Accuracy of Pile Load Test
Accuracy of Pile Load Test
(OP)
Our company was asked to monitor and document two axial compression and two axial tensile load tests on auger pressure grouted displacement piles. The two compression piles were fitted w/ strain gages at select locations and all the piles were loaded per quick test method A (no reloading). The piles were not loaded to failure due to the test frame limiting capacity; but were loaded to sufficient capacity to ascertain a minimum embedment depth for the production piles. The strain gages were necessary due to overburden removal that would be required at a later date.
In our report, we stated that the piles were tested in accordance with the quick load methods presented in ASTM 1143 and 3689 and described all of the measurement devices and the details of the pile configuration, grout factors etc. We also included compressive data of the grout, the equipment calibration records etc. for all measurement devices.
Now we have been asked to 'certify the accuracy' of the test results.
It is my opinion that this is a ridiculous request. Can someone please explain to me how I can produce a statement that could 'certify the accuracy' of a load test? Or should I produce a statement at all to this effect?
In our report, we stated that the piles were tested in accordance with the quick load methods presented in ASTM 1143 and 3689 and described all of the measurement devices and the details of the pile configuration, grout factors etc. We also included compressive data of the grout, the equipment calibration records etc. for all measurement devices.
Now we have been asked to 'certify the accuracy' of the test results.
It is my opinion that this is a ridiculous request. Can someone please explain to me how I can produce a statement that could 'certify the accuracy' of a load test? Or should I produce a statement at all to this effect?





RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
Many states frown upon the issuance of separate statements of certification. Check your state law. Certifications are redundant to the engineering licensing process and only serve to increase your liability.
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
www.PeirceEngineering.com
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
You might send a short reply with such a statement, but no mention of accuracy or precision.
The words "ordinary care" seem to have some legal meaning to cover the average situation an engineer runs into.
A quote from another WEB site: "conformity to the reasonable business standards that prevail in a particular area for a particular business"
If you want to get more fussy, you need your lawyer to advise.
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
The original signed report should suffice.
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
www.PeirceEngineering.com
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
This is what I expected to hear.
RE: Accuracy of Pile Load Test
The standard of care for engineers is routinely defined as: "That level of ordinary skill and care used by other competent engineers practicing under the same or similar conditions in the same locale".