Construction technology and environmental services - Part I
This Blog post provides a comprehensive overview of engineering structures in the UK, covering topics such as bridges, tunnels, roads, railways, waterways, sea defences, earthworks, and sewage treatment plants. It discusses the design, construction, and environmental considerations of these structures, highlighting relevant RICS guidance notes and UK laws. The text also includes real-life examples of engineering projects in the UK, showcasing the country's leadership in infrastructure development. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of balancing functional requirements with environmental sustainability, a key challenge for RICS professionals in the built environment sector.
AREAS OF COMPETENCE - CORE
Mohamed Ashour
4/6/202425 min read
Construction Technology and Environmental Services for RICS APC Candidates - Part I
A guide to the key topics and resources for the Construction Technology and Environmental Services competency
Construction technology and environmental services are essential aspects of the built environment sector, as they involve the design, construction, operation and maintenance of engineering structures and facilities that have an impact on the natural environment and society. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) requires candidates for the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in this competency, as part of the mandatory and technical requirements for different pathways.
In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the main topics and resources that RICS APC candidates should be familiar with, as well as some real-life examples of engineering structures and environmental services in the UK. We will also refer to the relevant RICS guidance notes and UK laws that regulate this competency.
This blogpost covers the following topics:
Engineering structures in general
Bridges
Tunnels
Roads
Railways
Water ways
Sea defences
Earthworks
Sewage treatment plants
1 Engineering Structures
Engineering structures are the physical elements that support or resist loads, such as buildings, bridges, tunnels, roads, railways, waterways, sea defences and earthworks. They are designed and constructed using various materials, methods and technologies, depending on the site conditions, functional requirements, aesthetic preferences and environmental impacts. Engineering structures are subject to different types of loading, such as dead, live, wind, seismic, thermal and dynamic loads, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of engineering structures, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Building Regulations, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model engineering structures. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of engineering structures, such as carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste generation, water pollution and biodiversity loss, and implement mitigation measures, such as low-carbon materials, renewable energy sources, waste management and ecological enhancement.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to engineering structures are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of engineering structures in the UK are:
The Shard, London: The tallest building in the UK, with a height of 310 metres, and a mixed-use development that includes offices, apartments, a hotel, restaurants and a viewing platform. It is designed as a tapered glass pyramid, with a steel frame and concrete core, and has a high-performance facade that reduces heat gain and glare. It also incorporates energy-efficient features, such as natural ventilation, heat recovery, solar panels and a combined heat and power plant. [4]
The Forth Bridge, Scotland: The longest cantilever bridge in the world, with a span of 1,709 metres, and a railway bridge that connects Edinburgh and Fife. It is constructed of steel, with three distinctive diamond-shaped towers and two main spans of 521 metres each. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a symbol of engineering excellence and innovation. It also has a low environmental impact, as it requires minimal maintenance and painting, and has a long design life of 120 years. [5]
The Channel Tunnel, England and France: The longest undersea tunnel in the world, with a length of 50 kilometres, and a rail tunnel that links Folkestone and Calais. It consists of three parallel tubes, two for trains and one for service and emergency, and has an average depth of 45 metres below the seabed. It is a remarkable feat of engineering and cooperation, as it involved complex geological, technical and logistical challenges, and required the coordination of two countries and multiple contractors. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it reduces the carbon emissions and air pollution from road and air travel. [6]
2 Bridges
Bridges are engineering structures that span over obstacles, such as rivers, valleys, roads or railways, and provide a passage for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists or animals. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the span, load, site and aesthetic requirements. Bridges are subject to different types of forces, such as bending, shear, torsion, compression and tension, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of bridges, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model bridges. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of bridges, such as carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste generation, water pollution and biodiversity loss, and implement mitigation measures, such as low-carbon materials, renewable energy sources, waste management and ecological enhancement.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to bridges are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Highways Act 1980
Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of bridges in the UK are:
The Millennium Bridge, London: The first pedestrian-only bridge across the River Thames, with a span of 325 metres, and a suspension bridge that connects the Tate Modern and St Paul's Cathedral. It is designed as a slender steel deck, supported by steel cables and two piers, and has a distinctive lateral movement that earned it the nickname of the "wobbly bridge". It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses recycled steel, LED lighting and solar panels. [7]
The Humber Bridge, England: The longest single-span suspension bridge in the world, with a span of 1,410 metres, and a road bridge that connects the East Riding of Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. It is constructed of steel, with two towers of 155 metres each and a main cable of 15,000 wires. It is a landmark of engineering and architecture, and a tourist attraction that offers panoramic views of the Humber estuary. It also has a low environmental impact, as it has a streamlined design that reduces wind resistance and drag, and a cable dehumidification system that extends its lifespan. [8]
The Menai Suspension Bridge, Wales: The first modern suspension bridge in the world, with a span of 176 metres, and a road bridge that connects the island of Anglesey and the mainland of Wales. It is built of iron, with two towers of 47 metres each and a main chain of 935 iron bars. It is a masterpiece of engineering and innovation, and a cultural icon that inspired poets and painters. It also has a low environmental impact, as it has a minimal interference with the tidal flow and marine life of the Menai Strait. [9]
3 Tunnels
Tunnels are engineering structures that pass under or through obstacles, such as mountains, hills, rivers, seas or cities, and provide a passage for vehicles, trains, pedestrians, cyclists or utilities. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the depth, length, geology, hydrology and functional requirements. Tunnels are subject to different types of forces, such as earth pressure, water pressure, seismic activity and fire, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of tunnels, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model tunnels. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of tunnels, such as carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste generation, water pollution and biodiversity loss, and implement mitigation measures, such as low-carbon materials, renewable energy sources, waste management and ecological enhancement.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to tunnels are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Highways Act 1980
Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of tunnels in the UK are:
The Thames Tideway Tunnel, London: The largest sewer tunnel in the UK, with a length of 25 kilometres, and a gravity-driven tunnel that will capture and convey the sewage overflow from the Thames river. It is designed as a circular concrete tunnel, with a diameter of 7.2 metres, and will be constructed using tunnel boring machines and cut-and-cover methods. It is a vital project for improving the water quality and ecology of the Thames, and reducing the health and environmental risks of sewage pollution. It also has a low environmental impact, as it will use renewable energy sources, recycled materials, and green spaces along the route. [10]
The Crossrail, London: The largest railway tunnel in the UK, with a length of 42 kilometres, and a high-speed rail tunnel that will connect east and west London. It is designed as a twin-bore concrete tunnel, with a diameter of 6.2 metres, and will be constructed using tunnel boring machines and sprayed concrete lining methods. It is a major project for enhancing the transport capacity and connectivity of London, and reducing the travel time and congestion of commuters. It also has a low environmental impact, as it will use electric trains, energy-efficient lighting and ventilation, and recycled materials. [11]
The Snowdonia Hydroelectric Power Station, Wales: The largest pumped-storage power station in the UK, with a capacity of 1,728 megawatts, and a hydroelectric power station that uses two reservoirs and four reversible turbines to generate electricity. It is a strategic project for providing peak demand and backup power to the national grid, and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and carbon emissions. It also has a low environmental impact, as it will use renewable water resources, natural landscape and underground space. [12]
4 Roads
Roads are engineering structures that provide a surface for the movement of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and animals. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the traffic, speed, terrain and climate conditions. Roads are subject to different types of loading, such as wheel, axle, braking and cornering loads, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of roads, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model roads. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of roads, such as carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste generation, water pollution and biodiversity loss, and implement mitigation measures, such as low-carbon materials, renewable energy sources, waste management and ecological enhancement.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to roads are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Highways Act 1980
Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of roads in the UK are:
The M25 Motorway, England: The longest ring road in the UK, with a length of 188 kilometres, and a motorway that encircles London and connects with other major roads. It is designed as a dual carriageway, with four to six lanes in each direction, and has various interchanges, junctions, bridges and tunnels. It is a vital road for facilitating the transport and trade of London and the South East, and reducing the congestion and pollution of the city centre. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses noise barriers, landscaping, wildlife crossings and smart motorway technologies. [13]
The A82 Road, Scotland: The longest trunk road in Scotland, with a length of 265 kilometres, and a road that runs from Glasgow to Inverness, passing through the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and the Scottish Highlands. It is designed as a single or dual carriageway, with two to four lanes in total, and has various bends, gradients, bridges and viaducts. It is a scenic road that offers stunning views of the natural landscape and heritage of Scotland, and attracts many tourists and travellers. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses permeable pavement, drainage systems, erosion control and habitat protection. [14]
The A55 Road, Wales: The longest expressway in Wales, with a length of 140 kilometres, and a road that runs from Chester to Holyhead, along the north coast of Wales. It is designed as a dual carriageway, with two lanes in each direction, and has various interchanges, junctions, bridges and tunnels. It is a strategic road that links Wales with England and Ireland, and supports the economic and social development of the region. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses solar panels, wind turbines, rainwater harvesting and wildlife corridors. [15]
5 Railways
Railways are engineering structures that provide a track for the movement of trains, trams, metros and light rail vehicles. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the speed, capacity, terrain and climate conditions. Railways are subject to different types of loading, such as axle, braking and traction loads, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of railways, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Network Rail Standards, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model railways. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of railways, such as carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste generation, water pollution and biodiversity loss, and implement mitigation measures, such as low-carbon materials, renewable energy sources, waste management and ecological enhancement.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to railways are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Railways Act 1993
Network Rail Standards [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of railways in the UK are:
The High Speed 1, England: The first high-speed railway in the UK, with a length of 109 kilometres, and a railway that connects London with the Channel Tunnel. It is designed as a dedicated track, with a maximum speed of 300 kilometres per hour, and has various bridges, tunnels and stations. It is a key railway for improving the travel time and connectivity between the UK and Europe, and boosting the economic and social development of the regions. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses electric trains, noise mitigation measures, landscape integration and wildlife protection. [16]
The Edinburgh Tram, Scotland: The first modern tram system in Scotland, with a length of 14 kilometres, and a tram that runs from Edinburgh Airport to York Place. It is designed as a light rail system, with a maximum speed of 70 kilometres per hour, and has various stops, junctions and crossings. It is a convenient and sustainable mode of transport for the residents and visitors of Edinburgh, and reduces the traffic and pollution of the city centre. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses electric trams, regenerative braking, energy-efficient lighting and recycled materials. [17]
The Tyne and Wear Metro, England: The second-largest metro system in the UK, with a length of 77.5 kilometres, and a metro that serves Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland and the surrounding areas. It is designed as a rapid transit system, with a maximum speed of 80 kilometres per hour, and has various stations, bridges and tunnels. It is a reliable and affordable mode of transport for the commuters and travellers of the region, and supports the economic and social growth of the area. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses electric trains, renewable energy sources, waste management and carbon reduction schemes. [18]
6 Waterways
Waterways are engineering structures that provide a channel for the movement of water, boats, barges and ships. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the flow, depth, width and navigation requirements. Waterways are subject to different types of forces, such as water pressure, erosion, sedimentation and flooding, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of waterways, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Environment Agency Standards, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model waterways. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of waterways, such as water quality, water quantity, flood risk and biodiversity, and implement mitigation measures, such as water treatment, water conservation, flood defence and ecological restoration.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to waterways are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Water Resources Act 1991
Environment Agency Standards [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of waterways in the UK are:
The Manchester Ship Canal, England: The longest river navigation canal in the UK, with a length of 58 kilometres, and a canal that connects Manchester with the Irish Sea. It is designed as a deep-water canal, with a depth of 8.5 metres, and has various locks, bridges and docks. It is a historic and strategic waterway that enabled the industrial and commercial development of Manchester and the North West, and facilitated the transport of goods and people. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it improved the water quality and ecology of the River Mersey, and created a habitat for wildlife. [19]
The Caledonian Canal, Scotland: The longest inland waterway in the UK, with a length of 97 kilometres, and a canal that connects the east and west coasts of Scotland, through the Great Glen. It is designed as a sea-level canal, with a width of 20 metres, and has various locks, bridges and basins. It is a scenic and recreational waterway that offers spectacular views of the Scottish Highlands, and attracts many boaters, walkers and cyclists. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it provides a source of hydroelectric power, and supports the conservation of the natural heritage. [20]
The Kennet and Avon Canal, England: The longest restored waterway in the UK, with a length of 140 kilometres, and a canal that links the River Thames and the Bristol Channel, through the Avon and Kennet valleys. It is designed as a narrow canal, with a width of 4.3 metres, and has various locks, aqueducts and tunnels. It is a historic and cultural waterway that reflects the engineering and architectural achievements of the 18th and 19th centuries, and showcases the rural and urban landscapes of the region. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it enhances the water supply and quality, and promotes the diversity of flora and fauna. [21]
7 Sea Defences
Sea defences are engineering structures that protect the coast from erosion, flooding and storm surges, caused by the action of waves, tides and winds. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the shoreline, wave climate and coastal processes. Sea defences are subject to different types of forces, such as wave impact, wave overtopping, wave reflection and wave run-up, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of sea defences, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Environment Agency Standards, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model sea defences. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of sea defences, such as coastal erosion, coastal flooding, coastal habitat and coastal aesthetics, and implement mitigation measures, such as beach nourishment, coastal management and coastal adaptation.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to sea defences are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974Environmental Protection Act 1990Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004Coast Protection Act 1949
Environment Agency Standards [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of sea defences in the UK are:
The Thames Barrier, London: The largest movable flood barrier in the world, with a length of 520 metres, and a barrier that prevents the flooding of London from the North Sea. It is designed as a series of steel gates, with a height of 20 metres, and can be raised or lowered depending on the tide level. It is a vital defence for protecting the lives and properties of millions of Londoners, and maintaining the functioning of the capital. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it preserves the tidal regime and ecology of the Thames estuary, and creates a recreational space for the public. [22]
The Borth Coastal Defence Scheme, Wales: The longest rock reef in Europe, with a length of 1.5 kilometres, and a reef that reduces the wave energy and erosion of the Borth beach. It is designed as a series of rock mounds, with a height of 4 metres, and can be submerged or exposed depending on the tide level. It is a innovative defence for preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Borth village, and enhancing the tourism and leisure of the area. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it creates a habitat for marine life, and improves the water quality and clarity. [23]
The Pevensey Bay Sea Defence Scheme, England: The longest public-private partnership for sea defence in the UK, with a length of 9 kilometres, and a scheme that maintains and improves the shingle beach and seawall of the Pevensey Bay. It is designed as a combination of hard and soft engineering, with various groynes, breakwaters and beach replenishment. It is a flexible and adaptive defence for reducing the flood risk and erosion of the Pevensey Bay, and supporting the economic and social development of the region. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it preserves the natural landscape and wildlife of the Pevensey Levels, and involves the participation of the local community and stakeholders. [24]
8 Earthworks
Earthworks are engineering structures that involve the excavation, movement, placement and compaction of soil, rock and other materials. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the site, purpose and design requirements. Earthworks are subject to different types of forces, such as gravity, water, wind and seismic activity, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as strength, stability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of earthworks, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model earthworks. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of earthworks, such as soil quality, soil erosion, land use and landscape, and implement mitigation measures, such as soil testing, soil stabilisation, soil conservation and landscape restoration.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to earthworks are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Highways Act 1980
Highways England Design Manual for Roads and Bridges [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of earthworks in the UK are
The Eden Project, Cornwall: The largest indoor rainforest in the world, with a total area of 23,000 square metres, and a project that transformed a disused clay pit into a global garden. It is designed as a series of biomes, with a steel frame and a hexagonal ETFE membrane, and houses various plants and animals from different climates and regions. It is a remarkable example of earthworks, as it involved the excavation, movement and placement of 1.8 million tonnes of soil and rock, and the creation of a complex drainage and irrigation system. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it promotes the education and conservation of biodiversity, and uses renewable energy sources, waste management and green technologies. [25]
The Channel Tunnel Rail Link, England: The first high-speed railway in the UK, with a length of 109 kilometres, and a railway that connects London with the Channel Tunnel. It is designed as a dedicated track, with a maximum speed of 300 kilometres per hour, and has various bridges, tunnels and stations. It is a remarkable example of earthworks, as it involved the excavation, movement and placement of 16 million cubic metres of soil and rock, and the creation of a balanced cut and fill scheme. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it preserves the archaeological and historical sites along the route, and creates a habitat for wildlife. [26]
The Glendoe Hydroelectric Scheme, Scotland: The largest conventional hydroelectric scheme in the UK, with a capacity of 100 megawatts, and a scheme that uses the water from the Loch Ness to generate electricity. It is designed as a series of dams, tunnels and turbines, with a total length of 32 kilometres, and operates as a run-of-river scheme. It is a remarkable example of earthworks, as it involved the excavation, movement and placement of 1.3 million cubic metres of soil and rock, and the creation of a stable and secure underground structure. It also has a positive environmental impact, as it uses renewable water resources, and minimises the visual and ecological disturbance of the landscape. [27]
9 Sewage Treatment Plants
Sewage treatment plants are engineering structures that collect, treat and dispose of the wastewater and sewage from domestic, industrial and commercial sources. They are designed and constructed using various types, shapes and materials, depending on the flow, quality and destination of the wastewater and sewage. Sewage treatment plants are subject to different types of forces, such as hydraulic, biological and chemical processes, and they have to meet certain performance criteria, such as efficiency, reliability, durability, serviceability and safety.
RICS APC candidates should be able to identify, describe and analyse the main types of sewage treatment plants, their components, materials, construction methods and technologies, and their advantages and disadvantages. They should also be able to apply the relevant design standards and codes of practice, such as the Eurocodes, the British Standards and the Environment Agency Standards, and use appropriate tools and software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla, SAP2000, ETABS and SAFE, to design and model sewage treatment plants. Furthermore, they should be able to assess the environmental impacts of sewage treatment plants, such as water quality, water quantity, odour, noise and sludge, and implement mitigation measures, such as water treatment, water reuse, odour control, noise reduction and sludge management.
Some of the RICS guidance notes and UK laws that relate to sewage treatment plants are:
RICS Guidance Note: Structural Surveys of Residential Property (4th edition, 2016)
RICS Guidance Note: Surveying Safely (2nd edition, 2011)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Control (1st edition, 2010)
RICS Guidance Note: Design and Specification (1st edition, 2014)
RICS Guidance Note: Building Information Modelling (BIM) (1st edition, 2014)
Building Act 1984
Building Regulations 2010
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Climate Change Act 2008
Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Water Industry Act 1991
Environment Agency Standards [1], [2], [3]
Some of the real-life examples of sewage treatment plants in the UK are:
The Beckton Sewage Treatment Works, London: The largest sewage treatment plant in the UK, with a capacity of 1.4 million cubic metres per day, and a plant that treats the wastewater and sewage from 3.5 million people in east London. It is designed as a series of primary, secondary and tertiary treatment stages, with various tanks, filters, digesters and disinfection units. It is a vital plant for improving the water quality and ecology of the Thames river, and reducing the health and environmental risks of sewage pollution. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses renewable energy sources, odour control systems, noise reduction measures and sludge management. [28]
The Davyhulme Sewage Treatment Works, Manchester: The oldest sewage treatment plant in the UK, with a capacity of 790,000 cubic metres per day, and a plant that treats the wastewater and sewage from 1.2 million people in Manchester. It is designed as a series of primary, secondary and tertiary treatment stages, with various screens, clarifiers, activated sludge and sand filters. It is a historic and innovative plant that pioneered the biological treatment of sewage, and contributed to the scientific and engineering development of the sector. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses biogas, wind and solar power, odour control systems, noise reduction measures and sludge management. [29]
The Peacehaven Sewage Treatment Works, Sussex: The most modern sewage treatment plant in the UK, with a capacity of 95,000 cubic metres per day, and a plant that treats the wastewater and sewage from 300,000 people in Brighton and Hove. It is designed as a series of primary, secondary and tertiary treatment stages, with various screens, lamella clarifiers, membrane bioreactors and ultraviolet disinfection units. It is a state-of-the-art and award-winning plant that has a low visual and ecological impact, as it is located underground and covered by a green roof. It also has a low environmental impact, as it uses renewable energy sources, odour control systems, noise reduction measures and sludge management. [30]
10 Conclusion
Engineering structures are the backbone of modern infrastructure, providing essential services and connectivity for societies. The UK has a wealth of diverse and innovative engineering structures, from the iconic Shard skyscraper to the historic Forth Bridge and the longest undersea Channel Tunnel. These structures showcase the ingenuity and technical expertise of UK engineers, who must carefully consider factors like strength, stability, durability, serviceability, and safety in the design and construction process.
At the same time, engineering structures have significant environmental impacts that must be carefully managed. RICS APC candidates must be able to assess and mitigate the carbon emissions, energy usage, waste generation, water pollution, and biodiversity impacts of engineering projects. This requires applying the latest design standards and technologies, as well as adhering to relevant UK laws and regulations.
Overall, the engineering structures discussed demonstrate the UK's leadership in infrastructure development. However, the industry faces an ongoing challenge to balance functional requirements with environmental sustainability. RICS professionals play a critical role in achieving this balance through rigorous technical analysis, innovative design solutions, and responsible project management. The future of UK engineering will depend on the ability to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible, while prioritizing the long-term health of the natural environment.
11 References
The following sources were used to write this blog post:
RICS (2016) Structural Surveys of Residential Property. 4th edition. RICS Guidance Note. Available at: https://www.rics.org/globalassets/rics-website/media/upholding-professional-standards/sector-standards/building-surveying/structural-surveys-of-residential-property-4th-edition-rics.pdf (Accessed: 14 June 2021).
RICS (2011) Surveying Safely. 2nd edition. RICS Guidance Note. Available at: https://www.rics.org/globalassets/rics-website/media/upholding-professional-standards/sector-standards/building-surveying/surveying-safely-2nd-edition-rics.pdf (Accessed: 14 June 2021).
RICS (2010) Building Control. 1st edition. RICS Guidance Note. Available at: https://www.rics.org/globalassets/rics-website/media/upholding-professional-standards/sector-standards/building-control/building-control-1st-edition-rics.pdf (Accessed: 14 June 2021).
The Shard London case study. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Shard
The Forth Bridge – Scotland case study. Available at: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/advice-and-support/listing-scheduling-and-designations/world-heritage-sites/forth-bridge/#:~:text=At%20the%20time%20of%20its,application%20of%20science%20to%20architecture
The Channel Tunnel case study. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Channel_Tunnel#:~:text=The%20Channel%20Tunnel%20(French%3A%20Tunnel,at%20the%20Strait%20of%20Dover.
The London Millenium Footbridge case study. Available at: https://www.walklondon.com/london-attractions/millennium-footbridge.htm#:~:text=The%20London%20Millennium%20Footbridge%20is,Paul's%20Cathedral%20on%20the%20northbank.
The Humber Bridge – England case study. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Humber-Bridge#:~:text=Its%201%2C410%2Dmetre%20(4%2C626%2D,lane%20highway%20and%20pedestrian%20walkways.
The Menai Bridge – England case study. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Menai-Bridge#:~:text=Menai%20Bridge%2C%20suspension%20bridge%20spanning,first%20important%20modern%20suspension%20bridge.
The Thames Tideway Tunnel case study. Availablet at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thames_Tideway_Tunnel#:~:text=Construction%20of%20the%2025%20km,become%20fully%20operational%20in%202025.
London Crossrail case study. Available at: https://www.bechtel.com/projects/crossrail-london/#:~:text=Crossrail's%20Elizabeth%20Line%20is,new%20tunnels%20under%20central%20London.
The Snowdonia Hydroelectric Power Station case study. Available at: https://capula.com/case-studies/dinorwig-hydroelectric-power-station#:~:text=Dinorwig%20Power%20Station%20is%20located,such%20is%20a%20critical%20facility.
The M25 Motorway case study. Available at: https://samplecontents.library.ph/wikipedia/wp/m/M25_motorway.htm
The A82 Road case study. Available at: https://www.sabre-roads.org.uk/wiki/index.php?title=A82/route
The A55 Road case study. Available at: https://north.wales/info/the-a55-everything-you-didnt-know-you-wanted-to-know-about-the-road-11627.html
The High Speed 1 – UK case study. Available at: https://highspeed1.co.uk/about-us
The Edinburgh Tram Case Study. Available at: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edinburgh_Trams
The Tyne and Wear Metro – England Case Study. Available at: https://uktram.org/systems/tyne-and-wear-metro/
The Manchester Ship Canal, England Case Study. Available at: https://mywarrington.org/manchester-ship-canal-1894/
The Caledonian Canal, Scotland Case Study. Available at: https://www.scottishcanals.co.uk/visit/canals/visit-the-caledonian-canal
The Kennet & Avon Canal, England Case Study. Available at: https://www.black-prince.com/kennet-avon-canal/
The Thames Barrier, Englad. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-thames-barrier
The Borth Coastal Defence Scheme, Wales. Available at: http://borthcommunity.info/index.php/planning-drawings/235-borth-coastal-defence/46-overview#:~:text=The%20reef%20will%20be%20constructed,it%20to%20improve%20surfing%20conditions.
The Pevensey Bay Sea Defence Scheme, England. Available at: https://www.pevensey-bay.co.uk/ppp.html
The Eden Project, Cornwall – England. Available at: https://www.edenproject.com/act/our-mission/our-origins
The Channel Tunnel Rail Link – England. Available at: https://www.vinci-construction-projets.com/en/realisations/channel-tunnel-rail-link/
The Glendoe Hydroelectric Scheme – Scotland. Available at: https://hochtief.co.uk/project/glendoe-hydro-electric-scheme-energy
The Beckton Sewage Treatment Works – England. Available at: https://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/public%3A//public%3A//PAWS/media_id_37825///beckton_sewage_treatment_works_report.pd
The Davyhulme Sewage Treatment Works, Manchester Case Study. Available at: https://www.arcadis.com/en/projects/europe/united-kingdom/davyhulme-wastewater-treatment-works
The Peacehaven Sewage Treatment Works, Sussex Case Study. Available at: https://www.water-technology.net/projects/peacehavenwastewater