ENGINEERING GEOLOGY

Author: Barakat Olawunmi Olayiwola

Genre: Engineering Geology

Have you ever seen a building collapse? Have you ever had to wonder why infrastructure fails? A thousand and one factors can cause the failure of an infrastructure. It may be as a result of poor construction materials, natural disasters, poor foundation design etc. The list is as long as a giraffe's neck.

One proactive way to help curb the failure of structures is through thorough geotechnical investigation before infrastructure planning.

This thorough investigation falls within the auspices of Engineering Geology.

It then brings to mind the question - What is Engineering Geology?

Engineering geology is the application of geology to engineering studies to ensure that geological factors related to the location, design, construction, operation and maintenance of engineering works are recognized and implemented before and during engineering activities.?

Engineering geology, or EngGeo as we would call it in this article, also provides geological and geotechnical recommendations, analysis and design related to human development and different types of structures. EngGeo revolves around the earth's structure. It investigates how the earth or the earth's processes affect infrastructure and human activities.?

EngGeo problems are solved using the application of geological knowledge. It helps to ensure a safe and cost-effective design for construction projects by conducting a detailed geological survey of an area or site.

Over time, engineering geology has gained wide application in most parts of the world, especially in preconstruction investigation for structures such as buildings, dams, roads and highways, bridges and tunnels etc. EngGeo has a significant role in mitigating the effect of natural hazards such as erosion, flood, landslide and subsidence. It is also essential in water exploration, mineral exploration, environmental protection etc.?

EngGeo is a well-established interdisciplinary branch of science and engineering, which has scope across various fields including but not necessarily limited to civil engineering, mining and urban planning.

In conclusion, an engineering geologist applies geological sciences to engineering practices and uses them to solve engineering problems in a way that all geological elements are considered.