Technical Seminar A technical seminar entitled “Forensic Investigation and Remedial Measures for Groundwater Leakage in Basement of a Large Building Complex” was conducted by Dr. Muhammad Tariq Chaudhary of Kuwait University. The seminar was held at the Offices of Gulf Consult on 22nd March, 2017.

Dr. Chaudhary presented the forensic investigations that were undertaken to assess the structural integrity and functional viability of the basement of a 40,000 m² building complex that, after occupancy, was affected by a 3.0 m rise in groundwater level.

Visual observations, in situ testing of structural components, analytical studies using commercially available finite element analysis programs and sound engineering judgement were utilized to carry out the assessment and appraisal of structural integrity and condition.

Functional viability assessment of the impact of groundwater leakage was done based on BS 8102 guidelines. It was concluded that the basement structure had to be strengthened, in up to 25% of its plan area, to withstand the applied hydrostatic pressure.

Various options for retrofitting the deficient structural components and articulation details were examined; and technical details were developed for a costeffective solution.

ACI International Certification Due to the increase in the number of international construction projects in Kuwait, many companies showed interest in procuring ACI International Certification.

ACI-KC, in collaboration with Advanced Construction Technology Services (ACTS) organised two certification programmes, which were respectively held on 3rd-4th October, 2017 and on 16th-17th October, 2017.

Each programme comprised of a day of training and one for testing. ACI-KC members were granted a 10% discount on the cost of the training. Eight Engineers were awarded ACI Concrete Field Testing Grade I Certificates.

Consultants' Projects ACI-KC’s current President, Aziz Mamuji, has initiated a seminar-cum-presentation programme, whereby local Consulting Offices are invited to present any one of their significant or landmark projects. The presentations, either of projects under design or in the construction phase, are preferably to be made at the premises of respective Consulting Offices. The first presentation under this initiative was made by Gulf Consult on 20th November, 2017.

Aziz Mamuji outlined the background to the Seera Complex project, and traced its development from inception to completion of the design process. The Seera Complex, a project initiated by Kuwait Awqaf Public Foundation (KAPF), is a museum and research facility focusing on the life and times of the Prophet of Islam. The project involved extensive consultation with a committee of Islamic Scholars appointed by KAPF; as well as the creation of a wide range of exhibits to graphically.

In many cases, the key aspects of the Prophet’s Life and his personal attributes are presented in an interactive fashion.