June / July 2019
IS TRIAL PITTING FIT FOR PURPOSE? The AGS Health & Safety Working Group takes a closer look at Trial Pitting to assess if it is fit for purpose in 2019
ASBESTOS RISK: PRACTICAL GUIDANCE
COVER SYSTEMS FOR LAND REGENERATION
SAFETY IN MIND: AN AGS CONFERENCE
A look at the risks posed by encountering asbestos and ACMs on site
AGS Review & Position Statement on Thickness Design of Cover Systems
Details revealed for latest AGS Health & Safety Working Group conference
ABOUT THE AGS
Chair’s Foreword With the weather finally starting to show signs of improving, the summer looks set to get into full swing for the UK geotechnical and geoenvironmental industries. For those of our readers who are regularly out on site, be sure to make the most of the weather while it lasts, and those of use who are more often confined to the office... business as usual!
‘Safety in Mind’. Tickets for this are now available but are selling fast, so get in touch to avoid missing out.
Work continues to trundle along nicely for many of our members and our Working Groups are, as always, hard at work. The Contaminated Land and Laboratory Working Groups are due to meet again at Geotechnica 2019 where I’m sure more productive discussions will be taking place. The AGS will also be exhibiting at Geotechnica, so if you are at the event be sure to say hello to our representatives there!
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.
In this issue of the magazine, we have insightful entries focussed on health and safety, including a look at the AGS Health & Safety Working Group’s latest conference titled 2
Magazine
Our cover article focusses on the contentious practice of trial pitting and asks whether it still has a place in 2019’s GI fieldwork. In addition we have a further discussion on practical guidance for managing and working with asbestos on site.
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 Caroline Kratz, 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
Photo credit: S M Associates
FEATURE PAGE 16
COVER STORY PAGE 10 The AGS Health & Safety Working Group takes a closer look at Trial Pitting to assess if it is fit for purpose in 2019.
Asbestos Risk: The need for practical industry guidance for ground investigation Richard Betts of EB Safety Solutions and Keith Spires of Equipe discuss the importance of practical and specific guidance for Ground Investigation practitioners and technicians when they come into contact with asbestos or ACMs when out on site.
SAFETY IN MIND PAGE 8 AGS Health & Safety Working Group introduce the lineup for their upcoming conference.
COVER SYSTEMS FOR LAND REGENERATION PAGE 20 AGS Review & Position Statement on Thickness Design of Cover Systems for Contaminated Land.
Q & A: GERAINT WILLIAMS PAGE 22 The AGS Magazine conducts a Q & A with ALS’s Geraint Williams
MORE INSIDE
PAGE 4
News in Short: Incl. VOC soil sampling
PAGE 25
AGS Working Group Update Contaminated Land
PAGE 26
Standards Update: June 2019
June / July 2019
3
News in Short Sampling soils for determination of VOCs The Draft for Public Comment (DPC) of BS 10176: Taking soil samples for determination of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — Specification is expected to be available for comment from 1 July. This new standard is intended to raise the reliability of sampling soils for determination of VOCs in the UK by introducing methods in common use in other countries including Australia and the United States for over twenty years. Its introduction will have profound impact on how companies carry out sampling for VOCs and require close cooperation between those carrying out field work and analytical laboratories. It has been known for decades that the methods commonly used in the UK do not provide reliable results and can lead to loss of VOCs during sampling and consequentially underestimation of potential risks to humans and other receptors. BS10176 will be a standard specification which means that it requirements must be closely followed to claim compliance. It thus differs from other standards such as BS 10175 and the BS ISO 18400 series which provide guidance and permit, and indeed rely on, the user using their judgement when applying them. Laboratories are required to provide preprepared sample containers prepared to the
4
Magazine
specification provided in the standard and these are to be used in the field in strict accordance with the procedures described in the standard. Samples must be transported to the analytical laboratory in strict accordance with the prescribed method. It is expected that in future any VOC results not obtained in accordance with BS 10176 could be rejected by assessors and regulators. It is essential, because of the potentially significant impact on how ground investigations are carried out, that potential users including laboratories properly scrutinise the draft standard and raise any issues they consider important using the BSI commenting system which is expected to be live from 1 July to 31 August (use link - https:// standardsdevelopment.bsigroup.com/ projects/2018-01305 ). Copies of the draft standard are available to AGS members from AGS. The Drafting Panel for the new standard is chaired by Geraint Williams of ALS (geraint. williams@alsglobal.com), a member of the AGS CLWG and AGS laboratories group. Mike Smith, a member of the CLWG, is also on the drafting panel.
Article contributed by Mike Smith M A Smith Environmental Consultancy
Draft BS 10176 - Scope This British Standard specifies methods for taking soil samples for the determination of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) so as to minimize the possible loss of VOCs to atmosphere during and after sample collection. Two principal ways of taking samples for VOC determination are specified: a)
a small intact core sealed to prevent loss of VOCs is taken and sent to the laboratory; and
b)
a small portion of material taken with a coring device is immediately placed in water or a preservative (e.g. methanol or sodium hydrogen sulfate) in a subsequently sealed vial to be sent to the laboratory.
The methanol immersion method described amplifies the guidance in BS EN ISO 15009, BS EN ISO 16558-1, BS ISO 18512 and BS ISO 22155 about this method and is intended to be followed in preference to the briefer descriptions in these four standards. NOTE 1 This standard uses the term “soil” to refer to “soil and soil materials” as defined BS ISO 11074:2015, 7.4.16, although the procedures specified might not be applicable to certain coarse soils and rocks (see Figure 1 and 6.2). NOTE 2 The methods described can be applied at the sampling location, in an on-site facility or at an off-site facility. In all three cases, the sample is then sent to the analytical laboratory. It is assumed that the overall site investigation is carried out in accordance with BS 10175 and that the sampling strategy is developed in accordance with BS10175 and BS ISO 18400-104. NOTE 3 The sampling methods described are suitable for use in connection with, amongst others, the analytical methods described in: •
BS EN ISO 15009: Gas chromatographic determination of the content of volatile aromatic hydrocarbons, naphthalene and volatile halogenated hydrocarbons – Purge-and-trap method with thermal desorption;
•
BS EN SO 16558-1: Risk–based petroleum hydrocarbons Determination of aliphatic and aromatic fractions of volatile petroleum hydrocarbons using gas chromatography (static headspace method);
•
BS EN ISO 22155: Gas chromatographic determination of volatile aromatic and halogenated hydrocarbons and selected ethers – Static headspace method.
The top three AGS publications for June 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 Environmental Sampling To download the publications for free; click here.
June / July 2019
5
Environment Agency publishes reformed land contamination guidance
•
•
The Environment Agency (EA) has published an update to the Model procedures for the management of land contamination (CLR11).
•
The updated online guidance is called: Land contamination: risk management (LCRM).
•
The EA is looking for feedback on the technical content and structure for a period of 6 months. Details of how to respond will be included in the guide.
•
CLR11 was introduced as a research document in 2004. It soon became the principal guidance for managing the risks from land contamination. It has never been updated. CLR11 was archived from GOV.UK in 2016 as part of the smarter guidance project. Archived content can be used for historical reference but it does not represent official EA or government guidance it cannot be used or relied upon as such. CLR11 is too significant, widely used and referenced to leave in the National Archive.
•
•
the EA must meet – it must be: accessible for people with disabilities - for example, be usable with assistive technology like screen readers navigable, concise, clear and understandable to all is web-based, easier to manage, maintain and keep up to date is now more user focussed, shorter and easier to understand is clear on what you have to do and where to find out more – the EA has retained the same referencing system as part 3 of CLR11, for example INFO-RA1 has to be aimed at people that might be doing this for the first time as well as experienced professionals is available online to use on all devices (laptop, mobile phone, tablet)
The technical language, terminology and content has been updated, explained and retained where necessary. Repetition and general background information has been removed so that the EA can meet GOV.UK publishing requirements.
Reformed content
The remediation process has been improved. The emphasis is now on developing and producing a single remediation strategy.
The EA has developed the reformed content based on the principles of CLR11. The scope, purpose and the framework of CLR11 remains the same. The reformed content: • represents up-to-date government guidance on land contamination risk management and is fully compliant to be published on GOV.UK • complies with new accessibility laws that
To accommodate this, some of the latter stages and tiers have been revised and reordered. Stage 2 now focusses on options appraisal whereas stage 3 is all about remediation and verification. This does not impact upon: • the framework and purpose introduced by CLR11 • any ongoing or planned land contamination projects
6
Magazine
LCRM was produced as a solution to CLR11 being archived. CLR11 will be permanently withdrawn after the feedback. This will avoid any confusion over which guidance to use. The EA is actively seeking feedback so that the new guidance is acceptable to both industry and regulators.
LCRM will represent the latest EA guidance on land contamination and it’s what they expect people to use.
Article contributed by CL:AIRE on behalf of the Environment Agency
QUALITY YOU CAN RELY ON
24HR REAL-TIME RESULTS ONLINE WITH LIMS
HAZARDOUS WASTE ASSESSMENT
WAC TESTING
SOIL TESTING
REMOTE BAR CODE SCHEDULING SYSTEM
ASBESTOS TESTING GROUND- AND SURFACE-WATER TESTING
IN-HOUSE SAMPLE DELIVERY & COLLECTION
TARMAC RE-USE TESTING INDUSTRIAL EFFLUENT TESTING
Online with LIMS (OWL)
Tarmac testing
Other services
Sample containers
Hazardous waste assessment
Dedicated client manager: We will assign dedicated client manager so that clients can be sure of being kept up to date on the progress of their projects.
Our OWL tool allows 24-hr access to real-time results and all your previous reports, whenever you want.
We offer delivery of sample containers and collection of samples using in-house drivers and external courier partners.
We offer re-use and disposal suites for road and pavement samples, whether surface samples or cores.
Using our Minimum Haswaste suite or your contaminants-of-concern suite we can complete a hazardous waste assessment in line with current Environment Agency guidelines.
Groundwater and surface water testing
Generic or site-specific assessment criteria (GAC): We can provide Excel reports that highlight any results that exceed clients’ requested assessment criteria.
Soil and waste acceptance criteria (WAC) testing
Collection and sample containers: We offer same- and next-day delivery of sample containers. Samples can be collected from sites or offices.
Fast and reliable reporting
More than 70% of our projects are scheduled on a five-working-day turnaround or faster.
Asbestos testing (identification and quantification)
We report all positive asbestos results as soon as we have them, giving you the opportunity to schedule any additional asbestos testing while any other analysis is under way.
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.
Contact ask@envlab.co.uk 0161 368 4921 www.envlab.co.uk
UKAS
PROFICIENCY TESTING
1247
June / July 2019
7
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
8
Magazine
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.
Who is it for? 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.
Why attend? •
Get CPD hours
•
Learn about developments in the world of health and safety
•
Jeremy Mitchell, Callidus Health & Safety Accident Investigation
•
Steve Everton, Jacobs How far is “So far as is reasonably practicable” when working at height during trial pitting?
•
Richard Voke, Ashfords LLP Challenges of HSE investigation
•
Roseanna Bloxham, RSK Environment Lego Workshop: Health and safety awareness in the field
•
Chris Langer, CIRAS Mindfulness in the workplace
CPD This is a continuing professional development (CPD) event and all attending delegates can receive a certificate of attendance following the conference.
Ticket Prices • •
•
New approaches and better ways to manage health and safety Practical workshops offered in mindfulness and H&S risks during intrusive investigations Network with a wide range of professionals from the geotechnical and geoenvironmental sector
Speakers include: •
Adam Latimer, Operations Director, Ian Farmer Associates Chair
•
Quentin Emery, OCAID Ryder Marsh Encouraging positive safety behaviours in your workforce
•
Gerwyn Leigh, RSK Safe Ground Service avoidance and geophysical techniques
£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.
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
June / July 2019
9
Figure 1 – Typical example of a machine excavated trial pit where the pit is logged from samples only
Trial Pitting – Still Fit for Purpose? “ T
rial pitting and trial They permit examination of Trial pitting trenching have both horizontal and vertical long been a popular faces exposed as the pit is and trenching is investigation tool within commonly undertaken advanced and also enable the geotechnical and geothe collection of a wide using a machine environmental industry. variety of sample sizes and excavator, whether this Trial pits and trial trenches types. be a backhoe excavator are commonly specified in Trial pitting and trenching both geotechnical and geoor a tracked 360 is commonly undertaken environmental investigations machine. using a machine and are often a preferred excavator, whether this investigative method to enable be a backhoe excavator or a tracked 360 a rapid check of the condition of the ground. machine. For shallower excavations, or
10
Magazine
where trenches are required to provide more detailed interpretation of the stratigraphy or underground service identification and mapping, these are often undertaken by hand with or without machine assistance. Vac-Ex technology has also been used by the industry to excavate trial pits and trenches. Trial pitting is seen as an economically advantageous investigation tool which enables a fair spread of exploratory points to be undertaken within a typical working day. In addition, trial pitting facilitates a wide variety of in-situ tests, for example Hand Shear Vanes, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests, Plate Load tests and Infiltration tests in accordance with Building Research Establishment (BRE) Digest 365 Publication (2016).
preparation, excavation, sampling, logging and backfilling must be planned and a suitable and sufficient site-specific risk assessment made, contributing then to a method statement. However, consider this: with the Work at Height Regulations (2005), any excavation which has the potential for a person to fall is classed as working from height and, therefore, requires measures to be put in place in accordance with a specified hierarchy (while considering “SFARP”) to comply. Whilst injury can be caused from a fall from any height, a trial pit which is excavated to depths often in excess of 3m can pose a significant risk of injury should an operative fall into the excavation.
Additionally, the Construction Design and Management With a better awareness of All trial pitting (CDM) Regulations health and safety risk within (2015) were amended activities including our industry over the past and now identify ground site preparation, decade or so should we not, investigation as an integral excavation, sampling, however, ask the question part of the construction whether trial pitting is still logging and backfilling activities. Trial pitting as an fit for purpose and therefore must be planned and a activity is covered under should we strive for an Regulation 22 (Part 2) which suitable and sufficient alternative method? states that “Suitable and site-specific risk sufficient steps must be Health & Safety law often assessment made... taken to prevent any person, uses the term, “so far as work equipment, or any is reasonably practicable accumulation of material from falling into any (SFARP)” forming the basis of any riskexcavation”. based activity and as such must be used as
“
a decision tool on the risk against the cost and availability of technology to control it. The HSE, in investigation and prosecution, make a computation in which the quantum of risk is placed on one scale and compared with the sacrifice involved in the measures necessary for averting the risk (whether in money, time or trouble) on the other scale. The legal test would be that measures which are disproportionate (or grossly disproportionate) would not be SFARP.
Furthermore, Regulation 22 (Part 1) of the CDM Regulation states that “All practicable steps must be taken to prevent danger to any person, including, where necessary, the provision of supports or battering, to ensure that; no excavation or part of an excavation collapses; no material forming the walls or roof of, or adjacent to, any excavation is dislodged or falls; and no person is buried or trapped in an excavation by material which is dislodged or falls”.
All trial pitting activities including site
Therefore, all excavations require an
June / July 2019
11
Figure 2 - An example of a safe working zone for mechanical excavation using a 3CX or 360 machine
assessment to be made of the stability of the excavation prior to commencing the dig and during the dig. These risk assessments should consider factors such as influence of the excavation method, ground conditions, buried services, obstructions, groundwater level, water strikes, contamination etc. An initial risk assessment can be produced to reflect the general approach but inevitably the trial pitting supervisor/logger will need to carry out dynamic, sometimes called “point of work�, risk assessments and where these necessitate or identify significant changes to the risk or methodology it should be documented. However, as trial pitting work is often undertaken by graduates or technicians, can employers be sure that these individuals possess the required knowledge, training and experience to meet sufficient competency requirements or have the ability to make these assessments and informed decisions ?
12
Magazine
When detailed logging (i.e. service identification, detailed fabric logging, scan lines or assessment of slip planes) is required, due consideration should be taken to the necessity of entering the trial pit/trench. Where the designer determines that entry is essential, the Contractor must ensure that the excavations are sufficiently shored or the excavation sides battered back or benched to reduce the height of exposed material and potential collapse. Due consideration should also be taken by the Client to allow sufficient time and resources (money) to develop this safe system of work, to carry out any additional training requirements and for the actual work. In addition, these type of trial pits should be located to provide sufficient working room for the plant which will be required for the installation and maintenance of the support system and spoil. As these types of works may be of a longer duration than typical trial pits, physical barriers such as fencing may be required which adds additional costs and time.
work, should be mandatory for all excavations. However, the main advantage of trial pitting is to provide a quick and easy way to view the stratigraphy and close up inspection of the pit is necessary to obtain the desired results. Judgements on the required controls under the Work at Height regulations are however to be determined “SFARP”. The current AGS Guidance on safe excavation of trial pits suggests a number of control measures such as the supervisor/logger should approach and stand at the opposite narrow end of the open pit to the machine, , arisings should be placed a minimum of one metre from the pit edge, and other controls. However, the industry, and associated industries who undertake not dissimilar construction activities, can still not agree on the approach to controlling the risk of working at height when trial pitting or even whether it is a significant risk in the first place.
When trial pits are part of a more typical ground investigation and require standard logging, in-situ testing and sampling the designer and contractor The principal arguments for should consider carefully The principal the requirement to approach whether any entry is required arguments for open pits is to observe the whatever the depth. The the requirement to formation of the ground AGS promotes an approach approach open pits is to and groundwater in situ, which does not require entry accurately measure stratum and therefore, the risk of observe the formation boundaries, water strikes, injury through collapse and of the ground and final depth and to take subsequent burial is reduced. groundwater in situ, photographs. The industry However, this does not accurately measure could for example reeliminate totally the risk of evaluate the necessity for stratum boundaries, working at height. photographs and the way water strikes, final With trial pitting seen as a they are taken, and whether depth and to take relatively quick and costthey are used as anything photographs. effective method of ground else but proof the pit was investigation, the use of edge dug. The question could also protection and trench support can be asked as to ‘how accurate is accurate’ with be viewed as unrealistically costly and time respect to depths and is there a safer way to consuming to install. Compliance with the obtain this information. Some excavators can hierarchy of controls within the Work at Height now determine depth of dig whilst excavating regulations might suggest to some employers and perhaps providing depth markers on the that installation of edge protection or a suitable excavator arm may be another alternative. fall arrest system or other safe system of Employers must also consider the risk of
“
June / July 2019
13
injury from contact with plant and machinery. It is essential that the supervisor maintains good communication (both verbally and using agreed hand signals) with the machine operator at all times. Supervisors should be aware of the danger areas (red and amber zones) around the excavation and always stand in the yellow zone to maintain a clear line of sight.
“
do occur in the wider construction industry, generally as a consequence of a collapse of the excavation which has been open for some length of time. As an industry we are all aware of the fatality to a Geologist in September 2008, however, statistics of injuries, accidents or near misses are not widely known and are often only communicated internally with site staff and not shared to the wider ground investigation As an industry community. we must strive to
It is not uncommon that the supervisor (often a graduate continually improve the As an industry we must and in some cases with limited years of experience) strive to continually improve safety culture within will take on responsibilities the safety culture within ground investigation for both the H&S and the ground investigation and and trial pitting offers technical goals of the trial pit trial pitting offers us all us all a chance to either investigation. In effect, they a chance to either look look at current and take on a role of supervisor, at current and future logger and banksman. In innovations to reduce future innovations to the construction industry, the risk or find safer reduce the risk or find banksmen are operatives alternatives. There is a safer alternatives. specifically trained to direct concern that if the industry vehicle movement on or around does not obtain consensus site. How common is it that graduates or that others may develop approaches which even experienced engineers are specifically the industry may not find palatable both trained in the role of a Banksman (or vehicle practically and commercially. marshal), but are expected to fulfil such a role The current AGS document looks to provide when directing plant and machinery around practical guidance on trial pitting considering site. Therefore, the employer should provide the current H&S guidance available, however, training to allow the individual to carry out this the Designer always has the choice to replace role. This could be delivered through a formal trial pits with boreholes or dynamic sampling Banksman course or might be better delivered as task specific in-house training which should holes which would, in many cases, provide similar design data. include all aspects of safe trial pitting to help create competent people who can dynamically The question remains, is trial pitting fit for risk assess excavations. purpose and the AGS would welcome views But is trial pitting really or inherently a highrisk activity? Excavations are typically left open for only a very limited length of time and are backfilled as soon as the pit is completed in comparison to most construction industry excavations. In addition, there are no clear statistics from the HSE on injuries or fatalities from falls associated with trial pitting. These
14
Magazine
from the industry and will be sending out a short questionnaire to determine current industry practice and thoughts. Article contributed by AGS health & Safety Working Group – Principal Authors - Adam Latimer, Ian Farmer Associates; Steve Everton, Jacobs and Julian Lovell, Equipe Group
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
Learn in detail how to keep yourself and your on-site operatives safe in the field
IOSH Avoiding Danger from Underground Services - £175 + VAT
In accordance with the requirements and guidance set out within HSG47
IOSH Working Safely (on Geotechnical Sites) - £175 + VAT
A foundation to site safety for all personnel involved in the drilling and geotechnical industry
Other Health and Safety Courses Delivered in partnership with EB Safety Soltuions & RPA Safety Services
MARGI - Managing & working with Asbestos Risk in Ground Investigation - £225 + VAT Comprehensive guidance to deal with asbestos in a GI environment, including CAR 2012
Other Geotechnical Courses
Soil Description Workshop - £275 + VAT
Delivered by UK's leading Soil & Rock Description expert - Prof. David Norbury
Rock Description Workshop - £275 + VAT
Delivered by UK's leading Soil & Rock Description expert - Prof. David Norbury
Geotechnical Foundation Design - £250 + VAT
Comprehensive overview for geotechnical practitioners and engineers
Slope Stability Design - £250 + VAT
Comprehensive overview for geotechnical practitioners and engineers
June / July 2019
15
Asbestos Risk The need for practical industry guidance for ground investigation
T
Photo credit: S M Associates
construction and demolition materials is available, there remains a need for more specific guidance when undertaking intrusive site investigations.
he UK Construction sector has The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR known for some time about the 2012), together with its associated Approved risks to their workers and others of Code of Practice (ACOP) and guidance notes, exposure to asbestos at work. Refurbishment, represent a comprehensive set of guidance maintenance, demolition or any other work covering duties to manage asbestos and work on any buildings built pre-2000 is highly likely which disturbs or is likely to disturb asbestos. to encounter asbestos in one or more of its However, as the legislation was principally many forms as a construction material. More produced for asbestos risk in buildings it does than 3000 products, including not adequately address how numerous constructionthe guidance should be related items, have been ...as the legislation interpreted where asbestos, found to have contained was principally or Asbestos Containing asbestos. The list is growing produced for asbestos Materials (ACMs) are as more and more of those risk in buildings it does encountered during the products are identified and not adequately address normal course of a Ground tested. Investigation (GI). ACMs how the guidance The recent British Drilling in soil are unlikely to be should be interpreted Association opinion piece in a recognisable ‘original [...] during the normal in the June 2019 issue of use’ form, but are likely GeoDrilling highlighted that course of a Ground to be present in a broken, although some good guidance damaged or degraded Investigation... on asbestos in soil and condition. Assessing
“
16
Magazine
asbestos risk in buildings can be a systematic Generally accepted industry practice is to process; visual and analytical management carry out a desk study to inform the design surveys of a building can readily locate and for any subsequent works and development identify original form ACMs. Refurbishment of a suitable and sufficient risk assessment. and demolition surveys Where the desk study provides can confirm whether ACMs evidence to indicate Ground have been removed before asbestos (including type Investigation work further work is carried and condition) is likely to can involve excavating out. Unfortunately, such be present, the risk can be or drilling through readily accessible survey assessed, and appropriate information may not be control measures put Made Ground formed available or may be of limited in place before work by human activity use when planning a ground commences. Where a which may include the investigation. desk study produces burial of building debris limited information that Managing the risks containing ACMs. asbestos is likely to be associated with uncovering encountered, or where the asbestos during invasive GI effectively becomes part GI work is a critical industry issue – the of the desk study for the main works, the risks health risks associated with even minimal associated if asbestos is encountered, become exposure to air-borne asbestos fibres is well significantly increased. documented. Current legislation provides a control framework based upon the likely The problem comes when we think about concentrations of asbestos fibres and the what happens to those asbestos containing positive identification and condition of products when buildings have been asbestos; however, this framework is often demolished and the materials discarded or difficult to apply in the ground investigation buried on site. Given the historical nature of context. so much of the Made Ground we encounter, such information is often simply not there. Ground Investigation work can involve Although much of the asbestos in soil is widely excavating or drilling through Made Ground dispersed within the soil matrix, a significant formed by human activity which may include risk remains that degraded and damaged the burial of building debris containing ACMs. ACMs might be encountered during a normal Whilst CAR 2012 requires duty holders to GI. The standard procedure is to stop and refer effectively manage asbestos in buildings and the situation back to the consulting engineer, the Construction (Design and Management) the contract manager, the client or perhaps all Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) requires duty three for further instructions. Giving further holders to pass on relevant information to instruction is often impossible. Invariably, the those who might be asked to work with such investigation is simply stopped because the materials, sometimes ACMs and other sources decision maker is not present on-site. Any of asbestos are encountered by chance. In delay not only leads to increased costs for the these circumstances, contractors may not client but may also compromise the entire GI have carried out a risk assessment to evaluate itself. the associated hazards, risks and control measures and are therefore at a higher risk of Realistically, what can be done to avoid unsafe contact with asbestos fibres. this situation in the future? What if the site
“
ď Ž
June / July 2019
17
workers including drillers, encountered. Delegates would What if officetechnicians and engineers also need to learn about have sufficient training, procedures to safely sample, based supervisors, knowledge and experience managers and directors contain, label and transport to decide whether the work have received the same materials suspected of constitutes Non-Licensed containing asbestos, training, giving them Work? What if they could as well as emergency the necessary skills to independently determine if and decontamination it was safe to continue, and write an asbestos Risk procedures. immediately identify what Assessment and Plan of Within the UK GI industry, procedures need to be put in Work... there is a need for place, how to safely sample specific, practical and the suspect material, how to pragmatic training and guidance regarding decontaminate equipment and themselves? safely managing, planning and working What if office-based supervisors, managers where asbestos has been or is likely to be and directors have received the same training, encountered. The new Managing and working giving them the necessary skills to write an with Asbestos Risk in Ground Investigation asbestos Risk Assessment and Plan of Work, (MARGI) course has been developed as well as giving them the confidence to trust by industry training experts Equipe, in in the decision making process of their site partnership with health and safety experts staff? EB Safety Solutions and RPA Safety Services. Any such training would need to cover all Developed with help and guidance from the aspects of an asbestos awareness course but HSE, the course aims to provide the necessary would need to be tailored specifically for the training and guidance to navigate delegates Ground Investigation industry. It would need through asbestos legislation, whilst outlining to provide procedures and protocols for Nona systematic approach for GI work where Licensed Work in a GI context. Such training asbestos is encountered, so that it can be should equip delegates with the practical completed in a safe, practical and compliant knowledge and understanding of how to manner. The course examines the current complete a suitable and sufficient asbestos legislative framework and provides an industry risk assessment and to plan and safely perspective on situations and conditions manage the works in which asbestos may be where sampling and testing involving asbestos
“
18
Magazine
can be safely carried out or when works should stop and be re-assessed. The MARGI course has been collaboratively developed, after extensive consultation with key stakeholders within the UK GI sector, to provide definitive industry guidance on the safe investigation of land contaminated, or potentially contaminated with, asbestos and ACMs. The course is aimed at planners, designers, managers, supervisors and on-site operatives and engineers who are likely to encounter and work with asbestos in soil as part of a ground investigation. There are a number of asbestos courses in the market however they tend to be generic in content or worse, cater for other disciplines within the construction industry such as those carrying out refurbishment of existing buildings or repair work. The MARGI course has been designed for the ground investigation industry and includes an asbestos awareness section which deals specifically with how ACMs might appear in soils as well as where they might be found in buildings. The course acknowledges the unique and specific circumstances regarding potential contact with asbestos in the geotechnical industry. Key elements of the course include: An overview of legislation, the Risk Assessment and Plan of Work, Awareness for Ground Investigation workers, Non Licensed Work together with
practicals, protocols and a final assessment. to determine in a measurable way that delegates have gained appropriate knowledge, information and undergone sufficient training. It is hoped that the new MARGI course can provide contractors with the means to continue working safely in appropriate situations, whilst granting clients peace of mind that if asbestos is encountered, protocols are in place to allow this to happen. Interested in Equipe Training’s new MARGI course but would like more details? Equipe will be offering “30-Minute Training Tasters” at Geotechnica 2019, held at the Warwickshire Event Centre on 10th & 11th July 2019. The Training Tasters will include the MARGI course, amongst a number of Equipe’s other courses. This Training Taster will provide a full overview of course content and is limited to 15 attendees per session. For more information or to register to visit Geotechnica and attend a Taster session, please visit www.geotechnica.co.uk
Article contributed by Richard Betts Director, EB Safety Solutions Keith Spires Operations Director, Equipe Group
June / July 2019
19
AGS Review and Position Statement:
COVER SYSTEMS FOR LAND REGENERATION Thickness Design of Cover Systems for Contaminated Land: BRE/AGS/NHBC: 2004
S
tarting in 2017, the AGS Contaminated Land Working Group (AGS CLWG) undertook a review of the 2004 BRE/ AGS cover systems document to determine: a) if it was still fit for purpose given current regulatory practice and guidance, b) what awareness of it there was within the industry and with regulators, c) how much it was being used and accepted by regulators as evidence, d) what was current general practice, e) if the document and software required updating, f) if it might be applicable or adaptable for sites with trace levels of asbestos. As part of this review, several questionnaires were forwarded to regulators and private industry practitioners and awareness was raised at several industry events as well as within the various AGS working groups. In conclusion the results of this review can be summarised as follows: The document is still considered technically fit for purpose, though the fact that it specifically excludes considerations of the emplacement of break layers and water table movements somewhat limits its applicability under current practice at present. That it has not been updated or reviewed since it was published in 2004, and whilst still available is quite expensive, also probably somewhat limits its
20
Magazine
use by regulators or practitioners. The document has suffered from a general change in practice since it was first published and perhaps more importantly a change in the way waste is currently defined and perceived in practice during developments. This is (in part) due to regulatory waste changes and interpretations as well as changes in CDM. This is seen as being two-fold in practice, firstly in that the placement of materials from off-site as cover can now potentially be considered a de-facto waste action. Secondly, the technical mixing of potentially contaminated materials in situ with uncontaminated material is contraindicated by current guidance, being seen as potentially “diluting� the contaminants in the underlying materials. This paradox, since the underlying material is probably not technically a waste per se, has certainly in part limited the uptake of this methodology by both practitioners and regulators. In addition, the responses clearly indicated that many practitioners and regulators were unaware of this document and its potential uses, possibly due to institutional loss of knowledge and experience over time since publication, as well as changes in general contaminated land and waste practice. In addition, it would appear that not many practitioners were presenting such evidence or systems on behalf of clients or developers, probably for essentially the same reasons.
It was noted in the responses that many (especially the general regulatory trend regulators now default to generic requirements towards the use of generic depths and break for cover systems. The usual default being layers) probably do not justify the associated 600mm or “Two Spades depth” and usually costs of doing so at this time. overlying a break layer. This later element In conclusion, the basic science is still was seen by most regulators and some considered very sound, and the document practitioners as being more effective, acceptable and risk averse in that a break layer would benefit from a wider awareness in the community and amongst regulators were it provides added security, i.e. by providing an not for the tendency towards the more risk obvious pathway linkage break. Such actions averse inclusion of break layers and standard also avoid having to consider potential mixing depths. This has perhaps been issues and therefore complies a quite reasonable response more justifiably with current There remains to changes in regulatory contaminated land exposure frameworks since the a potential for models, remediation practice document and software the methodology to and guidance by “removing” were first produced in 2004 a pathway rather than just be resurrected and and also probably reflect a mitigating it. updated for application general loss of institutional in solid contaminants... knowledge regarding the Unfortunately, this trend may not be truly more sustainable methodology over time. or cost effective as the associated There remains a potential for the methodology costs and materials used in providing break layers are not always going to be as sustainable to be resurrected and updated for application in solid contaminants such as trace asbestos as not doing so or accepting lesser depths of in soils, though sadly the supporting science is cover. Practitioners may therefore logically not currently available to justify such works in be taking this lead from the regulators and other than a speculative way. therefore not considering using the document and methodology on behalf of their clients, On this basis the position of the AGS is that even if they are aware of it. This is because the updating of this document is probably not associated costs of justification and arguing sustainable or cost effective at present, but the case in a scientific and robust manner may may be so in the future if: be more than simply accepting emplacement 1. Regulatory attitudes change, of a break layer and provision of the full cover depth required by the regulator. 2. Practitioners feel it still has utility in certain circumstances, On the basis of the above findings, it is 3. It has greater awareness within the considered that current policy and lack community, of awareness make this a rarely used 4. It can be adapted to meet additional and methodology in current practice. The scientifically justifiable uses. document and software could be updated
“
relatively easily to make them more user friendly as the general underlying science is still considered current and relevant. However, the general lack of enthusiasm noted for its use in light of the issues highlighted above
Article contributed by AGS Contaminated Land Working Group
June / July 2019
21
Q & A with...
Geraint Williams What or who inspired you to join the geotechnical industry?
Job Title: Associate Company: ALS Brief Biography: Geraint has over 20 years’ professional experience and is technical lead for his company. He is a member of the AGS contaminated land and laboratories working group. He serves on the Executive Committee of the Society of Brownfield Risk Assessment (SoBRA) and participates in specialist groups including SoBRA’s vapour intrusion subgroup as well as chairing SoBRA’s Technical Panel. Geraint also serves on EH/4, the British Standards committee on soil quality and is chair of a drafting panel for a new standard on sampling soil for determination of volatile organic compounds.
22
Magazine
My father inspired me to be involved in our industry. I remember travelling to nearby Wirral where he pointed out interesting geological features including the ‘Red Rocks’ at Hoylake.
What does a typical day entail? I spend lots of time supporting my teams, through technical review, dealing with clients’ challenges and troubleshooting when issues inevitably arise. Training and mentoring colleagues is important and also the most rewarding aspect of my job.
Are there any projects which you’re particularly proud to have been a part of? I spent the formative years of my career carrying out intrusive investigation work for McAlpine on a major gas pipeline project in the North West which was an excellent grounding for anyone starting out in our industry. I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in the largest land
contamination projects in the UK. I’ve been involved in projects in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria. I was in Iraq recently training those who are managing the investigation and remediation of sites that experienced widespread destruction from sabotage and looting by Islamic State. The impacts of war in eastern Mosul are so extensive that much of the old city has essentially been destroyed. It is a privilege to be part of reconstruction efforts in conflict affected areas of the world.
What are the most challenging aspects of your role? Being away from my family – I spent a month in West Africa when my daughter was first born. She is now eight so probably won’t notice if I spent six months away from home!
What AGS Working Groups are you a Member
groups co-ordinating their efforts to each have input into what will become pragmatic guidance.
Why do you feel the AGS is important to the industry?
of and what are your current focuses?
promoting best practice. I most enjoy the technical aspects of our meetings and the collaborative way we work Whist I would together to like to be able to overcome help with everything, common I have learnt the hard issues and challenges.
I’m a member of the Contaminated Land Working Group – we have recently produced way that sometimes practitioner we have to say no. What do guidance you find on waste beneficial classification about being an AGS for soils, description of Member? anthropogenic materials and environmental sampling. The AGS is the only organisation representing What do you enjoy most both the interests of about being an AGS the geotechnical and Member? geoenvironmental sectors. I genuinely look forward to It’s beneficial how different every meeting as it provides working groups come together an opportunity to discuss to tackle issues – asbestos is a matters that directly affect good example of Contaminated our industry. It’s a forum Land, Labs and Safety Working for knowledge sharing and
“
AGS provides its members with a real voice within industry – we are active on the National Brownfield Forum, we are represented on the Phase 2 Category 4 Screening Level Project and are involved in updating the Guiding Principles; our membership includes the Environment Agency and the National House Building Council. We probably don’t appreciate how respected and influential the AGS actually is. I suspect this will only increase as focus is shifting more towards industry-led guidance.
What changes would you like to see implemented in the geotechnical industry? Like most of us, I’d like to see government implement a truly brownfield first policy. Our sector is worth £1 billion a year and employs almost 10,000 people. The housing crisis is one of the UK’s greatest challenges and brownfield development is key to solving it. No surprise that AGS is at the forefront of highlighting these challenges and making positive steps to address them. If you haven’t seen it, read the article ‘Unlocking complex brownfield sites’ in a previous edition of this magazine.
June / July 2019
23
24
Magazine
AGS Working Group Focus
Contaminated Land Overview 2. AGS Guidelines 4. Next CLWG Meeting to Good Practice in Geoenvironmental Ground In their next meeting, which is taking place in July, the Investigation
Vivien Dent of RSK, the leader of the Contaminated Land Working Group, has provided an update on the top issues the Contaminated Land Working Group discussed in their recent meeting which took place in May 2019.
1. Updating the AGS Asbestos in Ground Investigation Guidance This document was issued as interim guidance in February 2013. Since this time, there have been several publications and guidance documents published. The guidance is therefore possibly out of date and is being revised. The aim of the guidance is for people to know how to work safely when they encounter asbestos. The AGS Asbestos in Ground Investigation Guidance is currently in final draft and is being peer reviewed by the AGS Contaminated Land WG, along with the AGS Safety WG and AGS Laboratories WG.
An opinion piece by Chris Swainston of Soils Limited on AGS Guidelines to Ground Practice in Geoenvironmental Ground Investigation was featured in the May 2019 issue of the AGS Magazine and can be viewed on the AGS website. The Contaminated Land WG are considering the possibility of creating a ‘road map’ of documents. The AGS aim to promote good practice - as Chris mentioned in his article - if you stacked the relevant documents on top of each other, the guidance alone would probably reach to your waist. As there is so much information out there – how do you know what is relevant? It is important that AGS members know which guidance to follow and where to find the guidance.
3. ERES Code Review A working group has been established to review ERES Codes. The ERES Codes are being reviewed as it is important to have consistent data. For example, so there are not two or more codes for the same determinant.
Contaminated Land Working Group will be looking at the Environment Agency’s online guidance; Land Contamination: Risk Management (LCRM) which is an update to the Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination (CLR11), with the aim of providing feedback to the Environment Agency on behalf of the AGS.
Feedback on issues The Contaminated Land Working Group would like AGS members to feedback to the group about any issues they are struggling with and if there are any issues which they would like to group to investigate. If you do have any issues for the Contaminated Land Working Group to discuss, please email ags@ags. org.uk. If you wish to attend AGS Contaminated Land Working Group meetings, please contact the AGS Secretariat by emailing ags@ags.org.uk.
June / July 2019
25
Standards Update
June 2019
BS 10176
RECENTLY PUBLIS S SUBJECT / TEST S Guidance on characterization of excavated soil and other B materials intended for re-use Soil quality – Guidance on ecotoxicological characterization of B soil & soil materials BRITISH STANDARDS ON SOIL, GROUND S SUBJECT / TEST S Sampling soils for determination of VOCs N
BS5930 Amendment
Ground investigation
STANDARD BS ISO 15176: 2019 BS ISO 15799: 2019
STANDARD
STANDARD
SUBJECT / TEST
ISO 15800 (REVISION)
Human exposure
E
ISO STANDARDS ON SOIL & SITE S S 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)
26
Magazine
SELECTED INTERNATIONAL & EUROPEAN “GE S SUBJECT / TEST S Geotechnical investigation and testing – Sampling of soil, rock B and groundwater – Part 1 – Technical principles
SHED STANDARDS SUPERSEDED/WILL SUPERSEDE BS ISO 15176:2002
STATUS Published
PUBLICATION DATE June 2019
BS ISO 15799:: 2003
Published
March 2019
D & SITE ASSESSMENT - In preparation SUPERSEDED/WILL STATUS SUPERSEDE New standard Draft for Public Comment expected 30 June 2019 Existing standard Awaiting approval from BSI to prepare amendment E ASSESSMENT - In preparation SUPERSEDED/WILL STATUS SUPERSEDE ISO 15800:2003 Final Draft International Standard (FDIS) issued for comment by 12 July 2019 BS ISO 18512:2007 May be revised – decision pending.
New Standard
Final Draft International Standard (FDIS) being prepared BS EN ISO 25177: 2011 FDIS issued for comment by 19 July 2019 EOTECHNICAL” STANDARDS – In preparation SUPERSEDED/WILL STATUS SUPERSEDE BS EN ISO 22475-1:2006 UK comments on Draft International Standard (DIS) submitted to ISO in February 2019
PUBLICATION DATE 2020 2019
PUBLICATION DATE 2019 2020 2020 2020
PUBLICATION DATE 2020
June / July 2019
27
Upcoming Events
AGS Safety Conference Date: Thursday 21st November 2019 Location: National Motorcycle Museum, 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 breakout workshops to allow delegates to participate in more intimate roundtable discussions. Tickets will be priced at ÂŁ145 for AGS Members and ÂŁ215 for Non-Members, and will include catering and refreshments Prices exclude VAT. Full details including speakers will be released in due course. Sponsorship Take advantage of this great opportunity to promote your organisation to an audience of geotechnical & geoenvironmental experts at our Safety Conference. Packages include stand space, your logo promoted across conference materials, the chance to network with delegates, and bespoke elements such as sponsorship of catering and lanyards. 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.
28
Magazine
The UK’s Largest Geotechnical Conference & Exhibition With just under 2 weeks remaining until Geotechnica 2019, the event is shaping up to the biggest Geotechnica ever, with a jam-packed product and service exhibition being complimented by a stellar conference speaker line-up. Speakers at this year’s conference have recently been confirmed and include industry leading specialists such as Professor David Norbury, Dr Derek Egan of Remedy Geotechnics and Dr George Tuckwell of the RSK group. The full Aquaread Geotechnical Conference lineup can be found here. 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 and it is absolutely free to attend as a visitor. For full event details or to register to attend the event for free, please visit the Geotechnica 2019 website: www.geotechnica.co.uk
Why should you be at Geotechnica 2019?
Who will you see at Geotechnica 2019?
·
You can meet representatives from every sector of the industry and most (if not all) of the largest and most influential players. From clients to contractors, laboratories to geophysicists - every corner of the geotechnical community is represented. Expect to see the industry’s brightest and best minds, as well as some excellent product manufacturers and suppliers.
· · ·
C o m m u n i c a t e with industry leading practitioners, academia, suppliers and manufacturers. P r o m o t e your specialist services, latest products and innovations. N e t w o r k with peers, suppliers, manufacturers, new potential clients and customers. L e a r n about different approaches, techniques and what is going on within and around the industry, as well as discovering new business opportunities.
AT T E N D A N C E I S F R E E F O R V I S I TO R S D O N’ T M I S S O U T, B O O K YO U R P L AC E N O W
REGISTER ONLINE TO ATTEND FOR FREE
W W W . G E O T EJune C H/ July N I2019 C A . C 29 O.UK
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: • 30th July - 1st August 2019 - IOSH Safe Supervision of Geotechnical Sites • 16th August 2019 - IOSH Working Safely (on Geotechnical Sites) • 5th September 2019 - IOSH Avoiding Danger from Underground Services Places on these courses can be booked online here, or via contacting Equipe on +44 (0)1295 670990 or info@equipegroup.com
30
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 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.
June / July 2019
31
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
32
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
June / July 2019
33