p eng geol guidelines

8/9/2019 P Eng Geol Guidelines

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Guidelines for Professional Engineering Geologists

Version 1.00 (20 August 2014)

Guidelines for Engineering Geologists

Contents

Guidelines for Engineering Geologists .......................................................................................... 1

Purpose of guidelines ............................................................................................................. 1

Practice area definition .......................................................................................................... 2

Engineering Geological Problems .......................................................................................... 2

Engineering Geological Activities ........................................................................................... 2

Guidelines for Engineering Geology .............................................................................................. 3

Professional Engineering Geology - Element 1 ............................................................................. 3







Professional Engineering Geology - Element 8 ........................................................................... 10

Professional Engineering Geology - Element 9 ........................................................................... 11

Professional Engineering Geology - Element 10 ........................................................................ 12



Purpose of guidelines

The purpose of these guidelines is to provide applicants with suggestions on the type of

evidence that is considered to demonstrate that they meet the competence standard. These

suggestions are not exhaustive nor are they definitive – the assessment panel, which is theonly entity with access to all of the applicant’s evidence, is required to make a judgement on

the applicant’s competence.

All competence assessments are made in the applicant’s practice area (definition below).

The applicant is asked to provide a brief description of his or her practice area – which is

effectively the professional engineering geological activities they perform. This description

will guide the assessment panel when it assesses the evidence submitted. Assessment

panels are instructed to amend the applicant's practice area description if the panel finds a

mismatch. Hence applicants are asked to consider very carefully their practice area when

describing what they do.


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Practice area definition

The practice area of an engineering geologist is defined as:

practice area means an engineering geologist’s area of practice, as determined by—

(a) the area within which he or she has engineering geological knowledge and

skills; and

(b) the nature of his or her professional engineering geological activities.

Engineering Geological Problems

Complex engineering geological problems means problems that cannot be recognised,

understood or resolved without in-depth engineering geological knowledge and having some

or all of the following characteristics:

Involve wide-ranging or conflicting engineering and engineering geological and other

issues

Are not readily recognised, understood or solved and require originality in analysis

Involve a wide range of issues, that might be in an unfamiliar setting Are outside those problems whose resolution are encompassed by guidelines,

standards and codes of practice for professional engineering geology

Involve diverse groups of stakeholders with widely varying needs

Have significant consequences in a range of contexts

Engineering Geological Activities

Complex engineering geological activities means activities or projects that have some or all

of the following characteristics:

Involve the use of diverse resources (and for this purpose resources includes people,

money, equipment, materials and technologies)

Require recognition, understanding and resolution of significant problems arisingfrom interactions between wide-ranging or conflicting engineering, engineering

geological and/or other issues

Involve the use of new techniques or processes, or the use of existing techniques or

processes in innovative ways


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Guidelines for Engineering Geology

Professional Engineering Geology Element 1

E L E M E N T D E S C R I P T I O N

1 Comprehend, and apply knowledge of, accepted principles underpinning widely applied good practicefor professional engineering geology

P E R F O R M A N C E I N D I C A T O R S

Has a recognised Geological degree at Honours level, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s level

or Doctorate level awarded by a university or institution of higher education or has

demonstrated equivalent knowledge and is able to:

o Identify, comprehend and apply appropriate engineering geological knowledge

o

Work from first principles to make reliable predictions of outcomes

o Seek advice, where necessary, to supplement own knowledge and experience

o Read literature, comprehend, evaluate and apply new knowledge

G E N E R A L G U I D E L I N E S

This element is intended to show the candidate currently has the level of knowledge of a

degree at Honours level, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s level or Doctorate level (or

recognised equivalent qualification) supported by on-going CPD, although applicants can

demonstrate they have acquired the same level of knowledge through other learning

processes

Applicants are able to apply that knowledge through work experience. The competence

required by the standard is that of a graduate with at least 5 years post-graduate work

experience

Applicants will be expected to show their ability to work from first principles and to

comprehend and apply engineering geological knowledge

P R O F E S S I O N A L E N G I N E E R I N G G E O L O G I S T

Examples of evidence include:

Higher level learning in engineering geology such as a postgraduate qualification in

engineering geology or hydrogeology or geotechnical engineering

Work experience showing clear career progression in engineering geology

Clear and logical reports laid out in a manner that another engineering geologist,

engineering professional or lay person (depending on its purpose) can readily follow

Documents such as maps, geological models, analyses and reports demonstrating

appreciation and application of the principles of engineering geology


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2 Comprehend and apply knowledge of accepted principles underpinning good practice for professionalengineering geology that is specific to New Zealand


Demonstrates an awareness of legal requirements and regulatory issues in New Zealand

Demonstrates an awareness of and applies appropriately the special engineering geological

requirements operating in New Zealand


Evidence that shows the applicant understands and works in compliance with the relevant

regulatory framework - for example, compliance regimes covered by statute or local body

by-law, mandatory standards or codes of practice

Demonstrates an understanding of situations and responsibilities when/where

standards/guidelines/specifications need to be modified or amended to suit specific

situations and document the resulting implications


Examples of evidence should include a good working knowledge of:

Geological hazards affecting New Zealand, in particular slope instability, earthquakes and

active volcanism

Geotechnical risks associated with geological hazards affecting New Zealand, in particular

slope instability and earthquakes

Geotechnical behaviour of geological materials specific to the regions in which the

engineering geologist practices as well as in other parts of New Zealand, e.g. Northland

Allochthon, Otago schist, Waitemata Group, volcanic materials, greywacke, loess, karst

Examples of evidence include a working knowledge of most or all of these:

A broad understanding of the geology of New Zealand

NZ Geotechnical Society guidelines

Building Act provisions for suitability of land for building on

Resource Management Act, for example geotechnical requirements for subdivision of land

NZ Standards, for example relating to land development, drilling, laboratory testing

Relevant MBIE guidelines

TLA requirements for sediment and erosion control for earthworks US EPA guidelines for design of application of water or wastewater to soil

NZ seismic hazard criteria as embodied in NZS 1170.5

OSH requirements relating to trenches, excavations and shafts


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3 Recognise, define and investigate complex engineering geological problems in accordance with goodpractice for professional engineering geology


Identifies and defines the scope of the problem

Investigates and assesses relevant information using qualitative and semi-quantitative

techniques

Tests interpretations and analyses for reasonableness of results

Conducts any necessary research or further assessments and reaches substantiated

conclusions


Evidence demonstrates knowledge of technical fundamentals (including the formulation of

appropriate engineering geological models, taking into account available data and the

engineering requirements), in the scoping of investigations for complex engineering

problems

Examples of methodologies used for investigation and assessment outside those

encompassed by standard approaches

Understands the limitations of investigation techniques

Evidence of consideration of the engineering design requirements, and identification of

constraints and alternatives

Evidence of literature searches, use of network of peers to gather information onapproaches to problem solving


Examples of evidence include those that demonstrate:

Ability to research and understand the geological/ geomorphological setting and

framework

Ability to scope and conduct geological and geotechnical investigations

Ability to select and apply engineering geological techniques and analyses

Ability to interpret ground conditions and develop geological and geotechnical models

Understanding of uncertainties and risks in geological and geotechnical models

An understanding of the engineering requirements and implications for design (for exampleground settlement, stability, liquefaction, foundations (shallow and deep), earthworks,

seepage, groundwater, ground support, soil-structure interaction, pavements)


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4 Analyse and communicate complex engineering geological problems in order to inform developmentof engineering solutions and design in accordance with good professional practice.


Analyses geological and geotechnical information to inform engineering design

Considers the engineering design requirements and identifies constraints and alternatives

Uses maps, sections and models to communicate investigation data and interpretation of

ground conditions

Develops concepts and recommendations to inform design and construction that consider

project needs, requirements and criteria

Interacts with the design and/or construction engineer


Evidence of responsibility taken in a project or significant task from the end of an

investigation phase showing solutions developed which resulted in objectives being met.

This can be over a range of similar projects/tasks, or one overall project/task with multiple

components.


Examples of evidence include those that demonstrate:

Ability to communicate

o

significance of the geological setting and framework to the projecto geological and geotechnical investigation data

o relevance of ground conditions and geological and geotechnical models

o uncertainties and risks in geological and geotechnical models

o understanding of the engineering requirements

Verification of ground conditions and testing requirements

Evaluation of and response to monitoring data before, during and following construction in

or on the ground

Preparation and monitoring of geotechnical related contracts or parts of contracts

The ability to evaluate different solutions to the same problem and recommend an option.


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5 Be responsible for making decisions on part or all of one or more complex engineering geologicalactivities


Takes responsibility for his/her outputs and for those for whom he/she is responsible

Accepts accountability for his/her engineering geological activities


Examples of evidence include responsible roles in geotechnical projects, for example:

Assessing suitability of sites for development

Developing appropriate geological models, refining these through the project life, andinterpreting their significance for complex projects

Investigating and resolving construction and post-construction engineering geological

problems, e.g. foundation settlement, slope instability, earthworks and verification

Peer review

Preparation and presentation of expert evidence

Responsible for assessing geotechnical risk and recommending risk management

strategies.


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6 Manage part or all of one or more complex engineering geological activities in accordance with goodengineering management practice


Plans, schedules and organises projects to deliver specified outcomes

Applies appropriate quality assurance techniques

Manages resources, including personnel, finance and physical resources

Manages conflicting demands and expectations


Examples of evidence include management of: Geological and geotechnical investigations

Application of engineering geological techniques and analyses

Interpretation of ground conditions and evolution of geological and geotechnical models

Geotechnical and groundwater monitoring

Investigation and resolution of construction and post-construction geotechnical problems,

e.g. foundation settlement, slope instability, earthworks, ground improvement works,

underground support

Assessment of geotechnical risk and recommendation of risk management strategies.


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7 Identify, assess and manage engineering geological uncertainty and geotechnical risk


Identifies risks (professional, technical, Health & Safety, financial, legal, client etc)

Develops risk management policies, procedures and protocols to manage safety and

hazards

Manages risks through ‘elimination, minimisation and avoidance’ techniques



Identify, investigate and evaluate engineering geological uncertainty Evaluate the implications of engineering geological uncertainty on the project to allow the

identification and assessment of geotechnical risk

Identification and assessment of geotechnical risk

Understanding of the different types of geotechnical risk (e.g. managerial, contractual,

analytical, geological)

Development and/or use of risk mitigation strategies

Monitoring risk items and developing responses to issues such as slope stability safety

issues

Awareness of differences between commercial/property risk and risk to life


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8 Conduct engineering geological activities to an ethical standard at least equivalent to the relevantcode of ethical conduct


Demonstrates understanding of IPENZ codes of ethics

Behaves in accordance with the relevant code of ethics even in difficult circumstances

(includes demonstrating an awareness of limits of capability; acting with integrity and

honesty and demonstrating self management)

Informs decision makers of significant consequences from not following advice (e.g. related

to risks, safety etc).



Demonstrating an awareness of the peer review process and relevant guidelines (e.g. IPENZ

and ACENZ)

Ethical dilemmas and actions taken

Understanding the role and ethics of acting as a peer reviewer and/or expert witness

Clear understanding of his/her competency limits and how he/she has worked within those

limits

Standing up for professional standards

Differences between corporate and personal behaviour

Recognising obligations beyond immediate client responsibilities


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9 Recognise the reasonably foreseeable social, cultural and environmental effects of professionalengineering geological and engineering activities generally


Considers and, where needed, takes into account health and safety compliance issues and

impact(s) on those affected by engineering activities

Considers and takes into account possible social, cultural and environmental impacts and

consults where appropriate

Considers Treaty of Waitangi implications and consults accordingly

Recognises impact and long-term effects of engineering activities on the environment

Recognises foreseeable effects and where practicable seeks to reduce adverse effects



Involvement in RMA consent applications for geotechnical construction

Demonstrating awareness of environmental effects of geotechnical construction, both at

and below the ground surface, and ways to limit adverse effects

Applying sediment and erosion control measures for earthworks

Recognising safety in geotechnical design and construction, e.g. investigations, slope

stability, earthworks, temporary excavations

Environmental effects of engineering works on the ground and groundwater.


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10 Communicate clearly with other engineering geologists, engineers and those that he or she islikely to deal with in the course of his or her professional engineering geological activities


Uses oral and written communication to meet the needs and expectations of his/her

audience

Communicates using a range of media suitable to the audience and context

Treats people with respect

Develops empathy and uses active listening skills when communicating with others

Operates effectively as a team member



Producing clearly understood documentation of investigations, including engineering

geological and geotechnical models, sections and plans

Communicating geotechnical issues and risk with clarity

Communicating with non-technical people

Participating in teams for geotechnical engineering work and/or participating in

multidiscipline teams for engineering projects

Acting as expert witness or peer reviewer

Giving evidence in a resource consent or Environment Court hearing

Preparing and presenting technical papers.


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11 Maintain the currency of his or her professional engineering geological/ geotechnicalknowledge and skills


Demonstrates a commitment to extending and developing knowledge and skills

Participates in education, training, mentoring or other programmes contributing to his/her

professional development

Adapts and updates knowledge base in the course of professional practice

Demonstrates collaborative involvement with professional engineers and engineering

geologists



Reading engineering geological, hydrogeological and geotechnical publications and journals

Attending and/or participating in local and international geotechnical conferences and

workshops

Attending and/or participating in geotechnical related technical group meetings

Knowing where to source information on state-of-the-art geotechnical practice.


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12 Exercise sound professional judgement in engineering geology


Demonstrates the ability to identify alternative options

Demonstrates the ability to choose between options and justify decisions

Peers recognise his/her ability to exercise sound professional engineering geological

judgement

G E N E R A L P R A C T I C E F I E L D G U I D E L I N E S

Undertake complex and multi-criteria analysis as a part of exercising engineering

geological judgement Takes a holistic approach in the development of models and implementation of

engineering solutions, respecting other professional and individual inputs and

demonstrating a balanced process to achieve desired outcomes

Undertakes decision making - uses technical, economic, social, environmental etc criteria

when there is a choice of options (e.g. what factors were taken into account in making the

decision? What impact did those factors have? What were the benefits/compromises in

making the decision?)

Feedback and learning from one’s peers (e.g. positive peer review of work)


Examples of evidence include: Recognition by peers and referees of engineering geological expertise and ability to

exercise sound professional judgement

Solutions and/or reports that demonstrate how decisions have been made on the best

options to satisfy the client’s needs and how the final option was selected

The ability to evaluate different solutions to the same problem and recommend an option.