Site Investigation
Site investigation, simply put is the collection of data and information from a site in order to outline potential hazards or complications that may arise when the site becomes in use or after completion. This can be gathered through techniques such as surveying with high tech equipment, all the way down to simple observation.
Site investigation is a topic covered partly in the government’s official building regulations. “Part C: Site Preparation and resistance to contaminants and moisture” is one of the approved documents which lays out the minimum standards that need to be met and guides people to achieving compliance.
The approved document lays out four stages which should be used to ensure proper site investigation is carried out. They are:
Planning stage, where clear objectives for the investigation are set.
Desk study, involving pre-site-visit research to discover the sites history.
Site reconnaissance, where a plan of action for the in-depth survey is designed
Site investigation, including gathering data and testing the site
The desk study of the site is carried out entirely through research about the background and history of the site, which can contribute to the conclusion of the entire process and the focus and design of the physical site investigation. Local councils often require evidence of a desk study to be submitted as part of the planning permission process. Desk studies often include research on:
Historical context of the site
Geological and environmental information
Local architectural context
Archaeological information
The likeliness of finding contaminants
The likeliness of finding foundations or remains of previous buildings
Former uses of the site
It also mentions several key investigations which should be conducted, though it is worth noting that the approved document only deals with site preparation relating to contaminants and moisture. The main ones mentioned are:
Elements on site which could destabilise the building, namely topsoil
Material such as pre-existing foundations that could cause damage to the building or equipment
Any health and safety risks that may be caused by contaminants in or on the ground
The adequacy of sub-soil drainage if it poses a risk to the building
Detecting any contaminant or substance which could have detrimental effects on the building, by being corrosive, explosive, radioactive, flammable etc.
Unsuitable materials in place such as hardcore containing sulphate
Susceptibility to flooding or high groundwater
Analysing the underlying geology and soil properties
Detecting methane and other gases present
The conclusion of the site investigation will influence the final design and construction process of the building, as well as preventing numerous complications and mistakes throughout the build. Without a thorough site investigation, the design and construction of a building is more than likely to take longer and cost more money than it should. Mistakes and alterations set back the schedule of the buildings construction and cost labour and time to put right. The site investigation can also improve the design as the gathered contextual information can be used to enhance how the building sits in context with its surroundings and history.
Bibliography:
Basic site investigation information - http://civiltoday.com/geotechnical-engineering/19-site-investigation - (Accessed last on 7th February)
Basic site investigation information - https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Site_investigation - (Accessed last on 7th February)
Desk study information - https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Desk_study - (Accessed last on 7th February)
Ground investigation information - https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Ground_investigation - (Accessed last on 7th February)
Approved document C - https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/431943/BR_PDF_AD_C_2013.pdf - (Accessed last on 7th February)
Surveyors photo - http://epc.pvpowerway.com.img.800cdn.com/images/tabs_lightbox/construction_11.jpg - (Accessed last on 7th February)
