SABP Q 015 Investigation Scope

Best Practice
SABP-Q-015 27 May 2018

Scope of Work Guide for Geotechnical Investigations
Document Responsibility: Geotechnical Standards Committee
Contents
1 Introduction ................................................................ 2
2 References ................................................................. 3
3 General Requirements of Geotechnical
Scope of Work ............................................................ 5
4 Geotechnical Investigations
at Various Project Phases .......................................... 7
5 Site Selection Geotechnical
Reconnaissance Investigations ................................. 9
6 Preliminary Geotechnical Investigations................... 11
7 Detailed Geotechnical Investigations ....................... 15
8 In-Situ Field Tests and Laboratory Tests
within All Investigation Phases ................................. 15
9 Monitoring or Verification Investigations ................... 19
Appendix 1 - Guideline for Borehole Density
and Depth…………………………………….. 20
Previous Issue: New Next Planned Update: TBD

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Primary contact: Spyropoulos, Emmanouil (spyropex) on 966-13-8809698
©Saudi Aramco 2018. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Geotechnical Standards Committee SABP-Q-015
Issue Date: 27 May 2018
Next Planned Update: TBD Scope of Work Guide for Geotechnical Investigations
1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose
This Best Practice establishes guidelines and recommendations for the

preparation of Scopes of Work for geotechnical investigations related to any
Saudi Aramco onshore/near shore facility, and for geotechnical investigations on
Saudi Aramco-managed non-industrial and government projects.
1.2 Scope
This Best Practice provides recommendations for preparing geotechnical

investigation Scopes of Work appropriate for the various project phases (FEL1
Business Case, FEL2 DBSP, and FEL3 Project Proposal). The Best Practice
covers not only general requirements to be used in preparing the geotechnical
investigation Scope of Work but also the criteria for selecting and implementing
the required spacing/depth of the exploratory holes to be carried out in relation
to the proposed structures.
The requirements in this Best Practice are applicable for Saudi Aramco
onshore/near shore process industry facilities and for Saudi Aramco-managed
non-industrial and government projects, including geotechnical investigations
conducted directly for design and/or construction Contractors.
1.3 Disclaimer
The material in this Best Practice document provides the most correct and
accurate guidelines available to Saudi Aramco which complies with
international industry practices related to the Scope of Work for the procurement
and execution of geotechnical investigations. This material is being provided
for the general guidance and benefit of Saudi Aramco engineers and engineers
working on Saudi Aramco projects. Use of the Best Practices in preparing
geotechnical investigation Scopes of Work for Saudi Aramco, however, does not
relieve the Contractor from his responsibility to verify the accuracy of any
information presented or from his contractual liability to provide safe and sound
designs that conform to Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirements.
The use of the information or material contained herein is no guarantee that the
resulting product will satisfy the applicable requirements of any project. Saudi
Aramco assumes no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any reliance on the
information presented herein or for designs prepared by Designers in accordance
with the Best Practices. Use of the Best Practices by Designers is intended
solely for, and shall be strictly limited to, Saudi Aramco projects.
Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

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1.4 Conflicts with Mandatory Standards
In the event of a conflict between this Best Practice and other Mandatory Saudi
Aramco Engineering Requirements, the Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirement shall govern.
2 References
This Best Practice is based on the latest edition of the references below, unless
otherwise noted. Short titles will be used herein when appropriate.
2.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards (SAES)

SAES-A-100 Survey Coordinates, Datum's and Data Formats
SAES-A-111 Borrow Pit Requirements
SAES-A-112 Meteorological and Seismic Design Data
SAES-A-113 Geotechnical Engineering Requirements
SAES-A-114 Excavation and Backfill
SAES-L-470 Trenchless Pipelines Construction Requirements
SAES-Q-001 Criteria for Design and Construction of Concrete
Structures
SAES-Q-005 Concrete Foundations
SAES-Q-006 Asphalt and Sulfur Extended Asphalt Concrete
Paving
SAES-Q-007 Foundations and Supporting Structures for Heavy
Machinery
SAES-Q-009 Concrete Retaining Walls
SAES-Q-014 Offshore Geotechnical Investigation Requirements
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures (SAEP)

SAEP-383 Approving Third Party Testing Laboratories,
Geotechnical Engineering Offices and Batch
Plants
SAEP-61 Geotechnical Engineering Procedures - Onshore
Saudi Aramco Sanitary Code

SASC-S-02 Sanitary Wastewater and Sewerage Systems
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Saudi Aramco Construction Safety Manual
2.2 Industry Codes and Standards
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

AASHTO 2008 Manual on Subsurface Investigations
American Society for Testing and Materials

ASTM D420 Standard Guide to Site Characterization for
Engineering, Design, and Construction Purposes
ASTM D1556 Standard Test Method for Density and Unit Weight
of Soil in Place by the Sand Cone Method
ASTM D1586 Standard Test Method for Standard Penetration Test
(SPT) and Split-Barrel Sampling of Soils
ASTM D1587 Standard Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling
of Soils for Geotechnical Purposes
ASTM D1883 Test Method for CBR (California Bearing Ration) of
Laboratory Compacted Soils
ASTM D2113 Standard Practice for Rock Core Drilling and
Sampling of Rock for Site Investigation
ASTM D2938 Standard Test method for Unconfined Compressive
Strength of Intact Rock Core Specimens
ASTM D4428 Standard Test Method for Cross-Hole Seismic
Testing
ASTM D4543 Standard Practices for Preparing Rock Core
Specimens and Determining Dimensional and
Shape Tolerances
ASTM D5079 Standard Practices for Preserving and Transporting
Rock Core Samples
ASTM D5434 Guide for Field Logging of Subsurface Explorations
of Soil and Rock
ASTM D5731 Standard Test Method for Determination of the
Point Load Strength Index of Rock
ASTM D5777 Standard Guide for Using the Seismic Refraction
Method for Subsurface Investigation
ASTM D5778 Standard Test Method for Electronic Friction Cone
and Piezocone Penetration Testing of Soils

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ASTM D5878 Standard Guide for Using Rock-Mass Classification

Systems for Engineering Purposes
ASTM D7012 Standard Test Methods for Compressive Strength
and Elastic Moduli of Intact Rock Core Specimens
under Varying States of Stress and Temperatures
British Standards
BS5930:2010 Code of Practice for Site Investigations
B1377-9:1990 Test of Soils for Civil Engineering Purpose
Eurocode 7
BS EN 1997-2:2007 Eurocode 7, Geotechnical Design – Part 2: Ground
Investigation and Testing
US Army Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army

EM 1110-1-1804 Geotechnical Investigations, Engineering and
Design
American Society of Civil Engineers

ASCE 7-05 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other
Structures
Saudi Building Code

SBC 303 Structural – Soils and Foundations
3 General Requirements of Geotechnical Scope of Work
Geotechnical investigations are mandatory except when all of the conditions indicated
in SAES-A-113, Paragraph 5.2 have been satisfied.
Geotechnical investigations are essential for all new onshore/near shore structures
(including, but not limited to, buildings, tanks, roads, tunnels, pipelines, process
facilities, pump stations, airports, marinas etc.) and significant earthworks. Structures
undergoing significant upgrades or load changes may also require a geotechnical
investigation.
Commentary Note:
Geotechnical investigations explore the subsurface conditions for the

determination of the physical and chemical characteristics of the underlying
strata and to evaluate the performance of soils/rocks in their natural state as
well as under various loads imposed by the proposed constructions.

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3.1 Geotechnical Scope of Work Requirements
The information described below shall form the basis for any geotechnical
Scope of Work document to be prepared. However, modifications may be
included for each specific project depending not only on the nature of structures
to be constructed, but also on the site and geologic conditions and the stage of
the project (Site Selection, DBSP, or Project Proposal).
The Geotechnical Scope of Work needs to be produced using “CSD Scope of

Work template”. Electronic version of this template can be obtained from On-
shore Engineering Group, CSD.
The Scope of Work must include:

1. The purpose and objectives of the geotechnical investigation
including:
- The project phase (FEL1/business case, etc.)
- The geotechnical information, recommendations and

conclusions required for the current project phase
- Any specific issues that need to be addressed
2. Site description, including topographic maps, aerial photos, existing

and previous construction on the site, and any previous geotechnical
investigations at the site.
3. A full description of the project, including:
- Descriptions of the types of structures and facilities to be

constructed
- Approximate foundation loads and dimensions
- Final grade and/or anticipated cut or fill to be undertaken
- Basements and other excavation depths
- Slopes, drainage, retention basin design, etc.
- Other project details which may impact the geotechnical

analysis.
4. Field tests to be performed indicating type, depth and numbers (in

accordance to density/depth guidelines provided in Appendix 1).

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5. Laboratory tests to be carried out designating types and also

explaining their particular objective in relation to the site without
specific number to be detailed.
6. A description of any special tests or requirements to be carried out.
7. A detailed site plan including the locations of the existing and

proposed facilities as well as the locations of the field tests to be
undertaken specified on UTM coordinates, International 1924
Ellipsoid, Ain (Ayn) Al Abd 1970 datum, and UTM zone
Commentary Note
Satellite-based GPS units are based on UTM WG84 datum and must
be translated to (and from) International 1924 Ellipsoid, Ain (Ayn) Al
Abd 1970 datum. See SAES-A-100 Paragraph 8.2 and 8.3.
8. Proponent information.
9. Information on site access, ID and work permit requirements.
10. The completed checklist of “Required Geotechnical Services” as

specified in SAES-A-113 Appendix A.
Commentary Notes:
Some of the above information may not be available at the very early
stage of the project. However, providing detailed information to the
geotechnical contractor will result in more specific geotechnical
analysis and recommendations, possibly saving the project both
construction time and money. Previous geotechnical investigations
(Item #2 above) may be obtained from On-shore Engineering Group,
CSD.
4 Geotechnical Investigations at Various Project Phases
Planning of the geotechnical investigations is to be made in such a way that all

applicable geotechnical information and data will be available/accessible as needed for
the various stages of the project. Geotechnical investigations may take 2 to 4 months to
complete, depending on the scope of the investigation.
The goals of all staged geotechnical investigations are, generally, summarized as;
1. Identification of soil/rock formations and groundwater conditions encountered on

site.

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2. Determine soil and rock parameters required for design. These parameters are to
be determined based on established procedures given in literature as well as on
relevant engineering judgement.
3. Identification of geotechnical/geologic hazards/risks and mitigation strategy.
Commentary Note
In cases where cavities within rock formations are encountered or are

expected, e.g., karst regions, additional exploration by geophysical means may
be required. Grass roots plants on predominately limestone geology may
require a risk assessment study for potential underground cavities. These
cavity risk assessments are beyond the scope of this Best Practice.
4.1 Sequence of Geotechnical Investigations
A typical project lifecycle includes the site selection, planning, design and
construction phases, and geotechnical investigations may be required for any
and all of these stages. Geotechnical investigations are thus broadly classified
as follows and described in more detail in the following sections of this Best
Practice:
- Planning-level geotechnical reconnaissance investigations related to site

selection at planning-level and preliminary facility layout, typically
consisting of a site-specific desk study, geologic hazard assessment, and
supplemented by limited field investigation tests (boreholes and SPTs)
and/or remote sensing data assessment. Often, various proposed sites are
included in the site selection stage.
- Preliminary geotechnical investigations undertaken for the approximate

positioning and preliminary designs of the proposed constructions.
- Detailed geotechnical investigations undertaken for the detailed design of

the structures (structure-specific).
- Monitoring or verification investigations during or after the project

execution for ensuring that actual performance or design parameters are
corresponding to the design tolerances and performance estimates; or to
verify soil /rock conditions, groundwater or other geologic aspects.
For projects following the front-end loading methodology, geotechnical

investigations shall be completed as per this table:

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Deadline for
Project
Type of Investigation Project Phase Geotechnical Report
Type
Completion*
Reconnaissance investigation A, B FEL 1 - Business Case G1 of FEL1
Preliminary Investigation Report A, B, C FEL 2 - Study G2 of FEL2
Detailed Investigation Report A, B, C, C1 FEL3 - Project Proposal (PPA) 30% PPA of FEL3
* It shall be noted that the Report completion deadline is for final report completion and acceptance after review
cycles and not for initial report submission.
Source – Saudi Aramco Front End Loading (FEL) Manual (1 June 2014)
Small projects may only require a single detailed structure-specific geotechnical

investigation, while project types A, B and C would require multiple
geotechnical investigations.
The results of previous geotechnical investigations shall be made available and

incorporated into the planning for subsequent investigations. All corresponding
information shall be included in the subsequent staged geotechnical
investigation analysis and report.
5 Site Selection Geotechnical Reconnaissance Investigations
During site selection stage, planning-level geotechnical reconnaissance investigations

shall be performed, primarily consisting of a site specific desk study, site
reconnaissance and/or remote sensing data assessment at each of the different proposed
locations under consideration. At locations where grass-root projects are to be
constructed, a supplement with limited field investigation is usually included.
The overall objectives of planning-level geotechnical reconnaissance investigations are

generally limited to:
- A description of the site, including location, elevations, and surrounding
facilities,
- The geologic and hydrologic setting, including a basic geologic model,
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- Geologic and geotechnical hazard identification and mitigation, including

recommending any additional studies that should be performed,
identification of sabkha (salt flats) areas.
- Seismic design considerations.
- Preliminary assessment of expected foundation types, and similar design
assessments for the specific project planning purposes, and
- The overall feasibility of using the site for the planned facility.
5.1 Desk Study and Site Reconnaissance
Site-specific assessments should be initially initiated by conducting a desk

study, mostly office based and comparatively non expensive, using available
information from a variety of sources. A good desk study at this stage in the
project will help to scope the subsequent geotechnical investigations to meet the
design criteria better and achieve potential cost reductions. The information to
be obtained during the site specific desk study can be acquired from the
following sources:
- Topographical maps;
- Geological maps and sections, including descriptions;
- Geological history of the area;
- Hydrological data;
- Historical information available;
- Aerial photos within different dates;
- Previous geotechnical investigations at the site and on adjacent/surrounding
locations.
A site reconnaissance walkover survey is essential during the early site selection
phase for identifying hazards, risks and situations where, for example, poor
soil/rock conditions, water bodies on surface, elevations changes, and/or
filling/cutting operations may be encountered. This information allows for
specific field investigations to be carried out in a cost effective way.
In cases of several available sites for selection, a walkover survey can be a

crucial factor for abandoning sites that are obviously unsuitable due to poor
ground conditions, thus avoiding costs related to the treatment/improvement of
the site.

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5.2 Geotechnical Investigations within Site Selection Phase
Limited geotechnical investigations should be undertaken at places where grass

roots projects are to be initiated, in addition to the desk study survey.
Geotechnical investigations should be performed for identifying the subsurface
conditions and to make a preliminary assessment for the site suitability for the
planned structures.
These initial reconnaissance-level geotechnical investigations shall generally

consist of the following:
- Geophysical tests such as shallow seismic refraction tests for ascertaining

thickness of various soil/rock deposits, their approximate strength, and the
rippability of shallow rock formations through the methodology related to
seismic velocities as per ASTM D5777.
- Limited number of exploratory holes, mostly boreholes and cone penetration
tests (CPTs), drilled to a depths ranging from 10m to 30m, or 3m into the
rock, whichever is less. In all boreholes, standard penetration tests to be
performed in accordance with ASTM D1586. If the soil is cohesive, then
undisturbed thin wall samples shall be obtained in accordance with ASTM
D1587. CPT soundings shall comply with ASTM D5778.
- Limited soil/rock laboratory testing (e.g. classification, strength,
consolidation) on selected samples retrieved from the boreholes and any trial
pits done as necessary to determine relevant engineering properties in
relation to the proposed structures.
The number of above mentioned field tests is to be decided based upon the
results of the desk study, the size of the site to be considered, and structures to
be constructed.
6 Preliminary Geotechnical Investigations
Preliminary geotechnical investigations are geotechnical investigation based on planned

facility layout and preliminary structural loads and sizes usually performed during the
DBSP stage of a project.
They differ from the detailed structure-specific investigation mainly by the density of
the field exploration and thus costs are relatively small compared to the overall project
cost.

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6.1 Objectives of Preliminary Geotechnical Investigations
Preliminary geotechnical investigations function as the main tool for

determining the geotechnical related design issues in the early stages of the
project, including foundation design, cut and fill slopes, whether ground
improvement is required, retaining structures, groundwater, and pavement
design. Preliminary investigations may also form the basis for approximate
positioning structures e.g. in terms of location/loads/dimensions, and identify
additional studies that need to be performed to identify and mitigate geologic
and geotechnical hazards not previously identified during the planning-stage
reconnaissance study.
The findings of both the desk study surveys and the site reconnaissances/visits
should be taken into account when choosing the investigation methods to be
used as well as detecting the various field test points to be carried out within the
preliminary staged phase. Widely spaced exploratory holes including boreholes,
cone penetration tests, trial pits etc. as well as corresponding laboratory testing
are generally included within the preliminary geotechnical investigations.
The layout of the exploration points may be in a grid pattern with selected points
of exploration targeted at places representing possible variations in ground
conditions related to soil, rock and groundwater if the layout of the facility is not
known.
The overall objectives of the preliminary geotechnical investigations are defined

as follows:
- Development of a geological model of the site;

- Definition of soil/rock types encountered on site and their corresponding
stratification;
- Estimation of characteristics and properties e.g. composition, strength,
deformation of various soil deposits/rock formations found to be present;
- Delineation of the groundwater regime at the site.
Commentary Note
Watershed analysis and flooding assessment is to be done separate from

the geotechnical investigation.
- Evaluation and classification of rock excavation.
- Identification of the concrete exposure type.

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- Preliminary assessment of likely foundation types to be used for the

structures planned to be constructed, including bearing pressure, settlement,
axial and lateral pile capacity, etc.;
- Determination of dynamic soil properties and other items as required for the
detailed design of the project;
- Identification of any geological/geotechnical hazards and concerns that may
be present on site; e.g. soil improvement, liquefaction potential, rock
excavation, expansive or collapsible soils, sand movement migration etc.;
- Determination of site seismicity as specified at SAES-A-112 and the
preliminary ASCE-7 Site Class;
Commentary Note
Generally 30m deep boreholes are required to determine the ASCE-7 Site
Class. However, 30m deep boreholes are not required when the mapped
maximum considered earthquake spectral response acceleration at a
short period, Ss, is less than or equal to 0.15 and the mapped maximum
considered earthquake spectral response acceleration at a period of 1
sec, S1, is less than or equal to 0.04.
- Recommendations of any additional studies to be performed for both
enumerating and mitigating the risks associated to the
geological/geotechnical hazards identified above (if any), and in turn,
evaluations of any possibility of high level modifications (e.g. location) to be
performed;
6.2 Tests Density/Depth at Preliminary Geotechnical Investigations
Exploration points, within the preliminary geotechnical investigations, should be

positioned on such a way that a broad-spectrum geological assessment of the
entire site under consideration to be acquired including, but not limited to details
related to engineering properties of the soils/rocks and groundwater conditions.
Often the exact location of structures to be constructed is not available until
much of the geotechnical investigations data has been obtained; in such cases,
modifications will need to be performed within the subsequent detailed
geotechnical investigation including all necessary information in relations to
locations, sizes, and loads of the corresponding structures.
The preliminary investigation density will depend on the specific subsurface

conditions and the approximate type and location of proposed structures. The
type of field exploration tests may be a combination of those listed in Table 1.

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Table 1: Typical Field Exploration Tests
Field Tests Generally needed for

Boreholes & SPT as per ASTM
To identify general soil/rock profiles
D1586
Cone Penetrometer (PCPT) tests as To obtain continuous strength profile;
per ASTM D5778 to identify loose sands
For suitability as fill assessment, for
Test pits
pavement and roads design
Cross-hole seismic testing For vibratory foundation design
For rock
Shallow refraction seismic soundings
identification/excavation/rippability
Soil electrical resistivity Grounding
Soil thermal resistivity Underground cable, pipelines
Percolation testing For sump/drain/sanitary pit design
For settlement sensitive buildings,
Plate loading test
tanks, ground improvement
In-situ permeability (pump or slug
Dewatering, pond design
tests)
In ground improvement, special
Pressuremeter test
foundations
To identify localized underground
Electrical resistivity 2D tomography
water and karst
To evaluate underground cavities,
Ground penetrating radar
utility lines, services etc.
Exploration depth should overcome all soil deposits that may be inappropriate
for foundation purposes e.g. compressible cohesive soils/loose granular soils
shall be penetrated and depth of exploration shall extend to depths where stress
increases have ceased; in case of rock formations, a penetration of at least 3m
into the rock is required; in addition, in case of loose/soft soils one of the
exploratory holes to be extended to 30m depth for evaluating potential of
liquefaction in an unexpected event of earthquake.
Appendix 1 provises guidelines on borehole test density and depths for site
investigation. It is to be noted that each site investigation is unique as it relates
to specific project needs, thus density/depth of preliminary investigation points
provided in Appendix 1 may differ due to project specific details and thus are
not standards or rules.

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7 Detailed Geotechnical Investigations
Site-specific geotechnical information is required for all onshore structures and

significant earthworks, including for existing foundations which undergo a change in
loading conditions, prior to the commencement of detailed design.
Structure-specific exploratory holes including boreholes, cone penetration tests, trial

pits etc. as well as corresponding laboratory testing are to be included within the
detailed geotechnical investigations.
The findings of both the planning level and preliminary geotechnical investigations
should be considered when identifying the investigation methods and the various field
test points to be carried out within the detailed design phase. Modifications on
locations, sizes, and loads of the corresponding structures to be constructed representing
the actual /final design phase compared to the preliminary phase investigations shall
clearly identified.
7.1 Tests Density/Depth at Detailed Geotechnical Investigations
The detailed investigation exploratory points density/depths depends on the

structure/subsurface specific conditions and the exact type and location of
proposed structures. Exploration depth, as with preliminary investigations,
should overcome all soil deposits that may be inappropriate for foundation
purposes e.g. compressible cohesive soils/loose granular soils shall be
penetrated. The depth of exploration shall be extended to depths where stress
increases have been ceased; in case of rock formations, a penetration of at least
3m into the rock is required. For seismic design, a limited number of exploratory
boreholes shall to be extended to 30m depth.
Appendix 1 provises guidelines on borehole test density and depths for site
investigation. It is to be noted that each detailed geotechnical investigation is
site and structure-specific as it relates to specific project needs, thus
density/depth of investigation points provided in Appendix 1 may differ due to
project specific details and thus are not standards or rules.
8 In-Situ Field Tests and Laboratory Tests within all Investigation Phases
8.1 In-Situ Field Tests
Besides the recommendations proposed corresponding to the density/depth of

the preliminary/detailed investigation boring points, there are certain in-situ tests
to be performed as a supplement within those phases depending on the nature of
the specific project. The in-situ field tests are summarized as follows:

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Table 2: In-Situ Field Tests
Description/Number/Depth of required In-Situ

Type of In-Situ Test
Tests
In all Boreholes, automatic SPT hammers shall be
used, and standard penetration tests are to be
performed as per ASTM D1586 in soil at depths of
0.15, 0.75, 1.5, 2.25, 3.0, 3.75, 4.5 m, and at 1.5m
intervals thereafter, and at changes in soil strata;
type of hammers to be used for undertaking field
Standard Penetration Test SPT test shall be indicated and calibration
(SPT) within Boreholes certificates shall be provided; moreover, field N SPT
values shall be corrected by taking into account the
following parameters, and, then be used on
calculations in relation to foundation
recommendations: hammer efficiency, correction for
borehole diameter, sampler correction, correction for
rod length.
CPT soundings shall be performed at all soil
deposits encountered on site in accordance to ASTM
D5778 (not required for rocky area); density of CPT
Cone Penetration Testing tests should be approximately 50% of the number of
(CPT) performed boreholes and results shall be used for
correlation purposes; CPTs should terminate when
refusal has reached (qc>50MPa, fs>1MPa,
inclination>15 degrees).
Trial Pits should be undertaken to, at least, 1m depth
and logged; trial pits are performed for both identify
different soil types within shallow depth and locate
the presence of any existing utilities; in situ density
testing should be performed within the Trial Pits on
Trial Pits the undisturbed soils at depths of 0, 0.3, 0.6, and
every 0.3m thereafter as per ASTM 1556 as well as
bulk samples shall be taken for laboratory CBR tests
by using the “three-point” method in accordance to
ASTM D1883; in places where pavement surfaces
are required e.g. roads/highways, parking areas etc.

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trial pits should, primarily, be dominated and their

density should substantially increase.
Shallow seismic refraction tests for ascertaining
thickness of various soil/rock deposits, their
approximate strength, and most important the rip
ability of shallow rock formations through the
methodology related to seismic velocities as per
ASTM D5777 should be undertaken (applicable for
Seismic Refraction Test
rocky areas); seismic refraction tests shall be carried
out on such a way so that project site area should be
substantially covered (for taking care possible
sloping of shallow rock surface), and in addition,
geophone arrangement to be such so that depth to be
reached to be at least 10 m.
Electrical resistivity tests to be carried out for
identifying the soil corrosivity along pipe routes
Electrical Resistivity Test
(grounding); 1 test for every type of soil
classification to be performed at a depth of 1.5m.
Thermal resistivity tests to be carried when design of
power cable installation schemes to be performed
Thermal Resistivity Test (applicable for oil/gas pipeline construction); 1 test
for every type of soil classification to be performed
at a depth of 1.5m.
Cross-Hole Seismic Tests to be carried out in
accordance to ASTM D4428 to identify design
parameters as required in SAES-Q-007 for
Cross-Hole Seismic Tests
dynamically loaded foundations (e.g.
machine/pump, generator foundations etc.); depth of
such tests should be, at least, 10m.
Percolation tests to be carried out where septic tanks
to be constructed as per SASC-S-02; depth of the
percolation tests should be the same as the depth of
Percolation Tests
the proposed trenches or seepage pits, and the test
holes should be uniformly spread over the proposed
soil absorption field.
For all structures other than septic tanks, hydraulic
Permeability Tests
conductivity tests to be carried out when

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permeability is an issue e.g. pump stations, dry

docks, deep excavation, cut off walls etc.
Dynamic Cone Penetometer (DCP) soundings shall
be performed at all soil deposits encountered on site
in accordance to B1377-9:1990 (not required for
rocky area); DCPs shall be performed, as an
alternative to other exploratory holes, at places
Dynamic Cone Penetometer
where a quick detection of soft/loose soils within the
specified depth and, subsequent, estimation of
thickness/stiffness/strength of those soils (for usage
on subsequent foundation design) is required; DCPs
should terminate when refusal has reached.
Plate load tests are applicable for footings design
and are considered in cases under which the mass
characteristics of the soils are shown considerable
Plate Load Tests variations compared to those from laboratory tests
results, and also when accurate settlements
measurements are required. Plate load tests shall be
performed as per B1377-9:1990.
The in-situ pressure meter tests can be used to aid in
the design of foundations for all types of soils,
including residual soils. The settlements of
foundations can be estimated using a deformation
modulus, which can be derived from the pseudo-
elastic phase (or straight-line portion) of the load
Pressuremeter Tests
deformation diagram. The pressure meter test is,
generally, performed by applying pressure to the
sidewalls of a borehole. Therefore, by employing in-
situ pressuremeter tests total settlements (due to the
imposed loads) achieved on various layers either
cohesive or granular can be calculated.
8.2 Laboratory Tests
In addition to the above in situ field tests, laboratory testing (e.g. classification,
compaction, strength, consolidation) on selected samples retrieved from the
boreholes - and any trial pits done - as necessary to determine relevant
engineering properties in relation to the proposed structures, shall be carried out
as part of the various investigation phases.
Page 18 of 24
Table 3: Typical Laboratory Tests
Laboratory Test Comment

Soil classification for all samples For all boreholes soils
Particle size distribution (grain size analysis) For soil classification
Direct shear box tests (friction angle/shear
For strength measurements
strength)
Density tests of soil For density
Oedometer/consolidation test For settlement prediction
Compaction tests For maximum density
CRB tests (3 point test) For pavement/road design
Atterberg limits (for cohesive soils) For cohesive soils
Uniaxial compression strength (UCS) tests on
For rock samples
rocks
Chemical analysis of soil For concrete design
Chemical analysis of ground water For concrete design
Vane shear tests For cohesive samples
Triaxial tests For specialist design
9 Monitoring or Verification Investigations
Monitoring or verification investigations may be performed during the project execution

for ensuring that actual performance or design parameters are corresponding to the
design tolerances and performance estimates; or to verify soil/rock conditions,
groundwater or other geologic aspects.
The scopes of work for these investigations are unique to the specific project need and
as such are not further addressed in this Best Practice.
Revision Summary
27 May 2018 New Saudi Aramco Best Practice.

Page 19 of 24
Appendix 1 -
Guideline for Borehole Density and Depth

Page 20 of 24
Preliminary Investigation Detailed Investigation

Based on project details & location Geotechnical engineer may Based on project details & location Geotechnical engineer may
recommend variation on the field test density and depths recommend variation on the test density and depths
Type of
Investigation Density Investigation Depth Investigation Density Investigation Depth
Structure/Activity
For Seismic Site Class

Determination Minimum 1 boring per site 30m Minimum 1 boring per site 30m
(ASCE-7)
Minimum depth of 10m or 4
times the expected isolated
footing width or 2 times the
Minimum 1 boring per Minimum 1 boring per
One Story Buildings Minimum depth of 10m expected mat width whichever is
1000sqm or less in size 200sqm
more; in case of expected pile
usage depth to be taken 10 times
the pile diameter below pile tip
Two/Three Story Minimum 1 boring per Minimum 1 boring per
Minimum depth of 15m expected mat width whichever is
Buildings 1000sqm or less in size 200sqm
Buildings taller than Minimum 1 boring per Minimum 1 boring per
Four Stories 1000sqm or less in size 200sqm
Page 21 of 24
Large One Story Minimum depth of 15m or 4 times Minimum depth of 15m or 4
the expected isolated footing width times the expected isolated
Structures
or 2 times the expected mat width footing width or 2 times the
(Warehouses, Minimum1 boring per Minimum 1 boring per
whichever is more; in case of expected mat width whichever is
Commercial Centers, 1000sqm or less in size 300sqm
expected pile usage depth to be more; in case of expected pile
Manufacturing taken 10 times the pile diameter usage depth to be taken 10 times
Facilities) below pile tip the pile diameter below pile tip
Minimum depth of 20m or 4 times Minimum depth of 20m or 4
or 2 times the expected mat width footing width or 2 times the
Stadiums/Sports Minimum 1 boring per Minimum 1 boring per
whichever is more; in case of expected mat width whichever is
Centers 1000sqm or less in size 300sqm of structure footprint
expected pile usage depth to be more; in case of expected pile
taken 10 times the pile diameter usage depth to be taken 10 times
below pile tip the pile diameter below pile tip
Minimum depth of 15m or 4 times Minimum depth of 15m or 4
Transmission Towers, or 2 times the expected mat width footing width or 2 times the
Minimum 1 boring per Minimum 1 boring per
Electrical Substations, whichever is more; in case of expected mat width whichever is
structure structure
Transformer Pads expected pile usage depth to be more; in case of expected pile
taken 5 times the pile diameter usage depth to be taken 5 times
below pile tip the pile diameter below pile tip
Overhead Transmission Minimum of 1 boring every 1 Minimum 1 boring per each
Line km (linear route) transmission tower
Minimum depth of 1.5 times the Minimum 1 boring at center
Circular Tanks (steel or Minimum 1 boring at center 1.5 times the tank diameter or 7m
tank diameter or 7m in rock with and borings at circumference
concrete) of each tank in rock with RQD>40%
RQD>40% at spacing of 30m
Page 22 of 24

Parks/Community Minimum 1 boring per Minimum 1 boring per
Centers 1000sqm of structure area 200sqm of structure area
Minimum 1 boring per 1km;
Minimum 1 boring per 2km; Minimum depth of 5m or 3 times Minimum depth of 5m or 3 times
seismic refraction tests and
Pipelines/Culverts seismic refraction tests to be the expected external pipe diameter the expected external pipe
test pits to be taken in between
taken in between boreholes whichever is more diameter whichever is more;
boreholes
Minimum 1 boring per Minimum depth of 4 times the Minimum depth of 4 times the
Pipelines Anchors Minimum 1 boring per anchor
anchor expected footing width expected footing width
Sheet Piles, Retaining
Minimum 1 boring per 300m Minimum 1 boring per 100m
Structures, Earth walls, Minimum depth at or behind the Minimum depth at or behind the
plus a line of borings behind plus a line of borings behind
Soil/Rock Anchors, Soil wall twice the wall height wall twice the wall height
the wall at 300m intervals the wall at 200m intervals
Nails
Minimum 1 boring per pier. Minimum 1 boring per pier.
Minimum depth to be taken 10 Minimum depth to be taken 10
Minimum 3 borings per Minimum 3 borings per
Bridges and Viaducts times the pile diameter below pile times the pile diameter below pile
abutment. Minimum 1 boring abutment. Minimum 1 boring
tip tip
per two shafts per shaft
Minimum 1 boring every Minimum depth of 1 tunnel Minimum depth of 1 tunnel
Tunnels Minimum 1 boring every 50m
200m diameter below tunnel floor diameter below tunnel floor
Minimum 2 borings Minimum 2 borings
perpendicular to cuts to Minimum depth to be taken 6m perpendicular to cuts to define Minimum depth to be taken 6m
Slopes (> 5m)
define profiles. Profiles to be below cut profiles. Profiles to be taken below cut
taken every 500m along cuts every 200m along cuts
Airport Fields (runways Minimum 1 boring every Minimum 1 boring every
Minimum depth of 15m Minimum depth of 15m
and taxiways) 500sqm 200sqm
Page 23 of 24
Minimum 1 boring every Minimum 1 boring every

500m in changeable soils and 250m in changeable soils and
1000m in uniform soils. 500m in uniform soils.
Dynamic Cone Penetometers Dynamic Cone Penetometers
can be used as an alternative. can be used as an alternative.
Minimum depth of 5m below the Minimum depth of 5m below the
Roads/Highways Trial pits every 500m for Trial pits every 200m for
finished road level finished road level
determination of lab CBR determination of lab CBR
from samples taken from from samples taken from
expected final sub grade expected final sub grade level.
level. In situ CBR every In situ CBR every 200m at
500m at final sub grade level final sub grade level
Isolated rigid
foundations (e.g. Minimum of 1 boring for
Minimum depth four times (isolated Minimum of 1 boring per Minimum depth four times the
Booster & Shipping foundation of less than
footings) the footing width equipment footing width (isolated footings)
Pumps, Generators, and 250sqm
Skids etc.)
Trenchless Pipeline
Construction –
Refer to SAES-L-470
Horizontal Directional
Drilling (HDD)
Near Shore investigation (rubble mound or composite breakwater, sloping seawall, vertical gravity type seawall and gravity type quay wall, piled
near shore structure, dry docks, dredging - lowering sea bed, dredging - slope stability, reclamation - fill material) shall follow SAES-Q-014
Page 24 of 24

SABP Q 015 Investigation Scope

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Best Practice

SABP-Q-015 27 May 2018

Previous Issue: New Next Planned Update: TBD

©Saudi Aramco 2018. All rights reserved.

This Best Practice establishes guidelines and recommendations for the

This Best Practice provides recommendations for preparing geotechnical

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

1.4 Conflicts with Mandatory Standards

2.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards (SAES)

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures (SAEP)

Saudi Aramco Sanitary Code

Saudi Aramco Construction Safety Manual

2.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

American Society for Testing and Materials

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

ASTM D5878 Standard Guide for Using Rock-Mass Classification

US Army Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army

American Society of Civil Engineers

Saudi Building Code

3 General Requirements of Geotechnical Scope of Work

Geotechnical investigations explore the subsurface conditions for the

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

3.1 Geotechnical Scope of Work Requirements

The Geotechnical Scope of Work needs to be produced using “CSD Scope of

The Scope of Work must include:

- The project phase (FEL1/business case, etc.)

- The geotechnical information, recommendations and

- Any specific issues that need to be addressed

2. Site description, including topographic maps, aerial photos, existing

3. A full description of the project, including:

- Descriptions of the types of structures and facilities to be

- Approximate foundation loads and dimensions

- Final grade and/or anticipated cut or fill to be undertaken

- Basements and other excavation depths

- Slopes, drainage, retention basin design, etc.

- Other project details which may impact the geotechnical

4. Field tests to be performed indicating type, depth and numbers (in

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5. Laboratory tests to be carried out designating types and also

6. A description of any special tests or requirements to be carried out.

7. A detailed site plan including the locations of the existing and

9. Information on site access, ID and work permit requirements.

10. The completed checklist of “Required Geotechnical Services” as

4 Geotechnical Investigations at Various Project Phases

Planning of the geotechnical investigations is to be made in such a way that all

1. Identification of soil/rock formations and groundwater conditions encountered on

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

3. Identification of geotechnical/geologic hazards/risks and mitigation strategy.

In cases where cavities within rock formations are encountered or are

4.1 Sequence of Geotechnical Investigations

- Planning-level geotechnical reconnaissance investigations related to site

- Preliminary geotechnical investigations undertaken for the approximate

- Detailed geotechnical investigations undertaken for the detailed design of

- Monitoring or verification investigations during or after the project

For projects following the front-end loading methodology, geotechnical

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Preliminary Investigation Report A, B, C FEL 2 - Study G2 of FEL2

Small projects may only require a single detailed structure-specific geotechnical

The results of previous geotechnical investigations shall be made available and

5 Site Selection Geotechnical Reconnaissance Investigations

During site selection stage, planning-level geotechnical reconnaissance investigations

The overall objectives of planning-level geotechnical reconnaissance investigations are