develop the best foundation solution at concept stage and taking this through to construction.

•

Training of young civil engineers, particularly in the areas of geotechnical and geological risk.

•

Undertaking “pro-bono” work for RoGEP, AGS or Ground Forum.

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

I am particularly proud of returning to my “roots” in London, I was involved in the Thames Barrier as a young geotechnical engineer some 40 years ago and since then have worked as a geotechnical engineer in over 30 countries on many significant projects.

But I was extremely pleased to lead the Buro Happold ground engineering team that worked on the Lower Lea Valley proposal for the UK Olympic bid which then won and became the 2012 London Olympics.

In addition, I was involved at a senior level on the Arsenal Stadium, London Olympic Stadium, the refurbishment of The Cutty Sark and Emirates Cable Car which crosses the River Thames at the O2. These all posed tricky geotechnical issues which required some form of innovation. I consider that I have put something positive back into my “roots”.

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Magazine

Overseas I am quite proud of finding well educated the basement structure which graduates and training them was about 18m deep with a to become innovative ground footprint of approximately engineers.

22,500 square meters which was designed and constructed What AGS Working Groups are you a Member for Harvard University in Boston USA. This was arguably of and what are your current focuses? the largest single basement structure to be constructed on I am a member of the Senate the East Coast of the USA. The and focus on membership ground conditions comprised issues.

Boston Blue Clay over gravel I have been a long serving then rock close to the Charles Treasurer and also Chairman River which, presented major of the AGS and was challenges instrumental in that were The challenges the conception met by using of today are quite of the AGS and European modest compared have over 20 sophisticated years of active ground to managing a participation. investigation multi-million techniques pound geotechnical What do you and high enjoy most consultancy or quality about being geotechnical laboratory an AGS testing contracting Member? provided by company...

Massachusetts I suppose Institute of what I enjoy Technology. is the comradery which its membership provides and What are the most more so the fact that the ethos challenging aspects of is all about raising the profile your role? and standards in ground engineering in the UK. The challenges of today are quite modest compared What do you find to managing a multibeneficial about being an million pound geotechnical AGS Member? consultancy or geotechnical contracting company both of The benefits are not only the which I have been fortunate to wealth of publications that are manage. The challenges were produced which are extremely and probably still are getting informative, and also provide young people interested into sound risk advice. There is also geotechnical engineering, inputting into a collaborative

“

Cutty Sark

view on where the industry is going.

Why do you feel the AGS is important to the industry?

The AGS is now probably the major voice of the ground engineering industry and punches above its weight with clients and local authorities.

It provides regular support to those business institutions such as BSi, HSE and other government agencies.

What changes would you like to see implemented in the geotechnical industry?

I would like to see more collaborative efforts from

“

industry, outside of their I would like academics, skill and to see more institutions, experience local collaborative efforts base. authorities from industry, I would like to and academics, see all ground government institutions, local engineering departments. practioners authorities and Some of these becoming organisations government RoGEP are still departments. registered somewhat as this will disconnected. raise them to a higher level Ground Forum continues to of recognition and enhance develop the above linkages, the clients’ ability to select and I wish them well in their a competent and suitably endeavours. experienced ground engineer There are still many so called for their project. “engineers” offering clients ground engineering services

March / April 2019

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Standards Update

STANDARD BS 8485:2016 + A1:2019

BS EN ISO 15175: 2019 BS EN ISO 16133:2018

March 2019

RECENTLY PUBLIS SUBJECT / TEST S Code of Practice for the design of protective measures for methane and B carbon dioxide ground gases for new buildingsProtection of buildings against ground gas Characterization of contaminated soil related to groundwater protectio B Guidance on the establishment and maintenance of monitoring programmes [for soil quality] Geotechnical investigation and testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 10: Direct shear tests Geotechnical investigation and testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 11: Permeability tests

B

STANDARD BS 10176

B C BRITISH STANDARDS ON SOIL, GROUND SUBJECT / TEST S Sampling soils for determination of VOCs N

BS5930 Amendment

Ground investigation

E

STANDARD BS ISO 15176 (REVISION)

ISO STANDARDS ON SOIL & SITE SUBJECT / TEST S Re-use of excavated soil and soil materials B

BS ISO 15799 (REVISION)

Ecotoxicological characterization of soil & soil materials

B

ISO 15800 (REVISION)

Human exposure

I

BS ISO 18512 (REVISON)

Guidance on long & short-term storage of samples

B

ISO 21365

Conceptual site models for potentially contaminated sites

N

BS EN ISO 25177 (REVISION)

Soil quality – Field Soil Description

B

STANDARD BS EN ISO 22475-1 (REVISION)

SELECTED INTERNATIONAL & EUROPEAN “GE SUBJECT / TEST S Geotechnical investigation and testing – Sampling of soil, rock and B groundwater – Part 1 – Technical principles

BS EN ISO 17892-10:2018 BS EN ISO 17892-11:2019

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Magazine

B

SHED STANDARDS SUPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE BS 8485:2015

STATUS Published

PUBLICATION DATE January 2019

BS EN ISO 15175:2011 (ISO 2004)

Published

January 2019

BS EN ISO 16133:2011

Published

January 2019

BS1377-7, Clauses 4, 5 and 6

Published

February 2019

BS1377-5, Clause 5 and BS1377-6, Published March 2019 Clause 5 D & SITE ASSESSMENT - In preparation SUPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE STATUS PUBLICATION DATE New standard Draft for Public Comment expected June 2019 2020

Existing standard

E ASSESSMENT - In preparation SUPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE BS ISO 15176:2002

BS ISO 15799:2003

ISO 15800:2003

BS ISO 18512:2007

New Standard

BS EN ISO 25177: 2011

Awaiting approval from BSI to prepare amendment

2019

STATUS Proceeding to publication

PUBLICATION DATE 2019

Final Draft International Standard issued for comment Final Draft International Standard (FDIS) being prepared May be revised – decision pending.

2019

Final Draft International Standard (FDIS) being prepared FDIS being prepared

2020

EOTECHNICAL” STANDARDS – In preparation SUPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE STATUS BS EN ISO 22475-1:2006 UK comments on Draft International Standard (DIS) submitted to ISO in February 2019

2019 2020

2020

PUBLICATION DATE 2020

March / April 2019

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Upcoming Events The UK’s Largest Geotechnical Conference & Exhibition With just over 3 months remaining until Geotechnica 2019, there are an increasingly limited number of exhibition stands left. The event is shaping up to the biggest Geotechnica ever, with fresh enquiries for exhibition space arriving every day from companies across Europe.

To avoid missing out in July, get in touch now with Equipe to reap the rewards: • Communicate with industry leading practitioners, academia, suppliers and manufacturers.

• Promote your specialist services, latest products and innovations to the complete crosssection of geotechnical clients and customers.

• Network with peers, friends, old acquaintances, new potential clients and valued customers to form new business opportunities.

• Learn about different approaches, techniques & what is going on within and around the industry Registration for Geotechnica 2019 is now open, with exhibition spaces already in high demand.

Members of the AGS can claim a 5% discount on their booking total - to claim this discount contact info@geotechnica.co.uk.

For full event details or to book your Sponsorship or Exhibition Package, visit the Geotechnica 2019 website: www.geotechnica.co.uk

L I M I T E D E X H I B I T I O N S PA C E S R E M A I N D O N ’ T 32 M I S S O U T , BMagazine OOK YOUR PLACE NOW

www.geotechnica.co.uk

WITH WORLD CLASS GEOTECHNICAL TRAINING FROM EQUIPE

Health and Safety Courses

Delivered in partnership with RPA Safety Services

IOSH Safe Supervision of Geotechnical Sites (3 Days) - £495 + VAT Upcoming Dates:

3rd – 5th April 2019 8th – 10th May 2019 – Birchwood Park, Warrington

IOSH Avoiding Danger from Underground Services - £175 + VAT Upcoming Dates:

2nd May 2019 7th June 2019

IOSH Working Safely (on Geotechnical Sites) - £175 + VAT Upcoming Dates:

1st August 2019

Geotechnical Laboratory Courses Delivered in partnership with GEOLABS

Understanding & Scheduling Geotechnical Laboratory Tests - £225 + VAT Upcoming Dates:

15th May 2019

Upcoming Dates:

16th May 2019

Advanced Geotechnical Laboratory Testing Awareness - £225 + VAT

ATTEND BOTH COURSES & RECEIVE 10% DISCOUNT

Other Geotechnical Courses

Soil Description Workshop - £275 + VAT

Delivered by UK's leading Soil & Rock Description expert - Prof. David Norbury Upcoming Dates: 9th April 2019 15th May 2019

Rock Description Workshop - £275 + VAT

Delivered by UK's leading Soil & Rock Description expert - Prof. David Norbury Upcoming Dates: 10th April 2019 20th June 2019

Geotechnical Foundation Design - £250 + VAT Upcoming Dates:

24th May 2019 – Birchwood Park, Warrington 21st June 2019

March / April 2019

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Training Courses

CL:AIRE 2019 training courses now available • E-Learning Courses : Brownfield Site investigation; Soil and Groundwater Risk Assessment; Sustainable Remediation Appraisal & Asbestos Awareness for Land Professionals https://www.claire.co.uk/commerce/112346-elearning •

CAR-SOIL

•

Non Licensed Work for Land Professionals

•

Non Licensed Work for Groundworkers

https://www.claire.co.uk/commerce/112352-asbestos-in-soil-and-construction-demolitionmaterials-training •

Verification of Gas Protection Systems

https://www.claire.co.uk/commerce/112374-gas-protection All courses (except elearning and gas verification) also available on a bespoke basis. Please go to Help Desk and provide your requirements: 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 and EB Safety Solutions are delighted to announce their collection of specialist health and safety courses for the geotechnical market have been revised and renewed for 2019.

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: • 26th – 28th February 2019 - IOSH Safe Supervision of Geotechnical Sites • 28th March 2019 - IOSH Working Safely (on Geotechnical Sites) • 29th March 2019 - IOSH Avoiding Danger from Underground Services Other health and safety courses include our latest H&S focussed course: • 11th April 2019 - Accident and Incident Investigation Places on these courses can be booked online here, or via contacting Equipe on +44 (0)1295 670990 or info@equipegroup.com

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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 isThursday 16th May 2019.

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 Beale & Co. 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 contact Beale & Co and ask quote ‘AGS Helpline’ 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

Beale & Co Tel: +44 (0) 20 7469 0400 (Please quote‘AGS Helpline’) www.beale-law.com

Other Assistance

If you have any queries regarding AGS Data Format, there is a discussion forum on the AGS Data Format website, where queries can be posted and answered by the Data Format team.

For all other queries, please email ags@ags.org.uk, we will then forward your email to the relevant AGS Working Group.

Disclaimer These articles 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.

March / April 2019

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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 10 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

36

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

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST £50

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST £50

AGS Dates for Your Diary Upcoming AGS Events AGS Loss Prevention Seminar One Moorgate Place in London Wednesday 3rd July 2019 For more information, contact ags@ags.org.uk

AGS Safety Conference National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham Thursday 21st November 2019 For more information, contact ags@ags.org.uk

March / April 2019

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