Field missions
Field investigation missions visit the earthquake site about 2 – 3 weeks after the earthquake and stay for about 7 days.
It is usually not practical to visit the site any earlier as the emergency relief operations are in progress and it takes time for the team to be selected and for academics’ funding applications to be processed by EPSRC. An essential part of the mission is that the team produce a report of their findings.
Team selection
Part of EEFIT’s role is to train engineers in field work, so the team usually consists of both academics and practitioners, representing a range of expertise and experience.
EEFIT members are given priority when selecting the mission team, although non-members of EEFIT will be considered (they will need to join EEFIT).
Once the EEFIT Management Committee has decided that a mission would be appropriate, EEFIT members will receive an email inviting expressions of interest in joining the mission team.
Members are asked to detail their background, skills and availability.
The EEFIT secretary acts as the contact point whilst applications are being considered. All applicants will be informed of progress.
When the team leader has been appointed they take over co-ordinating arrangements.
Team members have to make their own travel arrangements and finance the trip themselves although academics usually apply for funding from EPSRC to cover air flights, hotels, equipment etc.
Dissemination
Soon after return from the mission, the team present their preliminary findings to the wider EEFIT membership at a meeting at The Institution of Structural Engineers.
All mission reports can be accessed via the reports page.