6 STAGES INVOLVED IN SITE INVESTIGATION

1. DESK STUDY

This is essentially the collection of a wide variety of information relating to the site. eg : maps, drawings,local authority information; geological maps, memoirs, records; details of utilities.

2.SITE RECONNAISSANCE

An early examination of the site by appropriate experts is most desirable eg. Geologist, land surveyor, soils engineer, hydrologist etc. Information should be collected on the overall site layout, topography, basic geology; details of access, entry and height restrictions. Local conditions should be examined, such as climate, stream flows, groundwater conditions, site utilisation related to weather and time of year. Where possible photographic records should be kept.

3.  SITE EXPLORATION & SAMPLING

Investigation of detailed geology and sub-surface soil conditions using surface surveys, trial pits, headings, boreholes, sounding, geophysical methods, as appropriate; survey of groundwater conditions over a signification period of time (Maybe even after completion of works); examination of existing and adjacent structures or cavities, buried pipes, services, etc.; provision of samples for further examination and laboratory testing.

4. FIELD TEST / INSITU TEST

Test carried out on the site either prior to or during the construction process; ground test such as shear-vane, standard penetration, cone penetration, plate bearing, pressure meter; structure loading test, such as test on piles, proof loading; displacement observation.

 5.  LABORATORY TESTING

Tests on disturbed and undisturbed samples submitted from the site team; test on soils (as specified) for classification, quality, permeability, shear strength, compressibility,etc.; test on rock cores and samples for strength and durability; test on constructional materials, such as California Bearing Ratio; test on groundwater, chemical and petro graphic analyses.

LABORATORY TESTING

6. REPORT WRITING

Details of geological study, including structures, stratigraphy andmapping; results of borings, etc., including log, references for samples and stratigraphy interpretations as requested; comments and recommendations relating to the design and construction of the proposed works; recommendations relating to further investigating ortesting, and to ongoing or post-completion monitoring.