Document # TECH‐SPEC‐010

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Date 10‐MARCH‐11
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1.01 CLEARING AND GRUBBING

Unless otherwise specified, the areas designated for clearing and grubbing shall be cleared of all trees,
stumps, bushes, roots, rubbish, debris, and other objectionable matters.

Before removal of any trees or shrubs the Contractor shall obtain written consent from the Local
Authority at least two weeks in advance of the planned removal. The Engineer's approval of any
removal of trees and undergrowth must be obtained before commencement of work.

Trees and plants designated for preservation shall be protected from injury or damage which could
result from the Contractor's operations including dewatering. The form of protection for vegetation
within the site shall be of a type and standard approved by the Local Authority.

The Contractor shall avoid, as far as practicable, injury to shrubbery, vines, plants, grasses and other
vegetation growing outside of the clearing limits. The dragging, piling and burning of debris, the piling
of materials of various kinds and the performing of other work which may be injurious to vegetation
shall, in so far as practicable, be confined to areas which have no vegetation or which will be disturbed
by excavation.

For the full width to be cleared, all objectionable materials and any other obstructions shall be grubbed
from areas to be excavated, to the satisfaction of the Engineer.

The topsoil should be scarified to a depth of at least 15 centimeters and investigated if any unsuitable
materials exists. The unsuitable materials, if any, shall be removed to the depth required by the
Engineer's Representative and replaced by approved suitable material.

Cavities left below subgrade elevation by the removal of stumps or roots shall be carefully backfilled
and the backfill material compacted to the Engineer's satisfaction.

All tree trunks, stumps, bush, limbs, roots, vegetation, and other debris removed in clearing and
grubbing shall be removed to approve location outside the right-of-way or otherwise disposed of so as
to leave the roadway and adjacent areas free from unsightly debris. Burning shall be done at such time
and in such manner as to prevent any damage to areas adjoining the right-of-way. (Subject to
approval of Engineer)

1.02 REMOVAL OF STRUCTURES AND OBSTRUCTIONS

1.02.1 GENERAL

Removal of structures and obstructions shall consist of the removal, wholly or in part, and satisfactory
disposal of all structures and obstructions within the right-of-way which have not been designated to
remain. Salvaging designated materials shall be included.

Prior to starting the removal of structures and obstructions, the Contractor shall carry out a thorough
survey of structures, fences, trees, etc., that are to be removed. The Engineer shall be fully informed
of the results of this survey and the amount and extent of the planned removal and the plan shall then
be agreed by the Engineer.
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Indications on the Drawings that existing structures, pavements sidewalks, curbs, gutters and other
existing improvements are to become an integral part of the planned improvements shall be
considered to mean that such designated improvements are to remain even though not specifically
noted to remain.

Existing highways, improvements, facilities, adjacent property and services designated for preservation
shall be protected from injury or damage which could result from the Contractor's operations. The
Contractor shall raze, remove and dispose of all structures and obstructions as required including, but
not limited to, the following: buildings, sheds, walls, slabs, foundations, inlets, catch basins, culverts,
headwalls, trash racks, irrigation structures, standpipes, manholes, valves, ditch lining, pipelines, tanks,
pool lining, posts, poles, columns, signs, fences, gates, planters, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, driveways,
trees, stumps, shrubs and plants.

Holes, cavities, trenches or depressions left by the removal of structures or obstructions shall be
backfilled with suitable materials and compacted to the grade required or as directed by the Engineer.

1.02.2 REMOVAL OF PIPES

Where required, the Contractor shall be responsible, prior to removal of pipes, for the disconnection of
all services and clearance from the employee, all Service Authorities and concerned Parties.

All pipes to be removed and either salvaged or relaid shall be carefully removed and every precaution
taken to avoid breaking or damaging the pipe. The pipes shall be stored when necessary so that there
will be no loss or damage before relaying. The Contractor will be required to replace sections lost from
storage or damage by negligence or by the use of improper methods in their removal or reinstallation.
All coordinates, level and alignment of pipes to be recorded before removal.

1.03 STRUCTURAL EXCAVATION

1.03.1 GENERAL

Structural excavation shall consist of the excavation and removal of all materials necessary for the
construction of structures, pipelines and cables/ducts, including foundations and substructures, in
accordance with the details shown on the Drawings and these Specifications and/or as directed.

Before starting excavation, trench dimensions should be determined with the following consideration:

• Pipe size and outside diameter of the jacket pipe

• Type of joint and required space around the joint for field insulation.

• Road traffic and surface load after backfill

• Adequate space for installation

• Space for other services

• Any local authority requirements

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The Contractor shall notify the Engineer a sufficient time in advance of the beginning of excavation to
allow pre-construction measurements and records to be made of the undisturbed ground. The required
excavation shall then be performed in reasonably close conformity to the lines, grades and cross
sections established or shown on the Drawings.

The Contractor shall take all necessary steps by means of shoring, timbering, or otherwise to avoid
slips and falls of the sides of the excavation but if any should occur the Contractor shall remove at his
own expense all such fallen or disturbed material from the excavation and shall replace with backfilling
as described elsewhere.

Where a firm bearing material is not encountered at the elevation established for bearing, due to soft,
spongy or otherwise unstable soil, all such unsuitable material shall be removed to the extent directed.

No back throwing shall be allowed and all materials must be brought to the surface and placed clear of
the trench side.

The Contractor shall keep the trench excavation free from water at all times.

The Engineer reserves the right to direct the Contractor as to the lengths of trench or portions of bulk
excavations which shall remain open at any one time.

1.03.2 PRE-CONSTRUCTION RECORDS

a) Existing Ground Levels (EGL) or Original Ground levels( OGL) shall be agreed at suitable intervals
with the Engineer's Representative, along with the network route and jointly recorded.

b) Surface materials and conditions will be recorded in collaboration with the Engineer's
Representative and where appropriate the owners or occupiers of the land. All street light poles,
signages, curbstone, asphalt, interlock, green area, landscaped etc effected in the project to be
recorded with coordinate & photographs. Bench mark and spot levels referred to be clearly
marked in the drawings.

c) The Contractor shall take photographs to illustrate existing damage or conditions which may prove
contentious at the time of reinstatement.

This information shall be neatly presented in bound volumes and submitted to the Engineer. To this
shall be added details of any existing natural or piped subsoil drainage or other underground features
as work proceeds.

Trial excavations may be ordered by hand or other methods to reveal sub-surface conditions of any
kind. The Contractor shall submit a written report or sketch drawings of data so obtained and the
excavations shall not be backfilled without approval.

1.03.3 SETTING OUT

Before any structural excavation is commenced the Contractor shall define the centre line or other
agreed reference line of the Works and erect the necessary profiles throughout their full length if so
required by the Engineer. The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining all verifications from the
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concerned Survey.

The centre line of the trench to be marked / pegged before start of excavation.

1.03.4 TOPSOIL AND SURFACING MATERIALS

Before commencing excavations or filling to an area, topsoil and other surfacing materials shall be
stripped and stored separately from the subsoil. Subsequent spreading of topsoil shall be as directed
on site.

1.03.5 HAND EXCAVATION

Where instructed or necessary for reasons of limited access or any other reason, excavation shall be
carried out by hand at no additional cost.

1.03.6 SUPPORT TO EXCAVATIONS

The Contractor shall provide the necessary support for excavations and shall submit to the Engineer his
proposals for the supporting of excavations by trench sheeting or other approved means at least seven
days prior to the commencement of any excavation works. His proposals shall take into account the
nature of the ground to be excavated, the level of the water table at the site and the proximity of
buildings and roads.

If in the opinion of the Engineer the support proposed for the excavations by the Contractor is
insufficient then the Engineer will order the provision of stronger support than that provided by the
Contractor and in this event the Contractor shall adopt the methods so ordered by the Engineer and
shall have no claim against the Employer for any costs incurred in adopting the additional measures.

Trench supports shall be so arranged to permit withdrawal during the placing of the pipe bedding and
backfilling so as to prevent voids.

The Contractor shall not remove temporary works supporting the excavations until in the opinion of the
Engineer the permanent work is sufficiently advanced to permit such removal which shall be executed
under the personal supervision of a competent foreman assigned by the Contractor.

All temporary works supporting the excavation shall be removed during backfilling unless previous
approval has been obtained from the Engineer. Where temporary supports have been used in the
excavation any such supports left in because it is impracticable to remove them shall be left in at the
expense of the Contractor.

Any advice, permission, approval or instruction given by the Engineer relative to such support or the
removal thereof shall not relieve the Contractor from his responsibilities or liabilities under the
Contract.

Timbering steel sheeting strutting and sheet piling for the support of excavations where provided shall
be fixed in accordance with BS 6031.
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Battered sides to trenches or other excavations will only be permitted if they can be constructed within
the limits of the site, without damage or interference to existing services, properties or structures,
without undue interference with pedestrians and traffic and to slopes which are sufficiently flat to
ensure stability of the ground.

1.03.7 DEWATERING

In case of a high water table the Contractor must do all necessary measures to ensure proper dry
conditions are maintained at all times during construction. The Contractor shall provide and maintain
ample means and devices (including spare units kept ready for immediate use in case of breakdowns)
with which to intercept and/or remove promptly and dispose properly of all water entering trenches
and other excavations. Such excavations shall be kept dry until the structures, pipes, and
appurtenances to be built therein have been completed. In addition precautions shall be taken to
prevent floatation of partially built structures, completed structures to be filled on commissioning of the
Works and pipelines awaiting backfilling.

Dewatering methods proposed in the Contractor’s method statements may include temporary drains,
intercepting ditches, cut-off drains, sub-drains, sumps, wells, pumps, well-points or other dewatering
equipment and shall include all other things necessary to keep water out of the excavations or to lower
groundwater around structures liable to floatation.

All necessary precautions shall be taken to prevent any adjacent ground from being adversely affected
by loss of fines through any dewatering process.

Method statements shall include proposals for disposal of the water arising from dewatering systems.

NOC to be obtained by the Contractor from concerned authority for discharge of ground
water.

All water pumped or drained from the work shall be disposed of in a suitable manner without undue
interference with other work, damage to pavements, other surfaces, or property. Suitable temporary
pipes, flumes, or channels shall be provided for water that may flow along or across the site of the
work. No such water is to be disposed of into the existing sewer systems of the town or otherwise
without prior written approval of the Local Authority and Irrigation Department.

If permission is given to use new or existing pipes or culverts which are not part of the live sewerage
system, they shall be thoroughly cleaned of all silt and any resulting damage made good after use.

When the Contractor proposes to make use of existing dewatering pipelines, ducts, etc., he shall
satisfy himself as to their condition prior to his use of them. If any of these items is found to be in an
unsatisfactory condition then, before use, the Contractor shall notify the Engineer who may give
instructions for the item to be replaced or repaired. Time taken to carry out such work will not be
considered as delay to the Contractor's operations.

During use the Contractor shall be responsible for the condition of the pipeline, duct, etc., and any
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defect or failure shall be made good at the Contractor's expense. Any delay to the Contractor's works
caused by such defect or failure shall be deemed as the Contractor's responsibility.

After use by the Contractor such pipeline, duct, etc., shall be handed back to the Municipality/Tecom in
a condition not less than that at the commencement of use. Any repairs or replacement required shall
be at the Contractor's expense.

It cannot be guaranteed that permission will be given to use existing ducts and pipelines.

All temporary works for control of water shall be sited clear of the Works, except where temporary
sub-drains under the Works are approved in which case the pipes shall be laid with a 75 mm surround
of gravel, and the top surface of the surround shall be covered with tarred felt cloth or other approved
material.

Unless otherwise directed all temporary drains and sub-drains shall be finally sealed with concrete at
approved intervals and all temporary ditches, sumps, wells, etc., shall be refilled and reinstated as
specified elsewhere.

All necessary precautions shall be taken to prevent any groundwater from entering mains to be used
for the conveyance of potable water.

1.03.7.1 TEMPORARY UNDERDRAINS

Temporary underdrains, if used, shall be laid in trenches, beneath the grade of the structure. Trenches
shall be of suitable dimensions to provide room for the chosen size of underdrain and its surrounding
gravel. Underdrains, if used, shall be laid at an approved distance below the bottom of the normal
excavation and with open joints wrapped in geotextile, and entirely surrounded by graded gravel, or
crushed stone to prevent the admission of sand or other soil into the underdrains. The distance
between the bottom of the pipe or structure and the top of the bell of the underdrain pipe shall be at
least 8 cm. unless otherwise permitted. The space between the underdrain and the pipe or structure
shall be filled with screened gravel or crushed stone which shall be rammed if necessary and left with a
surface suitable for laying the pipe or building the structure.

1.03.7.2 WELLPOINT DRAINAGE SYSTEM

Where the nature of the Works necessitates, the Contractor shall dewater the excavations by means of
an efficient wellpoint drainage system which will drain the soil and prevent saturated soil from flowing
into the excavation. The wellpoints shall be designed especially for this type of service. The pumping
unit shall be designed for use with the wellpoints, and shall be capable of maintaining a high vacuum
and of handling large volumes of air and water at the same time.

If required by the nature of the Works, the installation of the wellpoints, pumps, surge tanks,
settlement tanks, geotextile and other such requirements shall be done under the supervision of the
competent representative of the manufacturer. The Contractor shall do all special work such as
surrounding the wellpoints with sand or gravel or other work which is necessary for the wellpoint
system to operate for the successful dewatering of the excavations.
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Material to be used in the wellpoint system is to be corrosion resistant where possible.

1.03.8 FORMATION LEVEL OF TRENCH

Damage to the formation shall be prevented by bottoming-up with hand excavation immediately before
placing concrete or pipe laying. Any damaged formation shall be excavated and refilled with concrete
or selected material as instructed.

The formation of excavations for pipelines shall be dry, even and free of stones and other protrusions.

No permanent works of any kind shall be constructed on an excavated surface until the formation has
been approved by the Engineer’s Representative.

Formation level of the trench to be leveled, watered, compacted and compaction test be taken at 30m
internal along the trench. Once the formation is ready, dune sand ,150mm thick to be laid in the
trench after the approval of Engineer. Dune sand laid in the trench to be leveled, watered and
compacted for placement of pipes.

1.03.9 EXCAVATION AT OR NEAR ROADS

1.03.9.1 SAFETY

When excavating at or near roads, to protect persons from injury and to avoid interference with traffic,
adequate barricades, construction signs, torches, guards, flashing lights, etc., shall be provided and
maintained during the progress of the construction work. All materials, stockpiles and equipment shall
be placed in such a way that no obstruction or interference to traffic is made and that these are
enclosed by fences or barricades and protected by lights.

All excavations shall be protected on all sides by an approved temporary yellow plastic safety fencing,
concrete jersey barrier/UPVC barrier, cones and lights as per site condition. The yellow plastic safety
fencing shall be manufactured of durable HDP polymer with Ultra Violet stabilizers. The safety fencing
shall be a minimum of 1.0 metre high.

1.03.9.2 DESCRIPTION

The Contractor shall make excavations in such a manner and to such minimum widths as will give
adequate room for building the structures or laying and jointing the piping; shall furnish and place all
sheeting, bracing, and supports; shall carry out all coffer damming, pumping, and draining, and shall
render the bottom of the excavations firm and dry and acceptable in all respects.

In no case, except with the approval of the Engineer, shall the earth be plowed, scraped, or dug by
machinery so near to the finished subgrade as to result in the disturbance of material below said
subgrade, the last of the material to be excavated shall be removed by hand immediately before the
placing of the pipe, masonry, or other structure.

1.03.9.3 EXTENT OF OPEN EXCAVATION

The extent of open excavation at any one time will be controlled by the conditions, but shall always be
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confined to the limits prescribed by the Engineer and/or accepted by relevant authorities.

1.03.9.4 SEPARATION OF SURFACE MATERIALS

The Contractor shall remove only as much of any existing pavement as is necessary for the work. The
Engineer may require that the pavement be cut with pneumatic tools, cold planer, milling machine or
the like without extra compensation to the Contractor, when in the opinion of the Engineer it is
necessary to prevent damage to the remaining road surface. Where pavement is removed in large
pieces, it shall be disposed of before proceeding with the excavation.

From areas within which excavations are to be made, loam and topsoil shall be carefully removed and
separately stored to be used again as directed, or if the Contractor prefers not to separate surface
materials, he shall furnish, as directed, loam and topsoil at least equal in quantity and quality to that
excavated at no cost to the Works.

1.03.9.5 SHEETING AND BRACING

In addition to the general requirements of Clause 1.03.1 the Contractor shall furnish, put in place, and
maintain such sheeting, bracing, etc., as may be necessary to support the sides of the excavation and
to prevent any movement of earth from beneath the adjacent road surface which could in any way
diminish the width of the excavation to less than that necessary for proper construction, or could
otherwise injure or delay the work, or endanger adjacent road and structures. If the Engineer is of the
opinion that at any point sufficient proper supports have not been provided, he may order additional
supports placed at the Contractor's expense.

For any excavations in or adjacent to roads all trenches must be supported by an approved method to
ensure no settlement of roads either during construction, when withdrawing supports or thereafter.

1.03.9.6 BRIDGING TRENCHES

The Contractor shall, at his own expense, provide suitable and safe bridges and other crossings where
required for the accommodation of travel, and to provide access to private property during
construction, and shall remove said structures thereafter.

1.03.9.7 ROAD SIGNS

All existing road signs, street name plates/ duct markers and the like affected by the Works are to be
carefully taken down and stored after approval from relevant authority and recorded. Signs to be re-
erected shall be cleaned, provided with new fixings where necessary and the posts re-painted as
required. Redundant signs shall be transported to the stores or depots of relevant Authorities. Any
sign, street name plate or the like damaged by the Contractor during his operation shall be repaired or
replaced at the Contractor's cost.

1.03.10 EXCAVATION FOR STRUCTURES

Where concrete is to be placed on an excavated surface other than rock, special care shall be taken
not to disturb the bottom of the excavation. When the nature or condition of the bearing material upon
which concrete is to be placed is determined to be such that the use of heavy excavating equipment
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will reduce the stability of the soil, the final half meter of excavation to grade shall be performed either
by means of light equipment or by hand labour methods.

Should the Contractor excavate to a depth greater than that required for the construction of the
foundations or pile caps, such excavation shall be filled with Class C concrete at his own expense.
Should the material forming the bottom of any excavation, while acceptable at the time of excavation,
become puddled soft or loose during the progress of the Works, the Contractor shall at his own
expense, remove all such softened or loosened material and replace with Class C concrete as directed
by the Engineer's Representative.

Where rock, in either ledge or boulder formation or other unyielding material, is encountered in one
portion of structural excavation for a box culvert and yielding material (with bearing capacity less than
1000 kN/m2-determined by appropriate tests) is encountered in an adjacent area of the structural
excavation for the same box culvert, such unyielding material shall be removed for a minimum depth
of half meter below grade and replaced with special backfill.

Where such unyielding material is encountered in excavation other than for box culverts or where an
entire excavation for a box culvert bears on such materials, the rock or other unyielding material shall
be cleared of all loose fragments and cut to a firm surface as directed. The placing of concrete shall
follow as closely as practicable the structural excavation.

1.03.11 EXCAVATION FOR PIPELINES

Trenches for pipes shall be excavated to a sufficient depth and width to enable the pipe and any
specified or agreed joint, bedding, hunching and surrounding to be accommodated. Trenches shall be
of width as specified and as shown on the drawing.

Where rock, in either ledge or boulder formation or other unyielding material is encountered, such
unyielding material shall be removed for a minimum depth of half meter below grade and replaced
with special backfill (see Clause 1.04.3).

1.03.12 EXCAVATION FOR CABLES / DUCTS

The Contractor in carrying out excavation for cables/ducts shall, where required, erect and maintain an
approved type of temporary fencing around any work and shall provide fenced access ways across the
trenches.

The bottom of the trench shall be accurately graded. Care shall be taken not to excavate below the
depths indicated. Where rock is encountered, the rock shall be excavated to the required depth.
Uneven surfaces of the bottom of trench shall be excavated 150 mm deeper. Such depth in rock shall
be backfilled with approved fill material and compacted as specified and/or as directed by the
Engineer.

Whenever unsuitable soil is encountered, which in the opinion of the Engineer is to be removed, it shall
be removed to the depth required and the trench backfilled to the proper grade with approved fill
material
and compacted.

The width and depth of the trenches for electrical and telephone cables/ducts shall be as specified in
the relative drawings or as ordered by the Engineer. Banks may be sloped or widened to facilitate
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placement of cables, but not the extent that will cause interference with other utilities and structures.
No battering of trenches shall be allowed under existing carriageways, unless otherwise agreed by the
Engineer.

1.03.13 EXCAVATED MATERIALS

All excavated material will remain the property of the Employer unless designated as surplus to the
Contract requirements in which case it will be removed from site immediately. The Contractor shall
dispose of such surplus material.

All excavated material shall be deposited so that it will cause as little damage and inconvenience as
possible.

Excavated material for use as backfill shall be as approved. Different classes of material shall be
handled and deposited separately.

The excavated material, if found unsuitable as backfill, shall be removed from site and shall be
replaced with suitable imported backfill to the approval of the Engineer.

Unsuitable material shall include the following:

• Peat, organic soil and other similar materials.

• Materials from swamps, marshes and bogs.

• Materials susceptible to spontaneous combustion.

• Stumps, roots and perishable material.

• Excessively wet materials.

• All materials producing bearing capacity lower than the assumed design value.

• Particle size exceeding 63 mm

• Clays of liquid limit exceeding 40% and/or plasticity index exceeding 6%.

All surplus and unsuitable excavated material and rubble shall be transported to the approved tip.
Where (natural) subsoil drainage depends on the relative positions of pervious or impervious strata,
special care shall be taken to separate those materials and replace them in their natural positions.

1.03.14 REPLACEMENT OF UNSUITABLE MATERIAL

Where exceptionally poor ground conditions and unsuitable materials are encountered at the limits
(formation level) shown for structural excavation, the Contractor shall, at the direction of the Engineer,
excavate down to firm ground or 300 mm below formation, whichever is less. The extra excavation
shall be backfilled with either Class C concrete or special backfill in accordance with Clause 1.04.3.

1.03.15 DISPOSAL OF MATERIAL

The Contractor shall seek approval for all the proposed disposal sites from the Dubai Municipality
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and/or any relevant authority before work commences and disposal at such sites shall be at no extra
cost to the Employer.

No excavated material shall be wasted without written permission from the Engineer, and when such
material is to be wasted, it shall be hauled to the approved tip or as otherwise directed by the
Engineer. Excavated materials wasted by the Contractor without written permission of the Engineer
shall be replaced by the Contractor at his own expense.

The Contractor shall adhere rigidly to the requirements of Dubai Municipality on the temporary storage
and disposal of excavation material. These include but are not limited to:-

(a) All material shall be stockpiled at an approved location and surrounded with approved barricades.
The Contractor shall also display his name and contact telephone number.

(b) Certain separate areas will be designated for the disposal of hard debris such as building rubble,
broken concrete, kerbing, road pavement and the like. The Contractor shall use only these
designated areas and shall keep these disposal areas neat and tidy at all times.

1.04 BACKFILLING EXCAVATIONS

1.04.1 GENERAL

Backfilling around structures and in pipe trenches shall be carried out as detailed below except where
otherwise designated/directed.

The Contractor shall backfill all excavations in an expeditious manner to minimize disruption to the
general public.

Backfilling of trenches other than in roads and paved/ tiled areas shall normally be carried out using
selected excavated materials similar to the in-situ materials in which the trench or structure is being
constructed.

Special backfill shall be used for backfilling trenches in roads, paved/tiled areas, and where designated
or directed. Where the excavation is near an existing structure liable to subsidence, where part of the
Works may later be constructed over or near it or in emergencies the Contractor may be instructed to
backfill with concrete.

1.04.2 SELECTED BACKFILL

Material for backfilling may be selected from any part of the site and methods of selection may include
sieving to remove large particles or methods of hand or machine sorting together with soil classification
and soil property testing. Backfilling with selected material shall be carried out as defined below.

1.04.2.1 COHESIVE SOILS

Cohesive soils shall be placed in layers not greater than 150 mm thick (compacted thickness) and
compacted such that throughout each layer placed the dry density is not less than 95% of the
maximum in-situ dry density of the soil prior to excavation or the air voids content (volume of air
divided by total volume of soil) is not greater than 10% which ever gives the higher state of
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compaction.

If site trials show that the specified compaction can be achieved with layers greater than 150 mm
compacted thickness approval may be given to backfill in layers of greater thickness, but not exceeding
250 mm subject to the Engineer Approval, providing the plant utilised is that used for the trials.

The placement moisture of the soil shall be within the range 1% above to 1% below the natural in-situ
moisture content of the soil before excavation.

1.04.2.2 GRANULAR SOILS

Granular soils shall be placed in layers not greater than 150 mm thick (compacted thickness) and
compacted such that throughout each layer placed the dry density is not less than 95% of the
maximum dry density as determined by BS 1377 on the same soil at the same moisture content.

If site trials show that the specified compaction can be achieved with layers greater than 150 mm
compacted thickness approval may be given to backfill in layers of greater thickness, but not exceeding
250 mm subject to the Engineer Approval, providing the plant utilized is that used for the trials.

Unless otherwise directed the moisture content shall be maintained and if necessary adjusted by approved
means to fall within the range 1.5% of optimum moisture content.

For free draining granular soils that have no clearly defined optimum moisture content, compaction shall
be carried out to achieve a relative density of not less than 95% of MDD. During compaction the soil shall
be made as wet as practicable.

1.04.2.3 TESTING OF BACKFILL

Tests to determine the optimum dry density of the backfill material shall be carried out as directed, the
frequency depending on consistency of material and test results.

Unless directed otherwise on site testing for density and moisture content of in-situ soils shall be at the
minimum rate of:-

a. One test per backfill layer for each structure.

b. One test per backfill layer for every 20 linear meters of pipeline trench backfill laid in one operation
of 250mm.

1.04.2.4 BACKFILL FOR A REPLACEMENT LAND DRAIN

Where a land drain passes through an excavation the backfill shall first be taken up to form a bed for
replacement pipes. The severed drains shall then be exposed at each side of the trench to allow for
connection and laying of a new drain across the excavation. This new drain shall be of similar pipes of the
same diameter as those in the existing drain. Before any further backfilling is done the Contractor shall
notify the owner or occupier to enable him to inspect the reinstated land drain. The replacement drain
shall be surrounded with pipe bedding to a minimum thickness 150 mm before further backfilling.

1.04.3 SPECIAL BACKFILL

The material used for special backfill shall be obtained from designated and approved sources.

Special backfill complying with the properties of Aggregate Road base Material, shall be placed as fill or
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backfill in the areas required and in reasonably close conformity to the lines, grades and dimensions
shown on the Drawings. Special care shall be taken to keep rocks away from structures.

The materials shall be placed in layers of not more than 20 centimeters in depth before compaction, and
each layer shall be compacted by means of mechanical or pneumatic tamping devices or other suitable
equipment to density of at least 95 percent of the maximum dry density as determined in accordance
with BS 1377 Part 2.

Water shall be added to the material, by prewetting or by applying uniformly to each layer, when
required for compaction, but only of sufficient quantity to ensure proper compaction. The layers of
material placed around structures shall be placed on opposite sides to approximately the same elevation
at the same time. Special care shall be taken in placing and compacting material under haunches of all
pipe to prevent moving or raising the pipe from its bedding.

Material shall not be placed against any concrete abutment, wing wall, retaining wall, box culvert or
similar structure until the concrete has been in place at least 14 days, unless otherwise authorized.

1.04.4 FILTER MATERIAL

When required, filter material shall be placed in backfilling structures in accordance with the details
shown on the Drawings. Filter material shall conform to the specified requirements for Fine Aggregate.

1.04.5 STRUCTURAL AND NON-STRUCTURAL

Structural filling is required within road corridors and/or wherever a structure is to be supported on the fill
and where settlement is required to be minimal. Non-Structural filling will normally be carried out to
embankments and other fill areas. Embankments shall normally be overfilled and subsequently trimmed
to the required profiles.

1.04.5.1 STRUCTURAL FILLING

Structural filling shall be carried out using approved well graded natural sands and gravel or special
backfill in accordance with Clause 1.04.2.

1.04.5.2 NON-STRUCTURAL FILLING

The material and the procedure for Non-Structural filling shall be same as outlined in Clause 1.04.2

1.04.6 BACKFILLING OF TRENCHES FOR CABLES / DUCTS /PIPEWORK

After the cables/ducts have been laid, the trench refilling shall commence with approved fill in compacted
layers not exceeding 200 mm thick, each layer being well compacted by hand with iron rammers weighing
not less than 5 kg, until the trench has been filled to a height of 300 mm above the top of the cable/duct/
pipe.

The remainder of the trench shall then be refilled in compacted layers not exceeding 200 mm in thickness,
each layer being well compacted with power rammers, vibrating plate compactors or other mechanical
means of a type to be approved until the ground is thoroughly consolidated up to the required level for
surface reinstatement. Each layer shall be compacted to 95% of its maximum dry density. Should the
quantity of the excavated materials be not sufficient, due to unsuitability or otherwise, for the process of
backfill and fill, the Contractor shall obtain the quantity required of such backfill and fill from approved
borrow pits and transport same to the site of work at his own expense.

Trenches shall not be backfilled until all required tests are performed and until the Engineer has verified
that the cables, etc., have been installed in accordance with the Specifications and Drawings.
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Lumps and clods shall be broken up before use. Materials shall not be dropped from a height and where
directed water shall be added to assist in adequate consolidation.

Where cover to cables/ducts is less than 400 mm, or where ordered by the Engineer, protection in the
form of concrete encasing shall be provided according to an approved drawing or as ordered by the
Engineer.

1.05 PROTECTION OF EXISTING SERVICES AND REINSTATEMENT

1.05.1 GENERAL

Where new pipes, mains, cables/ducts, etc., are to be laid alongside, over or under the existing, the
Contractor shall take care to interfere as little as possible with the existing services and connections
thereto and any damage shall be repaired by the Contractor to the approval of the appropriate Authority
or by appropriate Authority at the cost of the Contractor.

The Contractor shall make all arrangements for protecting existing services and for temporarily diverting
them to maintain the services without interruption.

Existing services, pipes, mains, ducts, etc., exposed in trenches for new work shall be protected in
accordance with the requirements of the relevant Authority before trenches are refilled.
The Contractor shall lay cables, fittings, specials, etc., under hedges, fences, walls, etc., as necessary.
Where hedges are damaged or destroyed the whole shall be restored and reinstated as directed by
concerned authority.

Where fences or walls are damaged or destroyed the whole shall be restored and reinstated with like
materials to the satisfaction of the owners or occupiers and the Engineer.

The Contractor shall ensure that no trees are damaged or permanently removed in carrying out the
Contract except where directed due to the presence of permanent works.

1.05.2 REINSTATEMENT OF UNPAVED LAND

In general the reinstatement of stripped areas of unpaved land shall restore the ground to a condition not
inferior to that which existed before the site was occupied.

The compacted backfill shall be taken up to a level which allows for settlement. In arable, grassed and
similar areas the surface to be topsoiled shall then be loosened to a depth of 200 mm and topsoil replaced
on it to the specified depth without compaction using approved topsoil of comparable quality to make up
any deficiency.

Areas where grass is to be sown shall be worked to a fine tilth, levelled, graded and rolled with a light
roller. The seed shall be sown evenly at the specified rate of application in the proper season and in
suitable weather conditions, and the areas again rolled. Restoration and re-seeding of any areas where
the new grass is inadequate shall be carried out as instructed.

As an alternative to seeding the 'dibbing in' at 200 mm centres of 'Bugunda' or similar tropical grass tufts
may be required.

The grass shall be well watered four times a day and the Contractor will be required to keep the grass cut
short until the Defects Liability Certificate has been issued.
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1.05.3 REINSTATEMENT WITHIN ROAD CORRIDORS

Trenches and other excavations within road corridors may be opened in four types of ground:-

(a) in paved carriageways

(b) in footpaths and other paved areas (other than carriageways)

(c) in grassed verges and planted areas

(d) in unmade ground which does not fall into any of the above three categories.

In addition there could be four classes of carriageway construction as follows:-

(a) Estate roads: single carriageway

(b) Main access: single/dual carriageway

(c) Primary distributors

(d) Main arterials/highways, etc.

All reinstatement works falling into the above categories/classes shall be carried out either in compliance
with the Local Authority or in compliance with the details shown on the Contract Drawings, whichever is
the greater in either construction depth or asphalt thickness.

1.05.4 REINSTATEMENT OF OTHER SURFACED AREAS

Surfaced areas not in road corridors shall be reinstated using materials similar to and not inferior to those
existing prior to commencement of the Works.

1.05.5 EXCAVATION AND REINSTATEMENT IN DEVELOPED RESERVATIONS

The concerned authorities Horticulture Section will remove any trees, bushes and plants from developed
reservations that employer wish to preserve prior to the commencement of work by the Contractor. The
Contractor must allow in his rates for the removal and disposal of any remaining trees, bushes and plants
necessary for the execution of the Works and to keep sweet soil separate in accordance with the current
Local Order.

The reinstatement of the developed reservation shall be in accordance with Clause 1.05.4 above.

1.06 GRANULAR MATERIAL FOR PIPE BEDDING OF OTHER SERVICES EX DRAINAGE/SEMERAGE

Granular material for pipe bedding shall be free-draining, hard, clean, chemically stable gravel or crushed
stone to BS 882 and shall be graded in accordance with BS 882 : Part 2 as shown in the following table:-
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- Grading of Granular Material for Pipe

Bedding
Percentage by Weight Passing Sieve
Test Sieve
For Pipe Diameters For Pipe Diameters
( mm)
400 mm and above
up to 600 mm
63 - -
37.5 - -
20 - 100
14 100 85-100
10 85-100 0-50
5 0-25 0-10
2.36 0-5 -

Notes:
1) For pipes 400 mm to 600 mm diameter, either grading is acceptable.
2) Total acid soluble content of the material when tested in accordance with BS1377 shall
not exceed 0.3 percent by weight of sulphate expressed as SO3 (sulphur trioxide).
3) The material shall have a Compaction Fraction value not exceeding 0.15.
4) For uPVC pipes only rounded aggregates will be permitted but for all other
pipe materials crushed aggregates may also be used.

1.07 CONVENTIONAL (OPEN TRENCH) PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

1.07.1 GENERAL
1.07.1.1 PELINES IN WIDE TRENCHES

No wide unsupported trenches shall be permitted, in general, within the area of the Works and therefore
all trenches should conform to the minimum trench widths stated above and shall be supported with the
use of approved trench sheeting or sheet piles. However in exceptional circumstances wide trenches may
be approved by the Engineer in which cases the following shall apply :-

(a) Wide trenches shall be constructed to not less than the defined widths for those categories of Group
B flexible pipelines in granular bedding defined below.

(b) Prior to commencing trench excavation in an area an assessment of the Modulus of Deformation
(E's) shall be made of the soils likely to be encountered at springing level of the pipes. In
non-cohesive soils, proved static cone penetrometer tests shall be carried out prior to excavation. In
cohesive soils other approved methods shall be used to determine E's. Alternatively, standard
penetration tests may be required by the Engineer prior to excavation to suite pipe manufacturer’s
standard method of deflection and trench widths. Tests shall be carried out at intervals to be
determined on site which in variable ground conditions may be to every pipe length.

(c) If the value of E’s determined from the results of such tests is greater than 2.5 MN/m2 then trench
width is not critical. If less than 2.5 MN/m2 then trench widths shall be constructed to the widths
defined in the following table unless alternative means of increasing the passive resistance of the
trench sides are detailed or are proposed in method statements where economic or environmental
restrictions make wide trenches undesirable.
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B - Wide Trench Widths for Non-Cohesive Soils

Static Cone Penetrometer Test Modulus of Deformation E's Wide Trench Widths
(Kg/cm2) (MN/m2) (mm)
8.5-7.7 2.50-2.25 2.5* dia
7.7-6.1 2.25-1.80 2.5* dia
6.1-3.1 1.80-0.90 4.0* dia
3.1 0.90 5.0* dia

Alternative solutions to wide trench conditions may be adopted including increasing stiffness of the pipes
used or encasing with concrete as agreed by the Engineer.

1.07.2 PIPE LAYING AND JOINING

Pipes and fittings shall be laid and jointed in accordance with all relevant recommendations of the
manufacturer. Any variations between the manufacturer’s recommendations and this specification shall
be highlighted in the Contractor’s Method Statements and a ruling will be given with the Engineer’s
agreement.

Pipes and fittings shall be checked prior to laying and jointing.

The setting of the pipeline to the required levels and alignment shall be carried out by approved
procedure pipe to be laid in trench after formation of trench is leveled, compacted and tests are taken.
Pipe to be laid as per approved profile and as per Engineers approval.

The Contractor shall make sure that all joints are made strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions.

Pressure pipelines shall be secured at all changes in direction by concrete anchor blocks or other means
of restraint approved in advance by the Engineer if required or directed by Engineer.

After laying a length of pipeline but before preliminary testing is carried out, the pipeline shall be checked
for level and gradient on top of the pipes. If a pipe is not at the correct level, it shall be unjointed and
removed, the bed shall be adjusted and the pipe shall be relaid and rechecked for line and level.
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Pipelines shall be temporarily capped when pipe laying ceases to prevent the ingress of foreign matter.
The Contractor shall ensure that the pipes remain clean and free from obstructions, and if required by
the Engineer, the pipelines shall be cleaned out using approved methods and equipment which do not
damage the internal lining of the pipes.

1.07.3 PIPELINES IN CONCRETE CRADLES AND SURROUNDS

Where pipes are to be laid with a concrete cradle or surround they shall be supported initially above the
trench bottom on concrete setting blocks. The blocks shall either be laid accurately to level and covered
with damp-proof sheeting beneath the pipe barrel or shall be provided with two hardwood wedges each
to an approved pattern to enable the pipe level to be adjusted.

The blocks and wedges shall be of sufficient size and strength to prevent settlement of the pipes during
laying and at least two concrete blocks shall be provided for each pipe.

Concrete cradles and surrounds shall be of Class A. The concrete shall be poured on one side of the pipe
until it can be worked under the pipe along its full length to ensure that no voids develop. The concrete
shall then be brought up equally on both sides of the pipe until the required level is reached.

The length of pipeline laid in any one operation before concreting the pipeline shall be that which in the
opinion of the Engineer permits accurate laying of the pipeline and concreting in an efficient and proper
manner.

Approved measures appropriate to the pipe material shall be provided to prevent flotation or other
movement during placement or curing of the concrete.

Concrete cradles to pipes of all diameters and surrounds to pipes of one metre diameter or less shall be
poured in a single lift. Concrete surrounds to pipes over one metre diameter shall normally be poured in
two lifts, with a horizontal joint not more than 100 mm below the crown of the pipe.

Concrete cradles and surrounds shall be interrupted over their full cross sectional area at each pipe joint,
by shaped expansion joint filler. The thickness of filler shall be 18 mm for pipe diameter less than 450, 36
mm for pipe diameter 450 to 1200 and 54 mm for pipe diameters greater than 1200.

In spigot and socket pipelines the joints in the bed shall be at the face of each socket.

In all flexible joints the annulus of the pipe socket shall be sealed with an approved sealant to prevent
the concrete from entering the pipe joint.

When support to excavations is provided, building paper or an approved material shall be placed against
that support before concreting to facilitate withdrawal of the support.

1.07.4 PIPELINES ON GRANULAR BEDS FOR DRAINAGE/SEWERAGE PIPES

Where granular beddings to pipelines are detailed the minimum thickness of bedding material beneath
the pipe shall be:-
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The time interval between placing bedding material on the trench formation and commencing pipe laying
shall be as short as is practicable. The bedding material shall extend to the full width of the trench and
shall be compacted in layers not exceeding 200 mm. The bedding material shall be carefully compacted
using a plate vibrator or other approved equivalent mechanical method. Sufficient passes of a plate
vibrator or other approved mechanical method are required to achieve positive deflection of flexible pipes
to ensure that final deflections are within the specified limits. Hand tamping or punning will only be
permitted where insufficient space is available to allow the use of mechanical plant.

Recesses shall be formed in the bedding to accommodate pipe joints while ensuring continuous even
support along the pipe length. Bedding material shall be prevented form entering pipe joints. After the
joint has been made bedding material shall be carefully placed and hand compacted beneath the joint
barrel to close any void left by the recess.

Where the formation of the trench is of silt or soft clay and is below the natural water table a 75 mm
blinding layer of sand shall be substituted for the specified bedding material directly above formation and
carefully compacted if directed on site.

In narrow trenches and where the Contractor's method of working involves the use of trench sheets or
other forms of trench support it is imperative that the trench supports are carefully withdrawn to a point
above the crown of the pipe as the backfill material is placed to ensure that voids between surround and
trench side will be eliminated. Where the Contractor is instructed to leave trench supports in place, the
tops shall be burned or cut off.

1.07.5 BACKFILLING

The Contractor shall supply soft sand from places permitted by the local authorities, provided that the
Contractor conducts prior analysis with the knowledge of and as directed by the Engineer.

Soft sand shall be obtained from well-drained inland dunes and shall be reasonably free from salts,
refuse, roots, heavy or stiff clay, stones or rocks larger than 3 cm in size, noxious seeds, sticks, brush
litter, debris and other deleterious materials or substances. Soft sand shall be in accordance with the
following:

(a) Chloride content 2% maximum

(b) Sulphate content 2% maximum

Backfilling of pipes will be carried out by filling the dune sand 300mm above the crown of the pipe from
insulation. It is to be leveled, watered and lightly compacted. Before backfilling the level of top of pipe
to be jointly recorded at every 10m interval.

WARNING TAPE (300mm) width and as per specification to be placed over both pipes (supply and
return) at a depth of between 1 & 1.8m maximum from F.G.L.

Warning tape (300mm) with approved thickness, colour, physical and chemical resistance, which is
durable and detectable by electromagnetic means: Its PH value to be between 2.5 to 11.

ELECTRICAL DUCTS uPVC (100/150 mm) Class C , ISO 9000 series- 2 No. or 1 no. as required at
site to be also laid at depth agreed by Engineer surrounded by dune sand along with the warning tape
over it.

Test backfilling to continue as per site requirements.

Once, the dune sand 300mm is laid over the pipes, it is watered and lightly compacted by hand
compactor or blade compactor, to the satisfaction of Engineer. Backfilling can proceed in layers by
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150mm thickness or 250mm as directed before, and necessary tests taken at 20m interval for 250mm
depth along the trench.

UPVC Conduit

Standards

All materials supplied and all works carried out, shall comply in all respects with the requirements of this
specification and such regulations which may in force. Except where modified by this specification,
materials shall be in accordance with BS 4660, BS 5481 & BS EN 1401.

As an alternative to BS Standard indicated above, the Tendereer may quote for materials in accordance
with his National or International Standard shall be clearly indicated by the Tenderer in his offer and one
copy of the National standard in English language shall be attached with the offer.

When BS or National / International Standard are refered to, the edition shall be that current at the date
of Tender, together with any amendment issued to that date. The Tender shall specify when tendering ,
the standards with which his offer complies. UPVC pipes shall be of class ‘C’ and the manufacturer shall
be certified to ISO 9000 series.

Construction

All details, dimensions and instructions shown on any drawings, diagrams and specifications quoted
herein shall be taken as forming part of this specification. The PVC pipes shall be made from Un-
plasticised polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) generally to the requirements of nominal size 100 mm & 150 mm
dia. of BS 3506. The extruded pipe shall be capable of being flattened completely between the plates of
a hydraulic press without cracking or splitting. The pipes shall be corrosion resistant and tough. The
wall thickness of the pipes shall not be less than 3.4 mm for class ‘B’ but not less than 6.6 mm for Class
‘C’.

The external and internal surface of pipes shall be clean, smooth and virtually free from grooves or other
indentations or projections. The smoothness of the internal surface of the pipes shall be such that the
pulling through of the cables in long lengths shall be facilitated without risk of damage to the exterior
surface of the cable.

Each pipe shall have a tapered socket formed at one end. The socket shall be reasonable concentric with
the axis of the pipe. The spigot end of the pipe and the socket shall be sufficiently tight interference fit.

Set of end caps and end puts if included in the scope of supply shall be made of the same material as
shown abov3e for UPVC pipes. The caps are to be used at the spigot end and plugs are to be used at
socket end for sealing of respective UPVC pipes when the pipes are not in use.

Note:- Tenderer shall submit representative samples for the UPVC pipes.

Concrete protection slab if directed by the Engineer to be provided over DC pipes/

UPVC ducts as per approved shop drawing & approved method statement.

Shop drawings for Elecctrical Draw pit ( EDP) & Buried Valve pit ( BVP) be submitted if
required.
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LEVELS

- Before excavation: Levels of existing ground level (EGL or OGL) to be recorded at central line at 5m linear
interval and 10m perpendicularly on either side of the centre line at 2 m interval( might vary as per site
condition-to be agreed by Engineer). All lighting poles or structures to be removed if fouling with the excavation
or near to the excavation to be jointly recorded with existing level & coordinates. Photographs can be taken prior
to start of site work for record purposes.

- Trench excavation: Level of formation level at 10m linear interval to be jointly recorded.

- Sand bed top level at 10m linear interval to be recorded.( Placement of sand bed in trench of 150mm or as
agreed).

- Top of pipe (TOP) level at 10m linear interval for both supply and return after laying, alignment and welding to
be recorded.

- Dune sand top level at 10m linear interval 300mm above pipe top ( crown) to be recorded.( T.O.P)

- Level to receive sub base if required at site to be taken.

- Level of wet mix/road base to be taken.

- Final finished level to be taken.

- Level & alignment of all services crossings to be recorded with coordinates.

End of Section