Geophysical surveys for site investigation

Missed the webinar? Watch again below.

Tuesday, 7 September, 12:30–13:15 BST

When used correctly, geophysical surveys can be important and useful components of the site investigation toolbox. Geophysical surveys can provide clients with a cost-effective alternative – or, preferably, complementary service to – traditional intrusive methods of investigation. From identification of otherwise unknown targets through to confirmation and mapping of know geological horizons, there is often a positive outcome for a well-designed and well-executed survey.

However, the range of geophysical services, and their limitations, is often not fully understood by clients. Unfortunately, inappropriate techniques can be utilised, or appropriate techniques incorrectly deployed, when the communication between client and practitioner is unclear. Where, how and by whom a survey is undertaken can have a significant impact on the outcome.

In this webinar, we will seek to provide an overview of when geophysical surveys should be best scheduled within a project timeline and key factors that clients should consider when commissioning geophysical surveys. Whether the survey is for the identification of buried services, to locate potential sinkholes or to map the extent of former foundations, there are some common best practice principals that all survey proposals should follow. Clients that are able to educate themselves on some of the basic principles, or to understand where to look for additional information, are much more likely to use geophysical surveys successfully in their projects.

Tim Grossey MSc FGS CGeol is the director responsible for geophysics in RSK Geosciences. Tim is a Chartered Geologist who has specialised in near-surface geophysical surveys throughout his career. He has more than 20 years’ combined postgraduate and commercial experience in the ground investigation industry and has worked for a range of clients and on projects in the UK and abroad. These have included large critical infrastructure projects for commercial and housing developers, local authorities and consulting engineers. Tim has sat on the committee of the Near Surface Geophysics Group, a specialist interest group of the Geological Society, since 2010.