Events & Courses

A geological hazard (geohazard) is the consequence of an adverse combination of geological processes and ground conditions, sometimes precipitated by anthropogenic activity. The term implies that the event is unexpected and likely to cause significant loss or harm. To understand geohazards and mitigate their effects, expertise is required in the key areas of engineering geology, hydrogeology, geotechnical engineering, risk management, communication and planning, supported by appropriate specialist knowledge of subjects such as seismology and volcanology. There is a temptation for geoscientists involved in geohazards to get too focused on the ‘science’ and lose sight of the purpose of the work, which is to facilitate the effective management and mitigation of the consequences of geohazards within society.

The study and assessment of geohazards into the wider social context, helping the engineering geologist to better communicate the issues concerning geohazards in the UK to the client and the wider public.

Course overview

This course is ideal for geoscientists who are geoengineers, geotechnical experts or those who work in contaminated land. It is also useful for those who are in parallel sectors.

This course series comprises of fifteen modules, providing a comprehensive understanding of various Geological hazards, typically UK hazards. Modules can be booked individually or as a full programme package.

Each module is structured to give a presentation which sets the scene for the specific hazard, followed by discussion to develop understanding of the monitoring and the various elements which contribute to possible mitigation.

Each module is focused on a particular Geohazard.

Course module

Module 10. Risks of Brownfield Land 

Geology can be a source of natural or anthropogenic contamination, as well as a pathway or barrier to contaminant migration and, as groundwater, a receptor in its own right.  This course will provide an overview of geological sources of contamination across the British Isles.  Such contamination needs to be considered in evaluating proposed development sites as well as protecting existing uses from harm or pollution.  

Heavy metals at levels that can exceed soil screening levels are encountered in clays of several periods.  Such natural contaminants are often characterised by low bioavailability.  Mineralised areas, whether historically mined or not, are characterised by very high levels of metals that may require remediation despite their usually low bioavailability.

Decomposition of natural materials and waste can release biogenic methane that can migrate and ignite.  Ignition of slower release of geogenic methane from specific formations has been associated with several tragic accidents.  Inhalation of naturally released carcinogenic radon gas is linked to over 1000 deaths per year.  Carbon dioxide and other hazardous ground gases are also associated with specific formations.

Anthropogenic sources of contamination are associated with historic land uses, waste disposal, spread of made ground, accidents and military activities.

This lecture has been proposed by Paul even though the topic was omitted from Engineering Geology Special Publication Volume 29.  

Speaker

Paul Nathanail

Paul Nathanail is a Chartered Geologist and Specialist in Land Condition. He is the Technical Director of Contamination Assessment and Remediation of GHD, a global services company and is the current chair of the National Brownfield Forum.  His 2009 Glossop lecture is a good reference to support this lecture in the absence of a chapter in EGSP 29.

Registration

Registration will close 24 hours before the session takes place.

Concessionary Rates & Student Registration

We offer students a generous discount, please verify your student status by either registering with your student email address, or upload a photograph of your student identification/ acceptance letter.

The society offers a limited number of concessionary rates for those in financial hardship. Please contact [email protected] (please note you may be required to provide details/evidence to support your application for this rate).

Book the full course series

Book all 15 modules as a package with the Full Course option and enjoy a discount.

Book the full course series plus Special Publication

Book all 15 modules as a package plus Special Publication Geological Hazards in the UK: Their Occurrence, Monitoring and Mitigation by registering for the Full Course option and selecting the book package on the registration form.

Fellow	£60
Non Fellow	£80
Student	£12

We can offer bespoke discounts on group registrations of 5 or more. Please email [email protected] to enquire.

Alternatively, if you book all 15 modules it includes a discount.

Venue

These courses will be held virtually over Zoom between 16.00 GMT and will run until approximately 17.30 GMT depending on audience participation.

Delegates will receive joining instructions the day before they take place.

Register now