Services

The type of geological model needed depends on the stage of the project. We develop  2D and 3D geological models for all stages of the project life-cycle. Model types include:

• Concept geological models – using pre-existing information and experiences of similar materials in similar settings.
• Initial engineering geology models – where the above is supplemented with some limited site data.
• Detailed engineering geology models – incorporating the findings of investigation campaigns.
• Geotechnical/analytical models – the model is adapted for use in analysis/design, defined ‘units’ of similar characteristics and expected behaviour.

The characteristics of the data available are important.   Key data characteristics include:

• Quality – how the available data conforms to modern standards/methods.
• Reliability in the confidence level we have in the data – is it right or wrong or do we just not know?
• Representativeness – does the data show the actual material characteristics (e.g. is enough information available, is there a sampling bias present).

We also undertake engineering geological assessment of the following items for dam projects:

• Active faults (neotectonic features).
• Foundation characterisation for site-specific seismic hazard assessments (such as Vs30).
• Reservoir shoreline stability – both existing landslides and potential first-time failures.
• Reservoir water losses – such as due to the presence of soluble rocks.
• General excavation stability – such as for spillways, diversions.
• Rock erodibility.
• Excavatability.
• Grout curtains and foundation drains.

During dam operation, our dam geology services include:

• Safety inspections and reviews – such as Comprehensive Dam Safety Reviews (CDSR’s) in New Zealand and 20-year Safety Reviews in Australia.
• Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA) – identifying credible vs non-credible geological-based Potential Failure Modes (PFM’s).
• Comprehensive Risk Assessments (CRA) – identifying factors that make the identified PFM’s more or less likely, quantifying geological uncertainty and knowledge gaps.
• Technical studies to address identified dam safety recommendations – such as new investigations.
• Condition surveys.
• Monitoring and surveillance advice – those related to geological-based PFM’s.

We are also experienced in incident and emergency response, including following rainfall, earthquake and flood events.