Field Observation & Testing
- WHAT DOES A FIELD SOILS TECHNICIAN DO?
1. The soils technician works under supervision of the project’s geotechnical engineer, in coordination with the project inspector, and the site superintendent;
2. By reviewing approved plans, specifications and soils report, becomes familiar with the project requirements, specially grading plans and details and the recommendations outlined in the soils report;.
3. Obtains representative samples of soils and earth materials for necessary laboratory testing and uses the laboratory test results for field testing and monitoring;
4. Verifies that the site has been cleared and grubbed and ensures that the subgrade is prepared in accordance with approved construction documents
5. Observes fill placement operations and performs required tests on compacted fill
6. Monitors mass grading operations and assures that excavations, cut-slopes, fill-slopes and subgrades are prepared in compliance with the project documents and applicable codes
- 7. Reports geotechnical related safety concerns to the project team.
9. Communicates with the project geotechnical engineer and informs the engineer of any concern, deviation, questions and needs for clarification. Also reports any encountered unforeseen situation during grading operations
10. Reports the daily observations and test results to the project team on a daily basis. The report will address all the deviations and failed test results, if not corrected.
8. Monitors pile driving and/or pile drilling operations.
