Geotechnical site investigation: observations of site access, site supervision and service proving best practices

As geotechnical site investigation becomes inherently more challenging to complete due to site access constraints, elevated project risk profiles and increased public awareness, the importance of sound planning and execution is vital. The intent of this paper is to provide engineers tasked with managing and delivering site investigations with an overview of personal observations of what could be considered industry best practices (Melbourne) in mitigating potential risks associated with service strikes when planning site investigation, especially for high profile projects. Rigorous site access processes, targeted service clearance, including Non-Destructive Digging (NDD), and proficient site supervision are essential for site investigations on large scale infrastructure projects. The creation of larger Joint Ventures, Alliances and project teams has resulted in the development of more stringent safety processes, more thorough permits and heightened safeguards aimed at reducing risks, both perceived and actual, associated with ground breaking activities. With stakeholders and client becoming increasingly more risk averse, there is a greater reliance on engineers to complete site work without incidents or attracting the attention of the public eye.