As we talk about construction risks, we may refer to budgeting issues, scheduling problems, labor shortages, or high costs of materials. In fact, while these issues can be serious enough, there are some other types of construction risks that need to be identified first of all. Before you start pouring foundations or moving any other equipment onto your building site, check the state of the land around your house to ensure everything goes according to plan.
*Why Are Subsurface Conditions Important?
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It should be mentioned that the ground plays an important role when we speak about constructing buildings. However, every piece of land differs from another one because soil quality, presence of groundwater, presence of debris, and other environmental factors may vary from place to place.
Without taking care of them at the very beginning, you might face serious problems later.
In this regard, identifying risks associated with subsurface conditions can help make correct decisions from the very beginning.
Some Typical Subsurface Hazards
*Soil Instability
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The presence of unstable soil makes it impossible to build solid foundations. Failure to detect such conditions will cause buildings to sink or crack.
*High Water Tables
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Water tables affect excavation processes and foundation works, increasing construction costs.
*Different Soil Strata
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A particular location might consist of various strata of soils. Such variations have an effect on how one builds their structures.
*Soil Contamination
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Historical industries might have contaminated the soil in a particular location; hence remedial actions must be taken before construction begins.
*Subsurface Obstacles
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Underground utilities, underground structures, and debris from previous construction projects can cause unforeseen obstacles while excavating and constructing foundations.
*Importance of Geotechnical Investigation
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Among the best ways of minimizing risks associated with construction is conducting geotechnical investigations.
In this case, engineers take soil samples, conduct various field tests, and determine the behavior of the ground when loads act on it.
Some advantages of conducting geotechnical investigations include:
- Better foundation design
- Lower construction risks
- Good budgeting
- Potential hazard recognition
- Improved structural performance
Best Practices Within the Industry for Managing Risks Associated With Construction Projects
Projects that succeed tend to adhere to several main points:
*Conduct Thorough Early Assessments
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These types of studies will yield useful information that can inform future decisions.
*Make No Assumptions
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The surface does not always tell the whole story. It is best to rely on facts when making decisions.
*Include Geotechnical Information Within Design Plans
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Environmental data should be part of any project from its inception.
*Conditions During Construction Need to Be Monitored
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There are unforeseen circumstances that may occur during excavation and construction process, but ongoing monitoring will help make sure risks will still be kept at bay.
*Gaining Confidence Right from the Start
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Some risks in the construction process can be prevented, especially those risks that can be avoided through proper planning and investigation. Knowing soil conditions, groundwater, and other environmental considerations before starting any kind of construction work can minimize risks.
Companies engaged in geotechnical investigations and environmental testing include Enviro Test Construct.
*Conclusion
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Construction risk management does not commence upon arrival of the construction teams on the job site; it commences much earlier, namely, from an understanding of the soil under the project.
By undertaking geotechnical surveys and conducting environmental assessment as well as planning based on factual findings, construction risks can be minimized, while efficiency and success will be optimized.
In construction, risk management begins by going underground prior to going above ground.
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