Browsing by Author "Myburgh, Keshia Shermane"

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    The minimum site investigation requirements needed to define site conditions considering the results of ground investigations and its true reflection of actual site conditions found during construction
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2018-03) Myburgh, Keshia Shermane; Day, Peter William; Fouche, Nanine; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Engineering. Dept. of Civil Engineering.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The success of civil engineering projects, whether it involves the construction of houses, bridges, roads or tunnels, depend largely on the adequate identification of subsurface conditions. Geotechnical engineering, even in its most primitive form, has been around for hundreds of years, and unfortunately, so have geotechnical related problems. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is probably one of the oldest and most well-known examples of the problems related to uncertainty within the ground, and so, the importance of ground investigations. The geotechnical investigation aims to reduce the occurrence and impact of such problems as far as possible. Although risk inherent in the ground is inevitable, it can ideally be identified and mitigated by way of incorporating geotechnical investigations in contractual agreements. This way, thorough understanding of requirements and preparation of an adequate investigation may assist in minimising the risk as well as cost and schedule overruns on construction projects. In South Africa, there are various national standards, codes of practice and legislation available that are intended to guide geotechnical practitioners and associated professionals in the planning and execution of adequate geotechnical site investigations. Yet, the occurrence of structural foundation failures and construction cost overruns due to inadequate investigations still occur frequently. This research comprehensively evaluates the investigation requirements specified in regulatory frameworks, as well as the procedures that are currently being followed by geo-practitioners in the industry. The study found that the occurrence of geotechnical related failures is mainly ascribed to inadequate implementation of the regulatory framework. Furthermore, unlike related professions, there are currently no standardised specifications for geotechnical investigations. By identifying pitfalls associated with current site investigation trends in South Africa, the study provides a basis from which the required minimum specifications can be developed and successfully incorporated as contractual obligations by means of a standardised specification.