Site Investigation Stages

The nature and extent of site preparation will depend on the findings of the site investigation. The site investigation (relevant to Sections 2, 3 and 4 of this Technical Booklet) should consist of a number of well defined stages – (a) Planning the investigation. Clear objectives should be set for the investigation, including the scope and requirements, which enable the investigation to be planned and carried out efficiently and provide the required information; (b) Desk study. A review of the historical, geological and environmental information about the site is essential; (c) Site reconnaissance or walk over survey. This stage of the investigation facilitates the identification of actual and potential physical hazards and the design of the main investigation; and (d) Main investigation and reporting. This will usually include intrusive and non-intrusive sampling and testing to provide soil parameters for design and construction. The main investigation should be preceded by (b) and (c) above.