How do you keep up with the latest standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction?

1 Join professional associations

One of the best ways to keep up with the latest standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction is to join professional associations that are relevant to your field and interests. For example, the International Geosynthetics Society (IGS) is a global organization that promotes the advancement and dissemination of knowledge on geosynthetics. It publishes journals, newsletters, and conference proceedings, and organizes events, workshops, and webinars. By becoming a member of IGS or other similar associations, you can access valuable resources, network with peers, and participate in professional development opportunities.

2 Follow industry publications

Another way to keep up with the latest standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction is to follow industry publications that cover the latest trends, innovations, and best practices. For example, Geosynthetics Magazine is a bimonthly publication that features technical articles, case studies, news, and product information on geosynthetics. It also offers a digital edition, a website, and a newsletter. By subscribing to Geosynthetics Magazine or other similar publications, you can stay informed and inspired by the latest developments and applications of geosynthetics.

3 Use online databases

A third way to keep up with the latest standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction is to use online databases that provide access to relevant standards, specifications, and test methods. For example, ASTM International is a standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus standards for various materials, products, systems, and services, including geosynthetics. It also offers online tools, training, and certification programs. By using ASTM International or other similar databases, you can find and download the most current and authoritative standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction.

4 Attend webinars and courses

A fourth way to keep up with the latest standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction is to attend webinars and courses that offer education and training on geosynthetics. For example, Geosynthetica is a media platform that provides news, information, and education on geosynthetics. It also hosts webinars and courses that cover topics such as geosynthetic design principles, applications, testing, quality control, and installation. By attending Geosynthetica or other similar webinars and courses, you can learn from experts, update your skills, and earn continuing education credits.

5 Consult experts and peers

A fifth way to keep up with the latest standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction is to consult experts and peers who have experience and knowledge on geosynthetics. For example, you can seek advice from geosynthetic manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, engineers, contractors, or researchers who can provide guidance, recommendations, or feedback on your geosynthetic design and construction projects. You can also join online forums, groups, or communities where you can ask questions, share ideas, or discuss challenges and solutions related to geosynthetics.

6 Review case studies and best practices

A sixth way to keep up with the latest standards and guidelines for geosynthetic design and construction is to review case studies and best practices that showcase the successful use of geosynthetics in various geotechnical projects. For example, you can browse through the Geosynthetics Case Study Conference Proceedings, which are published by the Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) and the Fabricated Geomembrane Institute (FGI). These proceedings contain peer-reviewed papers that present case studies on geosynthetic design, installation, performance, and innovation. By reviewing case studies and best practices, you can gain insights, tips, and lessons learned from real-world examples of geosynthetic design and construction.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?