GSI hosts webinar on MSE structure inspection

The Geosynthetic Institute (GSI) will sponsor a webinar entitled “Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) Wall, Berm and Slope Construction Inspection,” on May 9, 2018, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. EDT.

The inspection and monitoring of MSE wall, berm and slope construction using geosynthetic reinforcement is essential for providing a safe, durable system. Such inspection includes three distinct time frames: before, during and after construction. This webinar is focused on what is felt to be the proper state-of-the-practice in this regard. Integral to this task is the contractual method, the various organizations involved and the tasks of the inspectors. The materials involved (soils, geosynthetic facings) will be illustrated, as will typical inspection costs. Specific activities before construction (foundation conditions, water regimes, materials conformance testing, meetings and documentation); during construction (leveling pad, drainage, face forming, lift progression and finished soil surface); and after construction (final structure, as-built survey and periodic future inspections) will be emphasized. An inspector certification program will be described.

This webinar will be useful for owners of MSE walls, berms and slopes in both the public and private sectors; federal, state and regional geotechnical, transportation and environmental engineers; engineers from municipal districts and townships; private and municipal land developers; architectural and landscape designers; civil consulting engineers; testing laboratories servicing these organizations; employees of geosynthetics manufacturers; contractors and installers of MSE walls, berms and steep soil slopes; academic and research groups; and others desiring technically related information on this important aspect of our constructed infrastructure.

The webinar will be taught by Dr. Robert M. Koerner, professor emeritus of civil engineering at Drexel University and director emeritus of the Geosynthetic Institute.

Webinars cost $200.00 for GSI members and $250.00 for nonmembers. Successful completion of a multiple-choice test after the webinar carries 1.5 professional development units.

For more information or to register, visit www.geosynthetic-institute.org/webinar.htm.