Key People
Katy O’Brien
ASSOCIATE | GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER
- EDUCATION: B Eng (Hons) Geotechnical Engineering | Pr Eng
- JOINED ARQ: 2014
- DIVISION: Geotech
Katy is an Associate Geotechnical Engineer at ARQ Geotech (Pty) Ltd, where she plays a lead role in advanced numerical stability assessments of complex geotechnical conditions, with a particular focus on tailings storage facilities (TSFs). Her work is grounded in the application of critical state soil mechanics, often addressing the potential for liquefaction arising from credible triggering events. This area of practice represents a continually evolving field at the forefront of geotechnical engineering.
Katy has taken a leading role in numerous independent reviews of TSFs, including Dam Safety Reviews (DSRs) aligned with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM). Her responsibilities extend beyond assessment to include the evaluation and ongoing support of operational and management-level critical controls that underpin the safe performance of TSFs.
In addition to her work on tailings facilities, Katy has led and contributed to a wide range of geotechnical investigations, analyses, and designs. Her project experience includes shallow foundation systems, slope stability assessments, earth retaining structures, earth embankment dams, and infrastructure related to the mining sector.


Dams & Hydro
Geotech
Advanced Numerical Analysis