24.01.2023 | 18:30-19:45

The 2023 John Mitchell Lecture

Speakers: Professor Michael Winter.

Past event: Please note this event information is displayed for informational purposes only.

Introduction

The 2023 John Mitchell Lecture will be delivered by Professor Michael Winter.

This event is planned as an in-person event, and will also be webcast live.

This event is free to attend, but advance booking is required. A booking link is given below.

The event will be followed by a drinks reception.

The John Mitchell Award is presented annually by the ICE, based on a nomination from the BGA, for significant contributions in the field of geotechnical engineering. The award was instituted in 2008 in memory of the prominent geotechnical engineer John Mitchell of Arup, who was killed while observing piling works at a central London site in 1990.

The award criteria considered by the BGA include the following:

  • In reflection of John Mitchell’s career, selection will favour practical applications of up to date geotechnical concepts or models (rather than advanced theoretical academic practice).
  • The BGA will consider individuals, like John, who in the course of their careers via incremental works have made significant contribution to geotechnical practice.
  • Notwithstanding the above, the BGA will in addition consider any contemporary practitioner who has instigated a major advance in the geotechnical field, thus opening the award up to the innovative, regardless of age or incremental contribution count.
  • Date & Time
    Date & Time

    24.01.2023

    18:30 - 19:45

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  • Location
    Location

    Institution of Civil Engineers, One Great George Street, London SW1P 3AA

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  • Event Type
    Event Type

    BGA Meetings

  • Refreshments
    Refreshments

    Tea and Coffee will be available from 18:00.

    All attendees are invited to a drinks reception after the lecture.

Synopsis

Fast-moving, rainfall-induced debris flow events are relatively common in the mountainous areas of the UK. The mechanisms of rainfall-induced, fast-moving debris flows will be considered as they bridge between slow mass movements and flood phenomena. A series of case studies of debris flow impacts from Scotland and overseas will be described.

A wide-ranging view of hazard and risk assessment will be delivered, encompassing semi-quantitative regional assessment and quantitative site assessments of debris flow hazards and risks. Focussing on road networks to articulate the principles, the risks will be considered in terms of those that affect road users (fatality), the socio-economic activities that the network facilitates and the road infrastructure itself.

A strategic approach to risk reduction will be used to illustrate how a clear focus on the overall goal of risk reduction can be beneficial in developing an effective strategy before homing in on the desired outcomes and the generic approach to achieving those outcomes.

The effects of climate change on debris flow hazard and risk will be considered as will the issue of where landslide risk reduction sits within sustainability. Some issues surrounding the practice of risk assessment will also be highlighted.

Speakers

  • Professor Michael Winter

    Winter Associates

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