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 site investigation.

Course Overview

Site 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 site investigation  to be planned and executed. 

In recent times there has been a number of 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 which have been published. 

The courses are intended as 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. 

It is intended that to supplement the course field trips may be offered to include visits to sites, tour a laboratory and a plant yard. The nature and location of these trips will be dependent on availability at the time of the course. Attendance at these additional activities will be optional. 

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

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

Course Module

5. Geotechnical laboratory testing (Virtual)

From water content to effective stress looking at test methods and results and the practical aspect of samples and sample quality.

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

This module will take place virtually via Zoom.

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