Phase 2 Intrusive Ground Investigation

In order to develop the design of any infrastructure project beyond the conceptual stage, the specific ground conditions beneath the intended site must first be assessed.

Phase 2 intrusive surveys involve direct ground assessment, sampling and testing to physically examine the ground in detail and cover two main focus areas;
 

• Geotechnical Phase 2 surveys - ensure and demonstrate that the assumptions / predictions made within the conceptual design are both accurate and reliable.

  • The assessment allows detailed foundation design to be undertaken, evidenced back to the site-specific conditions in order to satisfy the requirements of Building Control and the NHBC.

  • Provides the necessary chain-of-evidence to satisfy liability requirements of both procuring appropriate insurance cover and engaging foundation contractors.

  • Ensures that the adopted foundation design is safe but not unnecessary conservative and costly.

  • Provides high-quality data for integration into advanced numerical modelling.

• Geo-environmental Phase 2 surveys – directly builds upon the Phase 1 desk study phase to evidence and test the conceptual ground model for the site and forms an integral part of the planning and Local Authority compliance framework.

  • Allows for direct measurement of potential contaminants within soil and groundwater in order to undertake a full Human Health and Controlled Waters risk assessment.

  • Enables the ground-gas regime for the site to be directly measured in order to satisfy the Local Authority requirements for protective measures.

  • Ensures that the client is fully aware of the risks, liabilities and limitations of ownership or development of the land at an early stage.

  • Allows for a structured assessment of likely options in relation to disposal or re-use of waste soils
     

At EGC, we have both proven experience and long-standing relationships with both Local Regulators, planners and sub-contractors to ensure that we have the right approach to your specific needs. Every site is assessed on its individual merits and we often adopt a staged approach to our Phase 2 investigations to ensure these are both targeted and adaptive.

We routinely use our in-house geophysical capability to assess larger or more-complex sites initially as this allows for follow-on drilling to be focused in an intelligent and holistic way, saving both time and the cost of un-necessary ‘blind’ investigation.

We have access to techniques including;

• Deep trial pitting using mechanical plant

• Hand-dug exposure of foundations for detailed examination

• Full-size and restricted access cable percussive drilling of boreholes

• Window sampling / Continuous Tube Sampling

• Hand augering

• Plate Bearing Testing and CBR assessment

• Basic classification and advanced UKAS accredited geotechnical laboratory testing

• Analytical chemistry testing of soils for contamination assessment

Please contact us for more information or for an informal discussion with one of our Chartered professionals.