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Introduction to Culvert, screen and outfall training

The design and operation of culverts, screens and drainage outfalls is critical to effective flood risk management and drainage. Inadequate design can lead to unintended consequences such as flooding and environmental damage. This training, based on the new Culvert, screen and outfall manual (C786),  provides guidance on the whole-life cycle of these assets recognising that there is an enormous stock of them of various types, sizes, age and condition.

The course provides asset managers and designers with a comprehensive understanding of the whole life cycle of culverts, screens and outfalls, giving guidance on inspection, performance assessment, maintenance and renewal as well as design of new structures. The training is underpinned by the principles of whole-life asset management and a systems approach to drainage. Guidance will be given on cutting edge hydraulic assessment techniques, taking account of developments in hydrology and hydraulic analysis.

Who should attend

The training will be relevant to infrastructure asset managers, flood risk and drainage engineers, landscape architects, planners, architects, and those working in or with environmental regulators, local authorities, highway authorities, developers, consultants and contractors.

Why should you attend?

  • keep up-to-date with new legislation and permit requirements
  • learn the most up-to-date design concepts and additional culvert hydraulic design considerations
  • understand key principles, aims and how to apply the CDOG approach using real life case studies
  • gain an understanding of methods for assessing the need for a security or debris screen
  • explore updated flow estimation methods and guidance on screen bar spacing and required effective area
  • learn about updated methods of hydraulic performance analysis of screen
  • share experiences and knowledge with our expert trainers and other delegates
  • the two day training provides 12 hours CPD accreditation

Newly updated Culverts, screen and outfall manual (C786) is available to download freely.

This manual replaces two previous guidance documents, CIRIA C689 Culvert design and operation guide (Balkham et al, 2010) and the Environment Agency Trash and security screen guide (Graham et al, 2009). It also supplements the outfall and culvert design sections of the UK Design manual for roads and bridges (DMRB). 




More information

To find out more information and to discuss in house options, please contact Nipa Patel.
Meet the Culvert design and operation trainer


Amanda Kitchen |Technical Director, JBA Consulting 
Amanda is a chartered civil engineer with 23 years’ experience in river/canal engineering and flood risk management, and specialist interests in culverts, screens, scour and river weirs.   


Jeremy Benn | Executive Chairman, JBA Consulting
Jeremy has 37+ years’ water engineering experience both in UK and overseas that has included the feasibility and engineering design of flood alleviation schemes, reservoirs and many hydraulic structures such as gates, weirs and culverts. He was editor of the Culvert, Screen & Outfall Manual (C786).


"Excellent course for looking at the underpinning considerations for culvert design. Good for Local Authority staff with drainage responsibilities."
Mid Sussex Dist Council

"Very useful course for authorities taking on new responsibilities under the FWMA."
Surrey CC

"Good intense course with competent trainers well versed in their subjects."
SAC Consulting