3.

Type of information required for sub-surface exploration

(Foundation Design and Construction, M.J. Tomlinson, Pg. 3)

Sub-soil exploration is done for obtaining the information about sub-surface

conditions at the site of proposed construction. It consists of determining the profile
of the natural soil deposits at the site, taking the soil sample and determining the
engineering properties of soils. It also in-situ testing of soils.

Assuming a fairly detailed study is required, the following information should

be obtained in the course of a sub-surface exploration:

1. The general topography of the site as in affects foundation design and

construction, e.g. surface configuration, adjacent property, the presence of
water courses, ponds, trees, etc.
2. The location of buried utilities such as electric power and telephone cables,
water mains, and sewers.
3. The general geology of the area, with particular reference to the main
geological formations under laying the site and the possibility of subsidence
from mineral extraction or other causes.
4. The previous history and use of the site including information on any defects
or failures of existing or former buildings attributable to foundation
conditions.
5. Any special features such as the possibility of earthquakes or climatic factors
such as flooding, seasonal swelling and shrinkage, permafrost or soil erosion.
6. The availability and quality of local construction material such as concrete
aggregates, building and road stone, and water for constructional purposes.
7. For maritime or river structures information on normal spring and neap tide
ranges, extreme high and low tidal ranges and river levels, seasonal river
levels and discharges, velocity of tidal and river currents, and other
hydrographic and metrological data.
8. A detailed record of the soil and rock strata and ground water conditions
within the zones affected by foundations bearing pressures and
constructional operations, or of any deeper strata affecting the site condition
in any way.
9. Results of laboratory tests on soil and rock samples appropriate to the
particular foundation design or constructional problems.
10.Results of chemical analysis on soil or ground water determined possible
deleterious effects on foundation structures.