Geotechnical report
Geotechnical report
(OP)
I have just started to work as a geotechnical engineer. I realised that I need to boost up my report writing skills and improve it. I appreciate any comments or info that could help me to improve my skills. Is there any good reference that could assist me for a jump?





RE: Geotechnical report
RE: Geotechnical report
For example, I really don't realise that who uses the geological information and what for? Further, I have a background in structure, so when I saw a preliminary structural drawing I understand lots of things so why should I repeat them in the project desciption while the DWG is attached?
RE: Geotechnical report
The structural engineer of course is wondering about bearing capacity and settlement potential.
The excavating contractor is wondering about water table elevation, depth of topsoil, type of soil below, rock elevation and soundness, base course recommendations for paving etc. Also, compaction requirements of the different soils and areas of the project.
The general contractor is also interested in the above, but from a little different perspective, if he doesn't do his own dirtwork. Water table is a big concern, because he will have to provide or subcontract the dewatering to allow the excavator's work.
The developer is wondering about enviornmental questions regarding the site and if special measures (added $$) are required to develop it.
So, there are a lot of people looking at the soils report, each with a different concern that has to be addressed within the report in some form.
RE: Geotechnical report
Also, do a search on geotechnical report guidelines. It seems that there is some info out there on the web that can help.
Mostly it comes from experience. My approach is to visualize what will happen during construction and try to describe any issues that could result from the soil and groundwater conditions. This approach usually requires field work so you have a good idea how construction works. If this isn't part of your job description, I suggest asking your employer to observe some construction projects in process.
RE: Geotechnical report
RE: Geotechnical report
May I know the two companies you mentioned which write good geotechnical reports, if it is not against your privacy? THANKS.
RE: Geotechnical report
RE: Geotechnical report
RE: Geotechnical report
RE: Geotechnical report
Also, those "clauses" and "paragraphs", that you've seen repeated ad nauseam in some of the reports in your office, that often don't seem to bear any meaningful relevance to the job at hand, are probably what have kept your firm still in business. Every geotech report must contain well thought out disclaimers that limit the responsibility of the firm to the job at hand and to the location under consideration, thereby protecting the organization from litigation, etc.