Kleinfelder was engaged to undertake a preliminary geotechnical investigation to provide a detailed report outlining ground conditions encountered, geotechnical design parameters, and recommendations on footing designs for the site acquisition and potential residential and commercial developmental costing purposes.

Unexpected Challenges Encountered

Several challenges — ranging from severe weather conditions and challenging ground conditions during drilling, to the presence of a sandy, gravelly layer between 10 and 15 meters below ground level and heavy earthwork equipment across the site — compounded and impacted safe fieldwork.

Maintaining Focus

Maintaining a focus on clear and collaborative communication, the Kleinfelder team addressed site challenges by setting up staged preliminary reporting to meet the client’s desired reporting timeframe, the timely use of data for costing estimations, and to maintain information flow regarding field investigation difficulties.

To ensure collaborative site working and reduce potential risks, the team worked closely and developed regular communication with site drillers and earthworks civil contractors.

Project Results

Kleinfelder’s geotechnical engineers’ preliminary investigation determined the site required the use of deep foundation and piling. This determination aided the client to factor in appropriate costing in their construction plans.
Through prompt and clear communication with all stakeholders, Kleinfelder ensured the investigation met the client’s desired timeframe and the identified potential impact on the project’s final construction cost.

Project Details

Location:
South Australia

Owner:
Confidential Client