Site Investigation Reports How Accurate Are They?

By Author: Salvatore Andrea
Total Articles: 6261
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Whenever any construction project starts, it is the duty of the analyst to visit and inspect the site of construction. site investigation plays a crucial role during every project work. This investigation is done to assess the amount of risk due to the presence of different contaminants on land. The investigation is carried out in different stages from desk study, visual inspection, intrusive investigation using boreholes and pits to sampling and analysis of materials. It is based on the report submitted that the construction work takes place. This investigation should be done with complete care and attention so that there are no loopholes left for any mishap to occur due to faulty site assessment.

During the desk study phase of site assessment information related to geological and hydrological settings are collected from the site. Historical usage of the site is also taken in due consideration for assessment. Different maps, photographs and local and national archives are referred to help find out the exact details. Several agencies are also contacted and interviewed ...
... to extract all information which is linked to the site. The reviews provided help in identifying the source of contamination, receptors and pathways in between. It is based on this initial research that health and safety requirements are also analyzed before initiating on-site activities. After the assessment a site walkover is done to collect information regarding the current site condition, photographic record, evidence of contamination as well as environmental practices. This initial report is then submitted for further analyzing and conducting of intrusive site investigation.

During the second stage of assessment the samples of soil, water and gases are collected and tested to approve it ideal for construction purposes. During the site investigations it should be ensured that the limitations and uncertainties of the conceptual model developed after initial assessment and walkover surveys are reduced. But there are still many hindrances as the reports might not be exact even after investigation is conducted as the samples collected from a small number of locations do not necessarily mean that the soil condition and contaminant concentration level is same throughout the land. Improper handling of the sample might also give incorrect results. However real time measurements can help in overcoming these problems to some extent and can aid in devising proper planning strategy.