Events & Courses

Site Investigation - a practical guide

This course comprises eight modules, which can be taken either as standalone courses or will combine to provide a comprehensive course on the process of site investigation – from the initial concept to final reporting. 

Each module is structured to give a PowerPoint-style presentation, which sets the scene for the specific subject, followed by exercises and discussion to develop understanding of the process and the various elements that contribute to successful investigation outcomes.

Course concepts

Ground investigation can be bewildering and challenging. There are a multitude of methods, tests and procedures, which do not always deliver what is expected or of use. This course is devised to provide the facts, so that informed choices can be made to enable efficient and appropriate investigation to be planned and executed. 

In recent times, there have been several new and revised standards. these will be used and discussed to guide individuals thorough the sometimes bewildering number of Eurocodes British Standards and Codes of Practice that have been published. 

The courses are intended to be a practical guide, sharing experience and knowledge on the processes used to conduct investigations. The day will be split between lecture-style presentations and group exercises and discussions. Real site information will be the basis of exercises building from planning through to execution and reporting. Each session will be supported with additional documentation and references. Attendees are encouraged to bring their experiences to the group and will be given additional exercises to be completed in their own time. Between sessions, a forum will be available for delegates to communicate and the facilitator to correspond with the group. 

During each session, the presenter will bring his own practical experiences to the discussion to provide real examples of some of the techniques – both good and bad – which may be encountered.

Guest speakers and experts in specific subject areas will be invited to contribute on some of the modules.

Each session is focused on a particular element of the site investigation process.

Who should attend

Course Module

1. Desk study and planning: In Person – 9.45am to 5pm

2. Intrusive methods of investigation: Virtual – 10am to 4pm

3. Insitu testing: Virtual – 10am to 4pm

4. Instrumentation and monitoring: Virtual – 10am to 4pm

5. Geotechnical laboratory testing: Virtual – 10am to 4pm

6. Geotechnical logs and logging: Virtual – 10am to 4pm

7. The geotechnical model and reporting: Virtual – 10am to 4pm

8. Geotechnical risk and risk management: In Person – 9.45am to 5pm

Speaker

Peter Reading 

Peter has some 45 years of experience in the Geotechnical Industry predominantly within the Site Investigation sector. This experience is reinforced with academic qualifications and membership of geotechnical bodies. He is a Chartered Geologist and a Chartered Scientist and is a UK Registered Ground Engineering Adviser. He has held various positions from engineer to Director. This has given him a wealth of practical experience, being involved in numerous diverse engineering projects and producing design data both in the field and laboratory as well as designing foundations and ground engineering solutions for projects across the UK. 

Peter has delivered lectures to both undergraduates and post graduate students at both Brunel University and the University of Portsmouth where he is currently a Visiting Reader. 

Peter has been actively involved in a number of industry initiatives aimed at improving knowledge and practice in the geotechnical industry; he is a co-opted member of the executive committee of the BGA. As an independent specialist, he is part of an AGS Site Investigation Working Group to report and guide on the state of geotechnical engineering in the UK.

Time & Location

Modules 1 & 8 

These modules will take place in person at Burlington House, Piccadilly, W1J 0BG. The timings will be 9.45am to 5pm, and lunch and refreshments will be provided on both days.

These modules will take place virtually via Zoom. The timings are 10am to 4pm. These sessions will be recorded.

Registration

Places on this course are limited due to the interactive nature of the modules. Registration will close 24 hours before the first event takes place. 

Concessions