Introduction
This GLOMACS Building Pathology and Defect Investigation training course provides professionals with the practical knowledge and systematic techniques required to identify, investigate and diagnose defects affecting buildings and built assets. Understanding the causes and mechanisms of defects is essential for making sound condition assessments, determining appropriate remedial actions and preventing recurring problems.
Over three days, participants will explore common structural and non-structural defects, inspection and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques, condition assessment, root-cause analysis and repair strategies. The training places strong emphasis on practical application through defect investigation exercises and case studies, enabling participants to develop a structured approach to assessing building conditions and recommending effective remediation solutions.
This GLOMACS Building Pathology and Defect Investigation training course will highlight:
- Systematic identification and diagnosis of structural and non-structural defects
- NDT applications for assessing heritage concrete structures
- Challenges and methodologies for heritage concrete condition assessment
- Root-cause analysis and defect investigation methodologies
- Repair, remediation and preventive strategies for building defects
Objectives
At the end of this Building Pathology and Defect Investigation training course, participants will be able to:
- Identify and classify common structural and non-structural building defects
- Evaluate NDT applications for heritage concrete condition assessment
- Analyse defect symptoms and determine their underlying root causes
- Assess building condition and evaluate the severity of identified defects
- Develop appropriate repair, remediation and preventive strategies
Training Methodology
This highly practical training course combines concise facilitator-led presentations with guided discussions, inspection-based exercises, defect diagnosis activities, root-cause analysis and practical case studies. Participants will work through realistic building defect scenarios to interpret symptoms, assess condition, identify likely causes and develop appropriate repair and remediation strategies. The methodology is designed to encourage active participation and provide direct opportunities to apply investigation techniques to real-world building pathology challenges.
Organisational Impact
The organisation will benefit from more systematic defect investigations, improved asset condition assessment, better-informed repair decisions and reduced risk of recurring building defects and unnecessary remedial costs.
Personal Impact
Participants will develop stronger technical confidence in inspecting buildings, diagnosing defects, analysing root causes and recommending practical repair and remediation solutions.
Who should Attend?
This GLOMACS Building Pathology and Defect Investigation training course is suitable for professionals involved in building inspection, facilities management, asset management, construction, maintenance and engineering, including:
- Civil and structural engineers
- Building inspectors and surveyors
- Facilities and property management professionals
- Maintenance and asset management personnel
- Construction and project management professionals
- Consultants involved in building condition assessment and defect investigation
- Technical professionals responsible for repair and remediation works
Building Pathology, Defect Identification and Diagnosis
- Fundamentals of building pathology and defect investigation
- Common structural and non-structural building defects
- Defects in concrete, masonry, steel and building envelopes
- Moisture-related defects, dampness, leakage and deterioration
- Defect identification, classification and diagnosis
- Defect mechanisms and deterioration processes
- Systematic approaches to building defect investigation
Heritage Concrete Condition Assessment, NDT and Root-Cause Analysis
- Visual inspection, defect mapping and condition documentation
- The role of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) in heritage concrete assessment
- NDT methods for evaluating concrete condition and deterioration
- Challenges in the condition assessment of heritage concrete structures
- Methodologies for condition assessment of heritage concrete structures
- Interpreting inspection findings and NDT results
- Root-cause analysis and severity assessment of concrete defects
Repair, Remediation and Defect Management
- Principles of building defect repair and remediation
- Selection of appropriate repair materials and techniques
- Repair considerations for deteriorated and heritage concrete structures
- Compatibility, durability and conservation considerations
- Preventive maintenance and control of defect recurrence
- Assessing repair effectiveness and post-repair condition
- Reporting, prioritisation and management of remedial works
- Upon successful completion of this training course, GLOMACS Certificate will be awarded to the delegates. Continuing Professional Education credits (CPE): In accordance with the standards of the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, one CPE credit is granted per 50 minutes of attendance
Endorsed Education Provider