Statistics shows that 80% of problems encountered on construction projects are due to unforeseen ground conditions that could have been avoided if a suitable site investigation was carried out.

A Summary of Site Investigation

Site Investigation is the process of collecting information, assessment of the data and reporting potential hazards beneath a site which are unknown.

Site Investigation is grouped into the following stages:

1. Soil Investigation
2. Geologic survey maps.
3. Preliminary investigation
4. Detailed Site Investigation
5. Supplementary investigation and construction control.

Site Investigation Purpose and Objectives

The objective of a site investigation is to gather the information needed to carry out the risk assessment, in order to be in a position to assess the presence and significance of contamination of land.

The number one objective of a site investigation is to determine as accurately as may required

1. The nature and sequence of strata
2. The ground water conditions at the site
3. The physical properties of soil and rock underlying the site
4. The mechanical properties such as strength of different soil or rock strata

Site investigations have to be structured to acquire all possible information toward a thorough understanding of the subsurface condition and probable foundation behaviour.

Background Analysis before a Subsurface Investigation takes place

All site investigations require a field investigation, Geotechnical Contractors should obtain information on the types of structures which are intended to be built and what there uses will be. This includes key characteristics of the structure, when it is scheduled to be built. What methods of construction are planned and how long construction is estimated to take.

Site Investigators will access the soil condition of the site from a geological, geotechnical and aerial perspective. This also takes into account other facts such as local experience and structures and building close to the site.