INNOVATION March-April 2014
As the official publication of Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia, Innovation is circulated to almost 34,000 BC-registered professional engineers and geoscientists, other professionals, industry and government representatives, educational institutions and the general public. The magazine is published six times each year on a bi-monthly basis.
Groundwater Management Strategies • Alberta Human Rights Complaint • Forest Practices Board Report
JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS OF BC
March/April 2014
Pipeline Geohazard Assessment in BC C.J. Westerman Award Recipient
Energy at Your Feet GeoExchange Taps Heat Stored in the Earth
PM40065271
TREVOR SCOTT CIVIL ENGINEER, BC HYDRO BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING, ’12
BCIT engineers.
POWERING THE PROVINCE Civil engineers like Trevor are developing innovative designs to help meet BC’s energy needs. BCIT grads earn Bachelor of Engineering degrees in: > Civil engineering
> Electrical engineering > Mechanical engineering Learn more about engineering at BCIT. bcit.ca/engineering
It’s your career. Get it right.
content s
March/April 2 014 [ volume 18 number 2)
features 18
Energy at Your Feet: GeoExchange Taps Solar Heat Stored in the Earth D’Arcy Jenish Westerman Award Winner Pioneers Climate Change Modelling in Groundwater Jean Sorensen
22
26 Sustainable Groundwater Management Strategies: Remediating Metal Contamination Using Permeable Reactive Barriers Michael Choi, B.Sc.; Ben Lin, B.A.Sc., P.Eng.; and Gabriel Viehweger, MS, P.Geo. 30 Pipeline Geohazard Assessment in British Columbia Dr. Rodney S. Read, P.Geo., P.Geol.; Moness Rizkalla, P.Eng.; and Dr. John J. Clague, P.Geo.
news
4
President’s Viewpoint – Practice Guidelines are the Cornerstone to Professional Practice Association Notes – APEGBC Staff Appointment: Efrem Swartz; Feedback Sought for Bylaw 3 Amendments; Government Relations Update; Receive Innovation by E-mail; Foundation Scholarships; 2013/2014 Project Highlights Call for Submissions; Forest Engineering Award of Excellence; Innovation Magazine Seeks Member Submissions; Volunteers Honoured with Geoscientists Canada Distinction Practice Matters – Report Finds Unsafe Bridges on Forest Roads; Sequencing and Dating of Letters of Assurance
ON THE COVER: British Pacific Properties’ The Aerie I and II are multi- residential buildings in West Vancouver that utilize closed-loop vertical geoexchange systems for their heating and cooling needs. Photo credit: GeoExchange BC.
8
13
14
Council Report – January 24, 2014
16
Showcasing Your Pride and Passion – National Engineering and Geoscience Month
17 Alberta Human Rights Commission Challenges Treatment of Internationally Trained Engineers 25 Students Get Hooked on Science at the 2014 Science Games 33 Removals for Non-Payment of Annual Fee
depar tment s
5 Letters 6 Newsmakers 35 Discipline and Enforcement 36 APEGBC Professional Development 37 Membership 42 Professional Services 47 OQM List
16
March was National Engineering and Geoscience Month, where we asked members to submit their photos for the APEGBC Photo Search to share their passion and pride for their careers.
i n n ova t i o n Ma r ch / A p r i l 2 0 1 4 3
March/April 2014
Volume 18 Number 2
v iewpoint
In light of the Forest Practice Board’s (FPB) recently released report on the planning, design and construction of forest bridges in BC, it seems fitting to take this opportunity to reflect on our professional activity as members of APEGBC and our necessary adherence to the Engineers and Geoscientists Act. The report, which was the result of an investigation into a number of forest road bridges constructed throughout the Province since 2010, found that 19 bridges were unsafe and investigators have serious safety concerns with an additional 13 bridges (see page 13 for more information about the report). The FPB report states that the problem cannot be attributed to a lack of legislation or guidance provided by the professional associa- tions—in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Since 2005, members of both APEGBC and the Association of BC Forest Professionals (ABCFP) have had access to professional practice guidelines (titled Guidelines for Professional Services in the Forest Sector — Crossings ) for bridge planning, design and construction. Instead, the FPB’s concern is that professionals are not following existing guidelines. These guidelines, which were revised in 2008, have been under review by the Joint Practices Board of APEGBC and ABCFP for the duration of the investigation. The new iteration is expected to be released shortly and the report’s findings will be factored into this review. With respect to the issue of professional practice guidelines, APEGBC has been at the forefront in Canada in the development of such proactive regulatory tools and has developed guidelines cover- ing a range of professional activities informing members how they can fulfil their professional obligations, including the duty to protect the safety, health and welfare of the public and the environment. All of these guidelines can be found on our website, and members have a professional responsibility to familiarize themselves with their content, as failure to do so can mean that public safety may be compromised. And though the Act requires that all registered mem- bers of APEGBC demonstrate competency in the guidelines relevant to their individual practice, any reasonable professional should take this to heart as public health and safety should always be at the forefront of our minds. As associations with a responsibility to ensure public health and safety, both APEGBC and ABCFP are taking the report’s findings very seriously. In response to the report, we have now met with both the FPB to review the files on the identified bridges and the Chief Engineer of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations to discuss the Ministry’s perspective. APEGBC will also meet with ABCFP and forest associations as requested by the Ministry to develop an action plan within 60 days of the release of the report. This is an opportunity to look at this report’s findings as a wake-up call and a call to action. When these requirements are not followed, public confidence and trust in our professions are eroded, and this is not a matter of which to make light. After all, the public expects and deserves high safety, environmental and professional standards. Attention to the guidelines will assure our employers, our clients, the public and other members that your work has been car- ried out in a consistent and competent manner.
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC Canada V5C 6N2 Tel: 604.430.8035 Fax: 604.430.8085 E-mail: apeginfo@apeg.bc.ca Internet: www.apeg.bc.ca Toll free: 1.888.430.8035 2013/2014 COUNCIL, APEGBC P resident M.B. Bapty, P.Eng., FEC V ice P resident John Clague, P.Geo., FGC P ast P resident M.D. Isaacson, P.Eng., PhD, FEC, FGC (Hon.) Councillors A.E. Badke, P.Eng.; S.M. Carlson, P.Eng. A. Fernandes, CIM, FCSI; D. Harvey, P.Eng., Struct.Eng., FEC
Practice Guidelines Are the Cornerstone to Professional Practice
H. Hawson, P.Eng., FEC; D.M. Howes, P.Eng., FEC H.G. Kelly, P.Eng.; G.D. Kirkham, P.Geo., FGC K. Laloge, CA; A. Mill, P.Eng., Struct.Eng., FEC K.E. Savage, P.Eng., FEC; K. Tarnai-Lokhorst, P.Eng. M. Waberski, BCLS; S. Wynn, PhD
ASSOCIATION STAFF A.J. English, P.Eng. C hief E xecutive O fficer and R egistrar T.M.Y. C hong, P.Eng. C hief R egulatory O fficer and D eputy R egistrar J.Y. Sinclair C hief O perating O fficer M. L. Archibald , D irector , C ommunications and S takeholder E ngagement J. Cho, CGA D irector , F inance and A dministration D. Gamble D irector , I nformation S ervices M. Lau, A cting D irector , C ommunications and S takeholder E ngagement P.R. Mitchell, P.Eng. D irector , P rofessional P ractice , S tandards and D evelopment D. Olychick D irector , M ember S ervices G.M. Pichler, P.Eng. D irector , R egistration E. Swartz, LLB A cting D irector , L egislation , E thics and C ompliance R.M. F ilipiak, P .Eng. A ssociate D irector , A dmissions V. Lai, CGA A ssociate D irector , F inance and A dministration J.J.G. Larocque, P.Eng., LLB A ssociate D irector , P rofessional P ractice
Michael Bapty, P.Eng., FEC President
Michelle Grady, M anaging E ditor
EDITORIAL BOARD S. Chiu, P.Eng.; R. Gupta, P.Eng., P h D; C.L. Hall, P.Geo.; S.K. Hayes, P.Eng.; K.S. Hirji, P.Eng.; M.A. Klippenstein, P.Eng.; I. Kokan, P.Eng.; M.E. Leslie, P.Eng.; B. Thomson, P.Geo., FEC (Hon)
president@ apeg.bc.ca
Advertising material should reach the publication by the 5th of the preceding month (e.g., January 5 for the Jan/Feb issue).
Advertising Contact: Gillian Cobban Tel: 604.929.6733 Fax: 604.929.6753 E-mail: advertising@apeg.bc.ca
Design/Production: Fusion FX Design & Marketing Inc Printed in Canada by Mitchell Press Ltd on recycled paper
Subscription rates per issue $4.50; six issues yearly $25.00. Annual subscriptions of Association members are apportioned from membership dues in the amount of $15 per member (rates do not include tax). Innovation is published six times a year by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia. As the official publication of the Association, Innovation is circulated to members of the engineering and geoscience professions, architects, contractors and industrial executives. The views expressed in any article contained herein do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Council or membership of this Association. Submission Guidelines: Innovation encourages unsolicited articles and photos. By submitting material to Innovation, you grant Innovation a royalty-free, worldwide license to publish the material in Innovation magazine; and you warrant that you have the authority to grant such rights and have obtained waivers of all associated moral rights. Innovation reserves the right to edit the material for length, clarity and conformity with our editorial guidelines (www.apeg.bc.ca/innovation-editorial) and is under no obligation to publish any or all submissions or any portion thereof including credits. All material is copyright. Please contact the Managing Editor for reprint permission.
ISSN 1206-3622 Publications Mail Agreement No 40065271. Registration No 09799.
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Innovation, Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC V5C 6N2.
US Postmaster: Innovation (ISSN 1206-3622) is published bimonthly for $25.00 per year by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia, c/o US Agent-Transborder Mail, 4708 Caldwell Rd E, Edgewood, WA 98372-9221. Periodicals postage paid at Puyallup, WA, and at additional mailing offices, US PO #007-927. POSTMASTER send address changes (covers only) to Innovation, c/o Transborder Mail, PO Box 6016, Federal Way, WA 98063-6016.
4
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
l et ter s
Paper Needs to Identify P.Eng. Involvement “A Changing Climate in British Columbia,” APEGBC’s Position Paper on Climate Change, starts well with its recog- nition of the impacts of climate change on the infrastructure engineers are asked to design. Over the lifetime of those projects, climate and weather- related risks are indeed likely to become more severe than those documented in the past. The position paper says, “APEGBC registrants are often required to provide information to decision-makers on the pros and cons of various courses of action,” but it fails to acknowledge the obvious: Some of those courses of action aggravate climate change itself. APEGBC will fail in its duty to “promote safety of the public and protection of the envi- ronment” until it addresses the responsibility of its registrants to incorporate reduction of the causes of climate change into their advice to decision-makers. Given the threat of climate change to the general popula- tion and future generations—as well as to built infrastruc- ture—engineers should consider the option of declining participation on certain projects. Donald Scarlett, P.Eng. Kaslo, BC Climate Change Not up for Debate As a professional geoscientist, I was pleased to see APEGBC issue a policy paper on climate change. However, I was disap- pointed reading the actual document. In stating that “APEGBC recognizes that the climate in British Columbia is changing”, the document appears so equivocal as to be meaningless.
Letters to the Editor containing your views on topics of interest are encouraged. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily endorsed by APEGBC. Letters can be e-mailed to mgrady@apeg.bc.ca.
Realizing Sustainable Practices I receive the APEGBC Professional Journal on a regular basis. It is individually addressed and mailed to my office, as are most of the subscriptions for my coworkers. This means that there are dozens of copies of the same maga- zine located around the office, and there may be a more efficient and environmentally friendly solution for keep- ing us up-to-date with the association and our changing careers. The electronic copy should be the default, and members should opt to receive the paper journal if they so desire. When mailing to a business address with individual addressees, we could be equally well-served with a shared copy. Perhaps this may be an initiative in the future, or something that is currently under review, but I wanted to bring to your attention that this would be something I support. I understand APEGBC’s stance on climate change, and the issuance of redundant copies of individually addressed mail seems counterintuitive with the multitude of other media channels available to communicate with members. Andrew Jensson, P.Eng. Vancouver, BC
Position Paper States the Obvious I was flabbergasted to see that our Position Paper on Climate Change merely states the obvious: “APEGBC recognizes that the climate is chang- ing,” without mentioning the principle reason—human-caused greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Even our provincial government recognizes this fact and has set GHG reduction targets, as does NASA and 99% of informed scientists. Could it be that we are compromised in taking a principled stand on this issue because some of our members make their living in oil and coal extraction industries? How can society, or indeed the Provincial government who look to us for informed advice, take our association seriously when we take such a lukewarm position on what is probably the greatest threat facing humanity in the 21 st century? Most disappointing. Mel Coulson, P. Eng. Quick, BC
Continued on page 6
Bull Housser’s lawyers have been trusted to handle some of the largest developments and transactions in British Columbia’s history. Today we have more than 30 areas of expertise, including core BC industries and specialty areas, and remain focused on reaching effective resolutions for our clients. We apply creative approaches to deliver solutions that are practical and cost-efficient. We’ve been around for over a century, but we’re just getting started...
5
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
l et ter s
That our local climate is “changing” is not up for debate. The more important issue is that the current global rate of atmospheric and ocean warming caused by anthropo- genic activity is unprecedented in human history, and in the history of engineering and geoscience practice. As a profession, we must acknowledge that the unpredictable (and potentially catastrophic) results of this warming are a problem that challenges our ability to protect human health, built infrastructure and the planetary ecosystems that support us. Re-evaluating our assumptions about local weather effects in light of changing climate is useful, but not nearly as important as recognizing that some activities performed by engineering and geoscience professionals may exacerbate the problem. As our Code of Ethics requires that we “Hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public, [and] protection of the environment,” we must go beyond merely evaluating impacts, and we must make the move towards reducing then eliminating the root cause of anthropogenic global warming, through technological innovation and best practices, as part of our regular everyday professional practice. APEGBC is a public body charged with protecting the public interest. It is our responsibility to recognize risks that may result from our practice, and be clear about the management of those risks. Forthright disclosure based on the best scientific knowledge is the basis of the trust placed upon us by our clients, the general public and our governing legislation. To be equivocal about the cause and potential impacts of anthropogenic global warming is to belie this trust. Patrick Johnstone, P.Geo. Richmond, BC
A Needless Position The APEGBC Position Paper on Climate Change (Jan/Feb issue) states that “APEGBC recognises that the climate is changing” ; but that is no “position” at all, simply a needless acknowledgement of a fact. The climate has been changing for many thousands of years…and still is. David Poole, P.Eng. Surrey, BC Initially driven by my desire to gather INSA Lyon graduates with the aim to share experience and, more generally, get to know each other, I would like to organize networking events for engineers who graduated in France and came to BC to work. I would be glad to hear from you. Please write to me at lemaire.anna@gmail.com. Anna Lemaire, EIT Vancouver, BC Call for French Engineering School Graduates
n ewsmaker s
APEGBC Member Honoured by EIC for Exceptional Contributions to the Profession
The Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC) has announced the 2014 recipients of its honours, awards and fellowships. The senior awards of EIC are the highest distinc- tions made by the Institute and are awarded to members of its technical societies. In addition, 18 engineers have been inducted as Fellows of EIC for their exceptional contributions to engineering in Canada. EIC President Jean Zu presented the award to APEGBC member, Tarek Sayed, P.Eng., at the Institute’s Annual Awards Banquet at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa on March 15 for exceptional contributions to engineering in Canada.
6
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
BUILDING BIG – AND ENERGY EFFICIENT – IN BURNABY
BEING POWER SMART MAKES BUSINESS SENSE Developer Jim Bosa is set to transform a major corner in Burnaby into a hub of residential, office and commercial activity – all of it built to very high standards of energy efficiency. While always interested in sustainability, Bosa has never before specifically targeted energy efficiency as a goal in his developments. But for the Solo District, located at the corner of Lougheed Highway and Willingdon, engineering firm Integral Group recommended he look at incorporating energy-saving measures from the ground up. The result for just the first building, revealed through an energy-modeling study funded by BC Hydro’s New Construction Program, is an estimated energy savings of 1.16 million kWh per year – which means it will use about 26 per cent less energy than a similar building built without those energy-saving measures. “The engineers pulled out elements I wouldn’t have thought of,” Bosa says. “I thought I knew quite a bit, but they found more savings than I would ever have on my own. I’ve recommended the New Construction Program to other developers. I’ve told them, you need energy efficiency for marketability, so you might as well take advantage of the incentives BC Hydro offers to do an energy study and install the energy- saving measures.” Are you looking for new ways to build better? Visit bchydro.com/construction or call 1 866 522 4713 .
A13-508
as soc ia t ion notes
Council Seeks Member Feedback on Bylaw 3 Amendments Council is seeking member feedback on proposed amendments to Bylaw 3 – Election to Council. Bylaw 3 directs how the Council nomination and election process is to be managed, including the structure of the Nominating Committee and the procedures it must follow in nominating a slate of candidates for election to Council; how members may be nominated by the membership at large; and how the voting process and reporting of results must be done. This bylaw has not been revised for many years and as such it requires modernization to better reflect the current profile of our membership as well as best practice for regulatory bodies and the needs of the association. This is your opportunity to ask questions and to offer comment on any- thing that might concern you regarding the proposed amendments prior to it being put forward for a formal vote. Council is requesting feedback on the proposed amendments by May 16, 2014 , with the intention of seeking member ratification in the fall of 2014. Questions and comments can be sent to Janet Sinclair, Chief Operating Officer, at jsinclair@apeg.bc.ca. One of the intents of the current bylaw is to provide disciplinary diversity on Council, though in practice this is not achieved as elected members of Council predominantly practise in areas related to civil engineering. Areas such as electrical, mechanical, chemical, software and high tech are chronically underrepresented. The bylaw also does not reflect the possible desire for other forms of diversity such as professional and employment background, gender and ethnicity. Furthermore, as practice discipline is defined within the bylaw it becomes the predominant feature that guides the Nominating Committee in its selection of candidates despite the under- lying intent often not being met. It is therefore believed that by being less prescriptive regarding disciplinary diversity, the ability to build a diverse Council, including disciplinary diversity, will be enhanced. Broadening the Nominating Committee Network Currently the branches appoint eight members of the Nominating Committee and Council appoints three. The Immediate Past President serves as Chair of the Committee. An increase to the number of Council appointees to the Committee is recommended to broaden the reach to potential candidates. It is intended that additional Council appointees to the Committee be high profile, senior members with extensive networks. Branch appointees will continue to form the majority of the membership. Housekeeping Other proposed amendments allow for modernization or articulation of current practices such requiring candidates and nominees to be members in good standing , and for the results of the election to be presented to the President or Registrar by the Chief Scrutineer rather than the Chair of the Ballot Counting Committee, which no longer exists due to electronic voting processes. The ability of results to be announced at the AGM by someone other than the Chair is also being recommended. Proposed Amendments Enhancing Diversity
APEGBC Staff Appointment
APEGBC is pleased to announce the appointment of Efrem Swartz, LLB, to the position of Director of Legislation, Ethics and Compliance. As Director, Mr. Swartz will oversee the effective management of the investigation, assessment and resolution of com- plaints against individuals practising professional engineering and geosci- ence in British Columbia. He is also responsible for the education and promotion of ethical practice and for the interpretation and enforcement of the Engineers and Geoscientists Act . Mr. Swartz first joined APEGBC in November 2013 as the Acting Director of Legislation, Ethics and Compliance. Previously, he founded Swartz Law Corporation, an independent firm specializing in professional regulation, administrative law and civil litigation. He provided a wide range of legal services to many different professional regulatory bodies. Mr. Swartz received both his LLB and Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia.
8
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
APEGBC Update on Government Relations Activities On February 24 and 25, 2014, APEGBC hosted government networking receptions with the BC Liberal Caucus and the BC NDP Official Opposition Caucus in Victoria. The purpose of these events was to provide an informal forumwhere Council and senior staff could interact with Ministers and MLAs to share the ways that APEGBC works on behalf of the people of BC and to hear concerns and answer questions posed by officials. President Michael Bapty, P.Eng., FEC, provided welcoming remarks to both groups and Vice President Dr. John Clague, P.Geo., FGC, gave an insightful presentation about the potential impact of an earthquake in BC, how government actions have improved preparedness, and what other steps legislators should consider to help prepare for a major seismic event. Hon. Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, brought greetings on behalf of Premier Christy Clark and the BC Government and highlighted the numerous ways the professions are critical to the economy, with specific mention of natural gas, transportation infrastructure and mining. The BC Liberal reception was extremely well-attended with 32 caucus mem- bers present throughout the evening, including: Minister Bond; Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation; Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations; Peter Fassbender, Minister of Education; Suzanne Anton, Minister of Justice and Attorney General; Andrew Wilkinson, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizen’s Services; John Rustad, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; Coralee Oakes, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development; Don McRae, Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation; Ralph Sultan, P.Eng., MLA West Vancouver-Capilano; Michelle Stilwell, Parliamentary Secretary for Healthy Living; Linda Larson, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors; Richard Lee, Parliamentary Secretary for Asia Pacific; Norm Letnick, Parliamentary Secretary for Intergovernmental Relations; Marc Dalton, Parliamentary Secretary for Independent Schools; Jane Thornthwaite, Parliamentary Secretary for Student Support; John Yap, Parliamentary Secretary for Liquor Policy Reform; Donna Barnett, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development; Darryl Plecas, Parliamentary Secretary for Crime Reduction; Laurie Throness, Parliamentary Secretary for Corrections; Dan Ashton, Parliamentary Secretary for Core Review; Jordan Sturdy, Parliamentary Secretary for Transportation; Linda Reimer, Parliamentary Secretary for Communities; Douglas Horne, Deputy Speaker; Mike Morris, MLA Prince George Mackenzie; Simon Gibson, MLA Abbotsford Mission; Jackie Tegart, MLA Fraser Nicola; Marvin Hunt, MLA Surrey Panorama; Sam Sullivan, MLA Vancouver False Creek; Mike Bernier, MLA Peace River South; John Martin, MLA Chilliwack; and Doug Bing, MLA Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows. The BC NDP breakfast reception saw 11 MLAs in attendance (Harry Bains, MLA Surrey-Newton; Raj Chouhan, MLA Burnaby-Edmonds; Kathy Corrigan, MLA Burnaby-Deer Lake; Doug Donaldson, MLA Stikine; David Eby, MLA Vancouver- Point Grey; Mable Elmore, MLA Vancouver-Kensington; Rob Fleming, MLA Victoria-Swan Lake; Scott Fraser, MLA Alberni-Pacific Rim; Lana Popham, MLA Saanich South; Bruce Ralston, MLA Surrey-Whalley; Bill Routley, MLA Cowichan Valley). David Eby, Advanced Education Critic and MLA for Vancouver-Point Grey brought greetings on behalf of the official opposition and thanked the association for the work done on behalf of the people of BC, noting that the professions are strong advocates for the public interest, in particular with regard to seismic safety in BC’s schools and foreign-trained accreditation. Engineers and geoscientists play a key role in the public safety and well-being, and APEGBC is committed to working constructively with governments at all levels to assist in carrying out this responsibility. For more information on APEGBC’s government rela- tions activities, contact Janet Sinclair, Chief Operating Officer, at jsinclair@apeg.bc.ca.
Dr. John Clague, P.Geo., FGC, APEGBC Vice President, presenting to the group.
Left to right: MLA Richard Lee, Mike Waberski, Hon. Steve Thompson, Ken Laloge, CA, Tony Chong
Left to right: Mike Bapty, P.Eng., FEC, Hon. Shirley Bond, Ann English, P.Eng.
9
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
as soc ia t ion notes Receive Innovation by E-mail Did you know that you can opt to receive Innovation magazine online in lieu of having a hardcopy of the magazine mailed to you? If you opt in for this service, you will receive a noti- fication e-mail every time the maga- zine is published with links to access the latest issue. The magazine can be viewed on a desktop or mobile device, or downloaded for later reading. To make the switch, simply update your communication prefer- ences by signing into the APEGBC member portal at apeg.bc.ca/For- Members/Member-Portal/Update- Communication-Preferences, or contact Michelle Grady, Managing Editor, at mgrady@apeg.bc.ca or 604.412.4893.
Scholarships for Post-Secondary
Entrance and Transfer The APEGBC Foundation is offering a number of entrance scholarships to BC high school graduates entering engineering or geoscience programs, and engineering transfer programs at BC universities, colleges and university colleges. The entrance scholarships are valued at $2,500 each, and transfer scholarships at $1,000 each. Scholarship selection is based on grade 12 academics, extracurricu- lar activities, references, financial need and the student’s written statement outlining reasons for entering the profession of engineering or geoscience. Other scholarships awarded to applicants will be taken into consideration. The deadline for application is Thursday, June 26, 2014. For more information and for scholarship applica- tion forms, visit apeg.bc.ca/ For-Students/Scholarships, or contact Andrea Wilson, Student Program Coordinator, at awilson@apeg.bc.ca.
2013/2014 Project Highlights Call for Photo Submissions The Project Highlights pictorial feature, published annually in the July/August In selecting project submissions for the pictorial, the key considerations for the Editorial Board are: · Projects that reflect the diversity
issue of Innovation, showcases the diverse activities of BC’s professional engineers and geoscientists both at home and abroad. Submissions relating to all engineering and geoscience disci- plines are encouraged. Members or companies are invited to submit photographs of projects undertaken during the past 12 months, within or outside BC, employing APEGBC members. Photographs should be submitted as high-resolution digital image files. Before submitting your project for consideration, please view the details on submission requirements, including specifications for digital images, at apeg.bc.ca/pictorial. Photos must be accompanied by a project description of 100-150 words, identifying the owners and professionals involved where possible. Members are also encouraged to describe the innovative or sustainable aspects of their particular project.
of the work performed by members; · Representation from a wide variety of employers of APEGBC members; · Sustainability features; and · Visual appeal. Due to space limitations, Innovation is unable to print every submission received, and only one submission per company will be accepted, except where space permits. Members working for large companies are recommended to coordinate their project submissions to avoid multiple or duplicate submissions. The deadline for photographs, complete with captions, is Friday, May 9, 2013. Please direct all submis- sions to Innovation at the association office in Burnaby by mail, or by e-mail at pictorial@apeg.bc.ca. Questions about the pictorial feature may be directed to Michelle Grady, Managing Editor, Innovation, at 604.412.4893 or mgrady@apeg.bc.ca.
10 M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
Call for Nominations: Forest Engineering Award of Excellence The Forest Engineering Award of Excellence—sponsored jointly by APEGBC and the Association of BC Forest Professionals (ABCFP)—recognizes excellence and promotes cooperation and leadership in forest engineering in the broadest sense. Nominees may be individuals, organizations or associations responsible for projects that demonstrate or represent outstanding accomplishments in forest engineering. Individuals must be members of either ABCFP or APEGBC. Organizations and associations must be recognized as being associated with professional forestry, professional engineering or professional geoscience. To be eligible, projects must have been completed within the past two years and carried out by, or under the supervision of, a member of either association. Nominees must be either residents of BC or work for a BC-based firm, or the work must have been carried out in BC. A management, academic or research contribution, or the life’s work of an individual, may also be considered. Nominations must contain the names and signatures of three registered members of either association, accompanied by a one-page statement of nomination outlining the reason(s) for the nomination, and supporting information such as CVs, project outlines, letters of reference and news clippings. Award nominations are accepted throughout the year, and the presentation of the award alternates between associations. Details on the award criteria and nomination forms are available on the website at apeg.bc.ca/For-Members/Awards/Forest-Engineering-Award-of-Excellence- Nomination. Further questions may be directed to Laurel Buss, APEGBC Communications Officer, at lbuss@apeg.bc.ca or 604.412.6052.
Innovation Magazine Seeks Member Submissions The Editorial Board for Innovation meets periodically throughout the year to discuss the upcoming issues of the magazine and brainstorm ideas for features that suit each bi-monthly theme and interest our readership. These meetings often produce many interesting ideas, including but not limited to 3D printing technol- ogy, ship building in BC, a retrospec- tive article featuring past prominent engineering and geoscience projects, disaster recovery and relief projects, diversity in the professions, special effects projects and cognitive biases within the professions. Curiosity runs high when it comes to topics of interest for the magazine. As a wide and varied member- ship, there is a greater opportunity to include a broader range of material covering many topics that would in turn reflect more vastly the vari- ous specializations and paths of the professions. To that end, the Editorial Board would like to appeal to our members and colleagues in engineer- ing and geoscience to step forward to submit stories that are relevant and topical to a variety of sectors. The May/June issue will focus on Innovations Made in BC, while the July/August issue will host the proj- ect pictorial (see page 10 for more information) and we welcome the submission of feature-length stories for inclusion. If you have expertise or some opinions or stories that would be relevant to either of these issues, submit your ideas to Michelle Grady, Managing Editor, Innovation , at mgrady@apeg.bc.ca. For the edito- rial guidelines, visit apeg.bc.ca/ innovation-editorial. Additionally, if you are interested in participating as a member of the Editorial Board for Innovation and contributing to the conversation, please e-mail the Managing Editor with a current CV and a small sum- mary of your interest in the board.
Johanna Goodyear | Dreamstime Stock Photos
11
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
c ounc i l repor t as soc ia t ion notes
Volunteers Honoured with Geoscientists Canada Distinction This past year, a number of APEGBC members were inducted as fellows of Geoscientists Canada. For more information, visit ccpg.ca. Narayan Abhyankar, P.Eng./P.Geo., FEC, FGC Brian Abraham, P.Geo., FGC Robert Affleck, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Janet Benjamin, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Paul Blanchard, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Oliver Bonham, P.Geo., FGC Lindsay Bottomer, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Michael Bovis, FGC John Bremner, P.Eng., FGC (Hon) George Cavey, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Michael Church, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) John Clague, P.Geo., FGC Jennifer Clarke, P.Geo., FGC Francis Denton, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Stephen Cook, P.Geo., FGC Robert Dickin, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Bruce Downing, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Derek Doyle, P.Eng., FGC (Hon) Richard Fletcher, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Peter Friz, P.Geo., FGC Anne Garrett, P.Eng., FGC (Hon) Robert Gerath, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) WilliamGilmartin, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Allan Good, P.Eng./P.Geo., FEC, FGC Robert Gray, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Richard Hancock, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Jenna-Lee Hardy, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Edward Hauptmann, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) John Haythorne, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Catherine Hickson, P.Geo., FGC Jeffrey Holm, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Oldrich Hungr, P.Eng./P.Geo., FGC Michael Isaacson, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Mabo Ito, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Lionel Jackson, P.Geo., FGC Felix Kaminski, P.Geo., FGC Ward Kilby, P.Geo., FGC Russell Kinghorn, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Garth Kirkham, P.Geo., FGC Paul Kompauer, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Kathleen Kompauer, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Jules Lajoie, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Mei Kuen Li, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Patrick McAndless, P.Geo., FGC Robert McCandless, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Dennis McJunkin, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) James Moors, P.Eng., FEC (Hon), FGC (Hon) JohnMurray, P.Geo., FGC John Perry, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Gregory Reid, P.Eng./P.Geo., FEC, FGC Michael Roberts, P.Geo., FGC James Robertson, P.Geo., FGC Thomas Schroeter, P.Eng./P.Geo., FGC Alastair Sinclair, P.Eng./P.Geo., FEC, FGC
Glen Singleton, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Barry Smee, P.Geo., FGC Timothy Smith, P.Geo., FGC, Eng.L., FEC (Hon) Colin Smith, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Gordon Springate Sr., P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Robert Stevens, P.Geo., FGC Garry Stevenson, P.Eng./P.Geo., FGC Philip Sunderland, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) BruceThomson, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) LindaThorstad, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) Kevin Turner, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) Calvin VanBuskirk, P.Eng./P.Geo., FEC, FGC Douglas VanDine, P.Eng./P.Geo., FEC, FGC Brent Ward, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon) JohnWatson, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon) DavidWilford, P.Geo., FGC Robert Wilson, P.Eng./P.Geo., FEC, FGC
12 M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
prac t i ce ma t ter s
Report Finds Unsafe Bridges on Forest Roads APEGBC and the Association of BC Forest Professionals (ABCFP) are concerned about the findings of the Forest Practices Board (FPB), which recently released a report on the planning, design and construction of forest bridges. The report is the result of an investigation that examined whether forest bridges are meeting the legislated requirements and conforming to standards of professional practice. After investigating 216 bridges constructed throughout the Province in the last three years, the report indicates that there are numerous non- compliances with legislation and over two dozen bridges that may not be safe for industrial use. As the independent regulators of professional forestry and professional engineering through the administration of the Foresters Act and Engineers and Geoscientists Act respectively, both APEGBC and ABCFP expect develop- ment projects to be conducted safely, professionally and sustainably. The two organizations responded publicly in a news release on March 5. The FPB report identified that though both APEGBC and ABCFP have provided professional practice guidelines ( Guidelines for Professional Services in the Forest Sector—Crossings ) for bridge planning, design and construction to their members, not all licensees and professionals are following the guidelines. These guidelines were published in 2005 and revised in 2008.
In the coming weeks APEGBC and ABCFP will be actively determining the facts involving professional practice or unsafe conditions that may have contributed to the problem bridge structures identified by the FPB. Where appropriate, APEGBC and ABCFP will follow up with their respective enforcement and discipline systems. In addition, the professions will update the current professional practice guidelines, identify the necessary skills and competencies required for this work, and undertake specialized professional development with members in this area of practice. For professional practice inquiries, contact Peter Mitchell, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon), APEGBC Director, Professional Practice, Standards and Development, at 604.412.4853 or mitchell@apeg.bc.ca.
Sequencing and Dating of Letters of Assurance Gilbert Laroque, CD, P.Eng., LLB; Associate Director, Professional Practice The Letters of Assurance provided in Division C, Part 2 of the BC Building Code and the Vancouver Building Bylaw are legal accountability documents intended to clearly identify the roles and responsibilities of the key stakeholders in a building construc- tion project. Uniform, mandatory Letters of Assurance have been included as Schedules in the Building Code since December 1992. In addition to ascertaining the division of responsibilities between engineers and architects, the Letters of Assurance guarantee that a building has been designed and constructed in compliance with the requirement of the applicable building code, and that the required professional obligations have been fulfilled. Confirming these assur- ances is the function of Schedule C-A—Assurance of Coordination of Professional Field Review and Schedule C-B—Assurance of Professional Field Review and Compliance. For each building project, Schedule C-A and Schedules C-B (at the rate of one Schedule C-B for each previously submitted
Schedule B) must be submitted by the applicable professionals after completion of the project but before an occupancy permit is issued or a final inspection is made by the authority having juris- diction. Since the authorities having jurisdiction usually require Schedules A and B prior to issuing a building permit and any work commencing, it logically follows that the issuance of Schedules C-A and C-B cannot precede the issuance of a building permit. As their name implies, Letters of Assurance are a professional declaration. They are not just a clerical exercise. While it may seem administratively expeditious to seal and date Schedules C-A and C-B in advance of project completion, such practice is inappropriate. In particular, the sequencing of Schedule C-A and C-B must reflect the chronology of a building project and be issued and dated to indicate that the work was performed and the associated professional services provided after the required building permit were in place.
i n n ova t i o n Ma r ch / A p r i l 2 0 1 4 13
c ounc i l repor t
Responding to a request put forward by the City of Vancouver, APEGBC Council endorsed the Letters of Assurance for the 2014 Vancouver Building Bylaw as recommended by the Building Codes Committee. To date, the Architectural Institute of British Columbia has also confirmed its endorsement of the Letters of Assurance. The letters have also been endorsed by other authorities having similar jurisdiction, such as the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas. Sustainable Financial Management Policy Amended The Sustainable Financial Management Policy is a model for APEGBC’s processes for planning and reporting and enables its stakeholders to hold the association accountable for its decisions and actions. Council approved a wording change to the Sustainable Financial Management Policy recognizing that as some programs cannot by nature be financially self-sustaining, the wording of the policy should reflect this. This applies largely to programs that do not in themselves generate revenue. All other programs with direct revenues should strive to be financially self-sustaining on a direct cost basis. Council approved the wording change. Budget Guidelines and Process Council reviewed and approved the process and the principles that will guide budget preparation. Council is currently developing a budget to support the Strategic Plan for 2014 – 2017. At its January meeting, Council reviewed and approved the budget process and the principles that will guide budget preparation. During the creation of the budget for 2014 – 2017, the budget will be structured according to the guidelines established by Council, and will be reviewed and further developed with input from the Executive Committee of Council. It will then be presented to Council for approval. Key principles for budget development include: • Sustainable Financial Management will be the foun- dation for guiding budget preparation. • Strive to keep the overall budget increase to less than 5% each year. • Strive to minimize any annual professional member fee increase for 2015 – 2017. • Review opportunities for a decrease in registration- related ancillary fees. • Review potential changes to prior budget for effi- ciencies by program and department; new program initiatives; non-discretionary budget changes. • Review and assess the requirements and appropriate level of funding for the General Operating Fund, Property, Equipment and Systems Replacement Fund and the Legal and Insurance Fund.
APEGBC’s Council meets throughout the year to conduct the business of association governance. The following are the highlights of the January 24, 2014, meeting. Presentation by SFU Dean of Applied Science Dr. Nimal Rajapakse, P.Eng., Dean of SFU’s Faculty of Applied Science, presented to Council on the number of applicants, students and graduates of engineering programs at SFU. He also shared information about current research and education initiatives at the university, as well as proposed plans for the future, particularly expansion for the Surrey campus. Policy Amended for Expedited Return to Practice The Return to Practice Policy has now been amended to allow the expedited return to practice of former members who have maintained practising registration or licence with particular institutions outside of Canada. These institutions include the US State Board of Licensure/Registration for Professional Engineers or Geoscientists, Engineers Australia, the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, Engineers Ireland or Geologists of Ireland. Professional Practice Committee Reporting Structure and Appointment Length Revised APEGBC’s Professional Practice Committee advises Council on quality management issues impacting the practice of professional engineering and professional geoscience. It also oversees the organizational professional risk management and quality assurance programs. Council recently approved proposed changes to the terms of reference for the Professional Practice Committee. Arising from the recommendations of the committee itself, the changes address appointment of the committee Chair, as well as the reporting structure for all practice committees through the Professional Practice Committee. Now, motions and recommendations from practice and building- related committees will be reviewed by the Professional Practice Committee before coming before Council for consideration. APEGBC Endorses Letters of Assurance for 2014 Vancouver Building Bylaw The City of Vancouver has approved a new edition of its Vancouver Building Bylaw to become effective in 2014. As part of the update from the 2007 edition, the City also updated the Letters of Assurance found in Division C, Part 2 of the Bylaw . While reflecting the latest changes to the Bylaw , these Letters of Assurance are substantially similar to those endorsed by APEGBC in the 2007 edition.
14
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
• Let staffing levels be generally determined by autho- rized program improvements, growth andmember- ship count. Revisions to Election to Council Policy and Bylaw APEGBC’s Election Policy provides guidance beyond that provided in the Act and bylaws to direct how the nominating process, election brochure, ballot, ballot count and publication of results are managed. This policy is reviewed on a yearly basis so that learnings from previous years can be incorporated. At its January meeting, Council approved changes to the Election Policy. Changes to this policy include the addition of a statement to ensure the independence of the nomination of candidates by 25 name process, as well as wording to clarify that all nominees to the Nominating Committee are members in good standing. An amendment to APEGBC’s Bylaw 3 – Election to Council (see page 8) was also approved in principle at the meeting. The changes to the bylaw wording are intended to modernize the bylaw to better reflect the current profile of APEGBC’s membership, best practices for regulatory bodies and the needs of the association. These changes include the requirement that one member of the Nominating Committee be a
P.Geo. and that one of the candidates nominated by the Standing Awards Committee also be a P.Geo. The proposed bylaw amendment will now undergo a consultation process with relevant stakeholders and will then be developed for review and approval by the Executive Committee. This process is expected to be completed in time to allow member ratification to be sought in the fall. Communication of the 2014 – 2017 Strategic Plan At its November 29, 2013, meeting, Council passed a motion “that the components of the 2014 – 2017 Strategic Framework including the vision, mission, values, goals, outcomes and objectives be approved.” In preparation for its effective date of July 1, 2014, staff have created a communications plan to inform internal and external stakeholders of APEGBC’s 2014 – 2017 Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan will be made publicly available and APEGBC staff will communicate information about the plan to members as well as to external stakeholder groups through a variety of means. APEGBC members will be fully engaged in delivering the Strategic Plan through the branches, committees and divisions.
APPOINTMENTS
EXTERNAL APEGBC Director to the Vancouver Airport Authority Ken Goosen, P.Eng. Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board Dr. Michael Isaacson, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon.)
INTERNAL Building Codes Committee John Buscemi, P.Eng. Ian Graham, P.Eng. Consulting Practice Committee Sean Liaw, P.Eng. Discipline Committee Upul Atukorala, P.Eng. Editorial Board Cassandra Hall, P.Geo./P.Eng. Ivo Kokan, P.Eng. Bruce Thomson, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon.) Mentoring Committee Kathy Tarnai-Lokhorst, P.Eng.
Mike Knapp, P.Eng. Shirley McLaren Ferenc Pataki, P.Eng. Jon Perry, P.Eng. Jeff Pringle, P.Eng. Don Shaw, P.Eng. Pat Stephenson, P.Geo.
Ian Stewart, P.Eng. Greg Thorne, P.Eng. Standing Awards Committee Ash Parameswaran, P.Eng. Sustainability Committee Canisius Chan, P.Eng. Chad Larson, P.Eng. Terry Molstad, P.Eng. Technical Review Board Tim Spiegel, QS Temporary Works Committee Bill Chan, P.Eng.
Organizational Quality Management Committee James Blake, P.Eng. F. Greg Clarke, P.Eng., FEC Frank Huber, P.Eng.
15
M a r ch/A p r i l 2 014
i n n o v a t i o n
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker