They won’t be the first things that come to mind when you think of relaxing reads while kicking back on the beach or at the campsite. But keep an open mind and you could fill yours with the latest techniques to make you better when you return to work.
MOPs, known as Manuals of Practice, or more formally as ASCE Manuals and Reports on Engineering Practice, provide in-depth practical information on a specific topic, including methods and technologies used. They are developed by ASCE technical committees as directed by an ASCE institute, Center for Technical Advancement division, or the Committee on Professional Advancement.
Enhancing each MOP is a peer review by a “blue ribbon” panel of experts, before final approval is sought from the requesting body. This quality review has made MOPs valued by engineers and academics.
So here as recommended by ASCE Publications are five useful and timely MOPs, suitable for downloading and reading on your portable device, as you keep it clean of sand or dirt.
1. Waterfront Facilities Inspection and Assessment, MOP 130, Second Edition.
Covers everything from the initial scoping of a waterfront inspection project to conducting the inspection with documentation and reporting. The new second edition updates all sections plus new details on composite materials and the latest innovations in inspection tools and technologies.
2. Substation Structure Design Guide, MOP 113, Second Edition.
Documents and provides guidance and recommendations for the design of outdoor electrical substation structures. The second edition provides an overview of structure types and typical electrical equipment.
3. Manhole Inspection and Rehabilitation, MOP 92, Third Edition.
This trenchless technology resource aids in inventory and asset management, assessment and condition of manhole structures, and in deciding the best rehabilitation materials and methods for the job. The third edition features the latest rehabilitation methods and technologies and stresses condition assessment standardization.
4. Structural Condition Assessment of Existing Buildings, MOP 158.
Here are the current suggested guidelines for assessing the structural performance of existing buildings, including selected materials and other assessment areas. The manual is an easier-to-use, more accessible reformatting of the guidance in standard ASCE 11-99, for structural engineers and officials concerned with existing structures.
5. Geotechnical Baseline Reports, MOP 154.
Explains the importance of geotechnical baseline reports, with guidance on what should and should not be included when completing the report. GBRs allocate and manage subsurface construction risks. The manual suggests topics to consider and how to present them, with examples, so owners understand who bears the financial responsibility.
Not finding what you are looking for? See the full collection of Manuals of Practice in the ASCE Library.
Happy reading – enjoy expanding what you know!
