AGS Magazine - August 2019 by AGS Magazine

August 2019

AN INSIGHT INTO THE SILC EXAM Louise Beale, Technical Director at SLR, provides an analysis of what to expect from the exam to become a Specialist in Land Condition

GEOTECHNICA 2019 SUMMARY AND REVIEW

COMMERCIAL RISKS & HOW TO MANAGE THEM

MATERIALS MANAGEMENT - ARE YOU COMPLIANT

An overview of the recent return of Geotechnica in the second week of July

Coverage of the recent AGS Conference on Commercial Risk

Andy Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dea of WSP returns to the issue of waste management

ABOUT THE AGS

Chair’s Foreword Along with some scorching weather (plus the odd thunderstorm) throughout July, we have also seen the installation of a new Prime Minister. As the turbulence of Brexit continues, we can only hope that investment into infrastructure is maintained, for the sake of all of our sanities! July saw two notable events in the AGS calendar - the first being the debut of our Commercial Risks and How to Manage Them Conference, which was a great success, with excellent attendance and extremely thought-provoking presentations delivered. The second notable event was the return of Geotechnica to the Warwickshire Event Centre. The AGS not only exhibited at the event to promote the AGS membership and initiatives, but Geotechnica also played host to two of our Working Group meetings. We would like to extend our thanks to everyone who participated in both of these events and contributed to their success. It is events such as these that help us continue

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to deliver AGS membership benefits and promote the industry to the wider geotechnical community., and this continued promotion and exposure can only be good for the Association going forward. This month’s magazine features an important update on waste management compliance from Andy O’Dea at WSP - be sure to read this to ensure you are maintaining your compliance. We are always on the lookout for additional, informative content for the magazine, so if you have a case study or technical article that you think the wider geotechnical and geoenvironmental public would find beneficial, please do get in touch. 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 Julian Lovell, AGS Chair Ciaran Jennings, Forum Court Associates Katie Kennedy, Forum Court Associates Chris Swainston, Soils Limited Stephen West, Ramboll Calum Spires, Equipe Group Neil Parry, GEL 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

Julian Lovell AGS Chair

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

Inside this month’s issue

FEATURE PAGE 14

 COVER STORY PAGE 12  A close look at what to expect when undertaking the Specialist in Land Condition (SiLC) exam.

IS YOUR MATERIALS MANAGEMENT COMPLIANT? Andy O’Dea, Technical Director at WSP, provides an update on waste management compliance. Following some recent action by HMRC and the Environment Agency, the drive to tackle waste crime is high on the EA agenda and the financial sanctions that HMRC bring now present both ‘carrot and stick’ on this issue.

GEOTECHNICA 2019 - SUMMARY AND REVIEW PAGE 4  A look back at another successful outing of the UK’s largest geotechnical conference & exhibition.

COMMERCIAL RISKS & HOW TO MANAGE THEM PAGE 8  A review of the first Commercial Risks Conference delivered by the AGS in July.

Q & A: ZITA MANSI PAGE 16  The AGS Magazine conducts a Q & A with Beale & Co’s Zita Mansi.

MORE INSIDE

PAGE 4

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News in Short: Incl. Top 3 Publications

PAGE 6

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Safety in Mind Conference Updates on upcoming event

PAGE 19

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AGS Working Group Update Laboratories

August 2019

News in Short Geotechnica 2019: Summary and Review On 10th & 11th July 2019, Geotechncia returned to the Warwickshire Event Centre for another extremely successful outing. For the eleventh year in a row, Geotechnica brought together the best and brightest within the geotechnical industry to communicate, promote, network and learn. The event attracted over 750 registered attendees, with 65 exhibitors and 9 conference speakers. The full Event Review with full event statistics and attending companies will shortly be made available on the Geotechnica website. The Aquaread Geotechnical Conference hosted a number of interesting and thought-provoking presentations, with topics including Eurocode Revisions, geotechnical failures, in-situ probes and dataloggers, plus sonic drilling innovations. Two AGS Working Group meetings took place at Geotechnica, with both the Contaminated Land WG and the Laboratories WG taking the opportunity to meet whilst enjoying the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest geotechnical conference and exhibition. Casagrande UK launched their new

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Casagrande C3XP-2 rig and Borehole Solutions demonstrated their sonic drilling capability, whilst Equipe launched their new eco-friendly, recyclable RhinoCorebox. Special thanks to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speakers at the Aquaread Geotechncial Conference: Prof. David Norbury (David Norbury Ltd), Dr Derek Egan (Remedy Geotechnics), Ben Gilson (Arup), Philip Wilson (WILGEO Ltd), Jonathan Miles (Arcadis), Paul Whitehead (Highways England), Dr George Tuckwell (RSK), Rutger van Goethem (Eijkelkamp SonicSampDrill BV) and Dr Andrew

Ridley (Geotechnical Observations). Special thanks also to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sponsors: Casagrande UK (Gold), Aquaread, CompAir (Silver), ALS, Borehole Solutions and Robertson Geologging (Bronze). Geotechnica will be entering into a biennial format going forward, so will be returning in 2021. Updated details about Geotechncia 2021 will be revealed on the Geotechnica website in the coming months. To stay up to date, please visit www.geotechnica.co.uk.

The top three AGS publications for July 2019 1. AGS Guidance on Waste Classification for Soils - A Practitioners Guide 2. AGS Guide: The Selection of Geotechnical Soil Laboratory Testing 3. AGS Guide to Ground Investigation Reports To download the publications for free; click here.

August 2019

Safety in Mind A conference from the AGS Health & Safety Working Group Thursday 21st November 2019 09:30 – 16:00 The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham, B92 0EJ The inaugural AGS Safety in Mind Conference hosts a selection of leading industry experts and keynote speakers, who will present on health and safety developments in the geotechnical and geo-environmental industry. Topics covered will include practical advice on how individuals and companies can best meet legal obligations for health and safety, new tools to manage health and safety effectively in the workplace, and a discussion on improving the safety culture within the industry. The conference will adopt a fresh approach to disseminating information and will feature breakout sessions and opportunities for discussion. It will also provide excellent networking opportunities with like-minded individuals.

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Network with a wide range of professionals from the geotechnical and geoenvironmental sector

Speakers include: •

Adam Latimer, Operations Director, Ian Farmer Associates Chair

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Quentin Emery, OCAID Ryder Marsh Encouraging positive safety behaviours in your workforce

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Gerwyn Leigh, RSK Safe Ground Service avoidance and geophysical techniques

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Jeremy Mitchell, Callidus Health & Safety Accident Investigation

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Steve Everton, Jacobs How far is “So far as is reasonably practicable” when working at height during trial pitting?

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Richard Voke, Ashfords LLP Challenges of HSE investigation

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Roseanna Bloxham, RSK Environment Lego Workshop: Health and safety awareness in the field

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Chris Langer, CIRAS Mindfulness in the workplace

Who is it for?

CPD

The Safety in Mind conference is aimed at anyone in the geotechnical and geoenvironmental sector who wishes to learn more about health and safety developments, issues and solutions in the industry.

This is a continuing professional development (CPD) event and all attending delegates can receive a certificate of attendance following the conference.

Why attend? • • • •

Get CPD hours Learn about developments in the world of health and safety New approaches and better ways to manage health and safety Practical workshops offered in mindfulness and H&S risks during intrusive investigations

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Ticket Prices £145 for AGS members and £215 for nonmembers. Prices exclude VAT. Spaces are limited; Please ensure you confirm your place by booking as soon as possible. Event registration closes on Friday 1st November. If you wish to attend, then please email ags@ags.org.uk for a booking form. Ticket price includes lunch and refreshments.

PLATINUM SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £1250 / Non-Member Rate: £1500) •

Board level Q&A in our AGS magazine on a thought leadership topic (4150 subscribers, 1pp) • Full page advert in AGS Magazine** • Entry for three delegates into the event • Company logo on each attending delegates’ lanyard • A designated area to exhibit company initiatives, research and software. This exhibition space can 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 • Three announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page • • Three announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS’ LinkedIn page   *one package available **terms and conditions apply

DIAMOND SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £1250 / Non-Member Rate: £1500) •

Catering sponsor: Exclusive sponsorship of Welcome drinks on arrival (tea, coffee, bespoke soft drink option where possible) with logo on menu • Board level Q&A in our AGS magazine on a thought leadership topic (4150 subscribers, 1pp) • 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 • Three announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS Twitter page • Three announcements of your company’s involvement on the AGS’ LinkedIn page   *one package available **terms and conditions apply

GOLD SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £750 / Non-Member Rate: £1000) • •

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   *Limited packages available

SILVER SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (AGS Member Rate: £500 / Non-Member Rate: £650) • • • • • •

Entry for one delegate into the event ¼ page advert in AGS magazine 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. Unlimited silver sponsorship packages available. For information on the sponsorship packages available or to register your interest, please contact Joanna Franaszczuk on 0208 658 8212 or email ags@ags.org.uk

August 2019

AGS Commercial Risks and How to Manage Them Conference T he AGS held itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Commercial Risks and How to Manage Them Conference on 3rd July 2019 at the Chartered Accountants Hall in Moorgate Place London, which was sponsored by BAM Ritchies, Bridgeway Consulting, Envirolab, Fugro, Geo

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Integrity, NHBC, Structural Soils, Socotec and Tensar. The event was a sell out and following a very nice lunch and opportunity to meet some of the sponsors, a tightly packed schedule with expert speakers talking on various pertinent topics was laid on for delegates.

Zita Mansi (Beale & Company) geotechnical works are Further advice kicked off with detailing considered high risk what to look for in terms of because of the risks followed on appointment, such as limiting of ‘unknowns’ and the controlling additional assignments and 3rd party associated high value claims. contracts such as rights, limiting liability with The geotechnical engineer Collateral Warranties a financial cap, ideally in the can unwittingly become which multiply aggregate (noting that this part of a dispute even when is different to the limit on PI they have discharged their liabilities and insurance), and excluding duties under the contract. reassignments, which indirect / consequential Reiterating and expanding transfer liabilities. liabilities. Further advice on Hugh’s message, the followed on controlling additional advice was to beware contracts such as Collateral Warranties which Client’s making assumptions on the scope multiply liabilities and reassignments, which and objectives. Further there is onus on the transfer liabilities. Both should reflect the engineer to reference limitations, qualifications original contract and avoid extending the and assumptions relating to advice given to scope and duration of liabilities. Such additional avoid misuse and misinterpretation and an risks should be priced appropriately. unintended extended duty of care. Generally claims often occurred where there was an Hugh Mallett (BuroHappold and AGS Loss interface between various non contracted Prevention Working Group Leader) spoke on parties and lack of communication. The advice the importance of defining the scope of works was to maintain an ‘eyes wide open’ policy. and objectives clearly and where something apparently wrong appears in the scope, this Russell Jones (Golder Associates) brought must be clarified and not forward the ‘battle of the forms’, ignored to avoid potential i.e. which form of contract future disputes. Even, applies when a client In a nutshell, the and especially, when the offers on form and the contract that has client is well known with a consultant/ contractor ‘acceptance’ will be good working relationship. offers an alternative. The deemed the relevant He recommended use of ‘alternative’ is still an document, which is authoritative definitions offer or counteroffer, until and report contents where acceptance is in place. In usually the ‘last shot possible, a clear agreed set wins ‘approach, i.e. the a nutshell, the contract of terms and conditions last counteroffer on the that has ‘acceptance’ will and checks / caveats on be deemed the relevant table. the quality of 3rd party document, which is usually data. Beware ‘cheap and quick’ the ‘last shot wins ‘approach, reports which impose the same i.e. the last counteroffer on liabilities as a full assessment. AGS LPA 69 the table. However, this can be counteracted provides appropriate advice and guidance. by action, such as the works starting which can be deemed as acceptance of the offered Stephen Hargreaves (Griffiths and Armour) contract. The key is negotiation, clarity and … provided a number of case studies based where possible, issue the last offer of terms! on insurance claims. He explained that

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August 2019

Adam Gombocz (NHBC) moved away from direct contractual issues to talk about how the NHBC â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Buildmarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; warranty provide insurance for building works, but will ONLY be granted when adequate and appropriate investigation, assessment and design has been completed

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to the satisfaction of the NHBC technical team. He described a number of shocking (and expensive!) case studies. Problems typically relate to lack of site investigation, soft soils, settlement, raised levels, groundwater and/ or deep fill, with most issues arising on site

where ground levels are raised and assessment/ design does not take account of this. Guidance on NHBC requirements regarding Land Quality is included in Chapter 4.1 of the NHBC guidance.

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waste producers, as the liability is ‘joint and several’. The legislation equally applies to construction wastes including incorrect use or abuse of waste exemptions or the CL:AIRE DOWCOP . Therefore, to protect against prosecution evidence is required to show that all reasonable steps have been taken to ensure that disposal at an unauthorised site doesn’t happen. This relates to making sure that material isn’t waste and if it is, that it is handled, disposed or re-used in accordance with the relevant legislation and that records are available as proof, such a checks on material being disposed to the correct site or production of a verification report.

Those at risk are anyone involved in wrongful deposition of waste, such as advisors, brokers, hauliers, landowners, waste producers, as the liability is ‘joint and several’.

Rachel Griffiths (Fugro) explained the ‘duty of care’ required in providing services or goods. Goods fall under a ‘fit for purpose’ requirement of the Sale of Goods Act. Provision of services falls under a requirement for ‘reasonable skill and care’ under the Supply of Goods and Services Act. These are different and consultants giving advice or providing designs should make sure that the contract is specific as to the required duty of care to avoid defaults and misunderstandings. This should also be made clear in reports. Similarly, beware wording in contracts that ‘warrants…. All attendees were given food for thought. For guarantees….. ensures….’ which implies a some it was maybe a ‘wake up’ call or reminder standard of services over and that simply ‘doing the job’ is not above reasonable skill and enough. All attendees care and increases liabilities The AGS website has were given food for and may not be covered by PI numerous documents and insurance. thought. For some it up to date commercial was maybe a ‘wake up’ As the final speaker, on a non guidance, freely available call or reminder that contractual topic, Jonathan to members and the Legal Atkinson (Environment simply ‘doing the job’ is Helpline offers members Agency) raised the subject 15 mins of free advice from not enough. of landfill tax being payable Beale and Co, if needed. on illegally deposited waste, be Presentations from the Conference with that on an unlicensed landfill or unpermitted approval from speakers can be viewed on the deposit on a construction site. Non complaint AGS website. disposed materials attract the higher rates of landfill tax and HMRC who are now working with the EA have the option to add a further Article contributed by penalty of 100% landfill tax. This is in addition to any prosecution and associated fines. It is Jo Strange, Technical Director at CGL also retrospective. Those at risk are anyone and Chair of the AGS Commercial Risks involved in wrongful deposition of waste, such Conference. as advisors, brokers, hauliers, landowners,

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August 2019

Photo credit: Hannah Bovenizer, RSK Environment

An Insight into the SiLC Exam

f you have ever considered applying to to negotiate agreement on a tricky site were be a Specialist in Land Condition (SiLC) big personal drivers. In my experience and and wondered what the process is like, from talking to others, where employers this may help you. We asked do not actively encourage some people who have professional accreditations Looking back recently become SiLC what from early years, SiLC over their SiLC their thoughts on the process. uptake is lower within an application process, organisation. There are Motivation for becoming candidates consider clients and regulators who a SiLC is often driven by require demonstration of it has given them personal desire, but support competence, such as SiLC, to increased confidence and encouragement from work on their projects. in their own abilities employers can really help. Aspirations to achieve the and instilled some new Looking back over their next obvious step in career SiLC application process, behaviours that help development and reassure candidates consider it them do a better job clients and regulators of has given them increased going forward. competence when trying confidence in their own

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

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abilities and instilled some new behaviours expected to employ rigorous questioning and that help them do a better job going forward. checking of facts and research. The pass rate For instance, they have continued the rigour in is higher for those who attend the Induction researching source documents for actual legal Day compared to those who don’t. Some definitions or specific wording consultancies have hosted in guidance rather than Induction Days for a number Candidates should relying on memory or text of their staff at one time. not underestimate within a previously written The interview was generally the time required to report. During exam research complete the exam and found to be “challenging one candidate set up a series but fair and friendly”. of weblinks to key documents this can be the reason Those candidates who which they now consult why some candidates had reviewed their exam easily and regularly as part of fail. submissions prior to the their job. Another candidate interview and acknowledged really enjoyed going back to where they did not know an some of the source legislation that they might answer but could explain what they would do not have consulted for a while and reading to find out were typically more successful. minutes from some of the contaminated land forums which exist. On receiving the exam Candidates should not underestimate the questions, candidates tend to be aware of time required to complete the exam and this the main topics and knew where to start and can be the reason why some candidates fail. where further research was required to add However, those who have been through the detail to their answers. Some struggled with process and come out as a SiLC have found providing an executive style summary of data that it has given them increased confidence within a word count but recognise this is a key and often changes their ways of working for skill for presenting technical information to the better. It is also easy CPD for the year. All clients. It is always best to write the summary say that having done it that they feel it was a and then go back through it, perhaps several worthwhile and rewarding experience. times, to ensure that all the salient points As a SiLC we can help raise standards within are covered and that the envisaged client our industry by encouraging our employers would get an appropriate understanding of to support and promote professional the site, based on the information provided, accreditation and raise awareness with and also to check that words are not used up potential clients and regulators of systems in unnecessarily where a more concise use of place to demonstrate competence. words would leave some words to enable the adding of more information provided that it is Further information about SiLC can be found included in the supplied report extracts etc. on the SiLC website. Many said that the SiLC Induction Day was beneficial, making people feel “I’m ready for this” or “I can achieve this” and de-busting Article contributed by some of the myths about how difficult it is to become a SiLC. It highlighted the need to Louise Beale consider what being a specialist within your Technical Director own field and experience means. You are SLR not expected to be an expert but you are

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August 2019

IS YOUR MATERIALS MANAGEMENT COMPLIANT? In an article in the March/April AGS Magazine on “Recent changes to Landfill Tax”, Andy O’Dea of WSP highlighted the keen interest HMRC are taking in this issue and the prospect of serious fines and prosecutions for those failing to properly regulate the soils they reuse onsite or export to other sites. Following some recent action by HMRC and the Environment Agency, Andy provides us with an update.

s part of a day of action (23 May 2019) HMRC and the Environment Agency teamed up to inspect 60 waste sites potentially treating, storing or disposing of waste illegally. Described as the “biggest single joint day of action” on suspected

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waste crime, this is something we have been expecting! The drive to tackle waste crime is high on the EA agenda and the financial sanctions that HMRC bring now present both ‘carrot and stick’ on this issue. The visits so far are targeting obvious criminal activity where no care for the environment is taken and quick financial gain by avoiding waste fees is the main driver. However, general earthworks and remediation projects for brownfield sites need to heed this news as reusing soils without robust documentation falls under the same principles and may result in audit or inspection by the EA/HMRC. By far the simplest, quickest and efficient

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

way to regulate the reuse become a mixed waste. It is Securing a of soils onsite or export of now likely that the soils will declaration clean, natural soils for use have to be disposed of to under the DoWCoP on another site is the use landfill or subject to waste of Material Management treatment because it was is generally Plans under the CL:AIRE not managed properly. straightforward when Definition of Waste Code done in advance and In our experience, this is of Practice (DoWCoP). not an isolated incident. supported by the Securing a declaration under Poor material and required information the DoWCoP is generally waste management on straightforward when done about the materials to construction sites, lack of in advance and supported be reused. segregation and inadequate by the required information management of subabout the materials to be reused. contractors is resulting in unexpected costs for However, the declaration is not the end of the developers or worse, going unnoticed. waste discussion; tracking soil movements and verification of the works is paramount to The introduction of the CL:AIRE Code of completing the project. If the verification loop Practice has been a positive move in the is not closed, HMRC are of the opinion that sustainable reuse of soils on development the soils reused remain a waste and attract sites but now is the time to make sure sites are landfill tax (and additional penalties related to managing the soils properly. We are confident unauthorised sites). that prosecutions will be brought forward Recently we audited a development site working under a Materials Management Plan and Declaration. The intention was for clean, naturally derived soils to be transported to a receiver site. Our visit uncovered that the soils intended for transfer had been moved on site and become intermixed with a large amount of construction waste, wooden pallets, concrete, asphalt, mortar, plastic, wire and metal. The soil is no longer suitable for transfer, it has

soon and that a declaration is not protection in itself. Effective management of soils and demonstration of this through verification is vital to avoid hefty fines and reputational damage.

Article contributed by Andy Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dea Technical Director WSP

August 2019

Q & A with...

Zita Mansi Job Title: Senior Associate

Company: Beale & Co.

Brief Biography: Zita has specialised in environmental and construction professional indemnity law since May 2002. Her construction practice includes the defence of claims against engineers, architects and other construction consultants and bringing claims for contribution and counterclaims for fees where necessary. Her environmental practice includes: defence of claims against construction consultants arising out of contaminated land issues; defending claims in negligence, public or private nuisance for losses attributable to environmental factors (contamination, odours, noise, vibration, dust, flooding etc); responding to enforcement actions and investigations undertaken by various regulators following environmental incidents (including advising before and during interviews under caution, submissions to the regulator regarding level of harm caused, and establishing whether the regulator has followed its own internal policies and procedures); defending environmental prosecutions and related third party claims. Zita is responsible for the day-to-day conduct of litigated and non-litigated disputes and frequently acts in multiparty disputes in the TCC, in mediations and other forms of ADR. She also acts in regulatory matters in a construction context, advising clients in response to HSE investigations and defending prosecutions.

What or who inspired you to become a lawyer in the construction industry? During my training contract to become a solicitor I did a seat in the construction team of the firm I was with. I really enjoyed the complexity of construction

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projects and every case is so different and offers a new challenge. There are also many technical as well as legal issues to understand too. From early on I was involved in defending claims brought by developers against ground engineers. I developed a special interest in

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From early on I was involved in defending claims brought by developers against ground engineers.

these types of claims and helping engineers to put in place simple measures to avoid them.

What does a typical day entail? Every day is different of course but a typical day would involve reviewing documents, attending meetings and / or phone calls with clients. Dealing with ad hoc queries. We also manage the AGS Legal Helpline so I quite often will deal with calls from that.

Are there any cases which youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re particularly proud to have advised on? I often defend prosecutions brought by the Environment Agency and on many occasions we have persuaded the Agency not to prosecute our client which is extremely

Photo credit: Steve Wray, Structural Soils

satisfying.

our objectives is to get across the message that there are What are the most simple things members can challenging aspects of do to reduce their exposure your role? to claims. The group held a seminar in London recently I will often have multiple deadlines running at the same on ‘Commercial Risks’ which I was lucky enough to speak at, time so managing these, my covering collateral time and warranties, multi-tasking One of our reliance between them objectives is and limiting can be difficult. to get across the liability. We It can also message that there are hoping be difficult to re-run the are simple things to switch off seminar in when I’m not members can do Manchester in the office to reduce their later in from certain exposure to claims. January 2020. cases that

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are particularly challenging.

What AGS Working Groups are you a Member of and what are your current focuses? I am a member of the Loss Prevention Working Group, which focusses on commercial risks faced by members and how to reduce them. One of

the Loss Prevention Working group. Understanding the reality of what the members work involves and the practical issues they face means that as a lawyer I can make my advice more relevant.

Why do you feel the AGS is important to the industry? The AGS is an important focal point and repository for knowhow tailored to this particular industry. It helps to maintain standards and their work can influence other industry bodies.

What changes would you like to see implemented What do you in the geotechnical most enjoy about being an industry? AGS affiliate and why is it I would like to see an beneficial? Being involved in the AGS gives members a great opportunity to share their knowledge and hear from other members and learn from them. I find this incredibly beneficial in my role as a lawyer and also on

acceptance by employers and clients that it is reasonable for engineers and contractors to limit their liability. Unlimited liability benefits no-one and only puts the consultant / contractor at risk of insolvency.

August 2019

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AGS Working Group Focus

Laboratories Overview Papers. This method has been sent to the members of the Laboratories Working Group to trial at their laboratories. The group are looking to discuss the outcomes of trialling this method at their next meeting.

2. The transition from BS1377 to BS EN17892 & BS EN 13286 (Earthworks testing)

Mark Beastall of Socotec, the recently elected new leader of the Laboratories Working Group, has provided an update on the top issues the Laboratories Working Group discussed at a recent meeting which took place in May 2019.

1. Validation of a suitable calibration procedure for the Filter Paper used in the BRE4/93 Soil Suction Test Dimitris Xirouchakis has written a new procedure for the calibration of Filter

Although a number of laboratories have now been granted accreditation to the BS EN methods, the industry outside of the laboratories seems very slow in the take up; i.e. not appearing in specification / testing instruction. The Laboratories Working Group are concerned about this and are trying to push out information to industry groups that BS1377 methods in their current form will soon be obsolete.

3. Increasing member participation The core members of the Laboratories Working Group

are all of the opinion that the participant numbers are far too low and attendance at the meetings rarely reaches double figures. It is essential for the future of this Working Group that numbers increase and that a broader (not just labs) attend these meetings to ensure the group are capturing the wider Geo-Environmental sector. The Laboratories Working Group are looking for new participants from AGS members who have a direct interest and influence on specifying / scheduling testing as well as AGS members with laboratories. The Laboratories Working Group are concerned that they are not getting a full picture of issues that AGS members are coming across and as such points of discussion and content of meetings can be limited. If you wish to attend AGS Laboratories Working Group meetings, please contact the AGS Secretariat by emailing ags@ags.org.uk.

August 2019

Upcoming Events

AGS Annual Conference DATE: Thursday 2nd April 2020 LOCATION: National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham The AGS are pleased to announce that their Annual Conference is taking place on Thursday 2nd April 2020 at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham. This full day seminar will focus on the work and achievements of the AGS and see expert speakers present on geotechnical and geoenvironmental topics and summarise lessons learnt. The full agenda and speakers will be confirmed in Autumn 2019. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. TICKETS A limited number of delegates per AGS member company may attend the conference free of charge. The number of complimentary tickets provided are dependent on the number of practitioners in your company – please see Table on the registration form. Additional tickets may be purchased for £60 (plus VAT) per AGS Member. Non-members may attend for £120 (plus VAT). If you wish to attend, then please email ags@ags.org.uk for a booking form. SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES Promote your organisation, services and skills – take advantage of one of our great sponsorship opportunities, which include benefits such as exhibition stands, advertising space and more. To register your attendance or for details on our available sponsorship packages, please contact Joanna Franaszczuk at ags@ags.org.uk.

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AGS Safety in Mind Conference DATE: Thursday 21st November 2019 LOCATION: National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham This full day conference will focus on topics of interest such as occupational health, mental health, the challenges of HSE investigation and 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 Tickets will be priced at £145 for AGS Members and £215 for non-members, and will include catering and refreshments. Prices exclude VAT. Event registration closes on Friday 1st November. If you wish to attend, then please email ags@ags. org.uk for a booking form. SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES Promote your organisation, services and skills – take advantage of one of our great sponsorship opportunities, which include benefits such as exhibition stands, advertising space and more. To register your attendance or for details on our available sponsorship packages, please contact Joanna Franaszczuk at ags@ags.org.uk.

Cone Penetration Testing in Geotechnical Practice DATE: 6th -7th November 2019 LOCATION: Brunel University, London An essential comprehensive training course and refresher for geotechnical & geo-environmental practitioners involved in Cone Penetration Testing for Onshore and Offshore Geotechnics. The course is devoted to raising awareness of current test procedures, advances, data derived from the tests and the importance of quality control. SPEAKERS Dr John Powell, Technical Director, GEOLABS Ltd Darren Ward, Managing Director, In Situ SI Tom Lunne, Expert Advisor, NGI WHAT DELEGATES WILL LEARN: • • • • •

Have an understanding of the importance of using CPT specialists Advantages and limitations of CPT tools and techniques An understanding of how CPT data can be used for soil interpretation An understanding of how CPT data can be used for design An appreciation of recognising suspect/erroneous data

COST: £350 + VAT per delegate HOW TO REGISTER: Please visit www.equipegroup.com or email info@equipegroup.com

August 2019

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

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Non Licensed Work for Land Professionals

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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: • 30th July - 1st August 2019 - IOSH Safe Supervision of Geotechnical Sites • 30th August 2019 - IOSH Working Safely (on Geotechnical Sites) • 17th September 2019 - IOSH Avoiding Danger from Underground Services Other health and safety courses include our latest H&S, asbestos-focussed course: •

3rd September 2019 - Managing and working with Absestos Risk in Ground Investigation

Places on these courses can be booked online here, or via contacting Equipe on +44 (0)1295 670990 or info@equipegroup.com 22

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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 isTuesday 13th August 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 Marquis & Lord Tel: +44 (0) 121 288 2386 www.marquisandlord.com

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

Member Reporting Service for Industry Issues 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. If a Member has any issues with regard to Safety, Contaminated Land, Geotechnical or Laboratories which you think the industry should be aware of 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.

August 2019

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

All advertising artwork must be supplied in 114 dpi resolution.

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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.