Identification and evaluation of geotechnical hazards : Oborn, L E Proc of the Symposium on Engineering for Dams and Canals, Alexandra, 24–27 Nov 1983V9, N4, P9.1–9.14. Publ New Zealand: Inst Prof Engr New Zealand, 1983

Abstract

The New Zealand landscape presents a wide range of engineering geological hazards which investigators, designers, constructors and operators of hydro structures have to overcome. These hazards are a legacy of the country's complex geological history and its present seismotectonic and volcanological setting. These hazards include those that have resulted from the effects of past geological events and processes and mans activities (such as slope instability, large-scale loss of water and small-scale piping, subsidence and collapse of the ground's surface, and collapse of man-made underground openings), and those from events that can be expected some time in the future, but for which the place, timing and severity cannot be predicted on present day knowledge (such as strong earthquake induced ground motions, active faulting, ground deformation and volcanism). Investigations should be designed to identify and evaluate all hazards that could pose a threat to a project. This requires relevant regional and site engineering geological and engineering studies using conventional or appropriate engineering, geological, geomechanical, geophysical and geodetic techniques. These activities should be co-ordinated by a team of engineers and engineering geologists who have a deep sense of involvement, responsibility, and professionalism.