Project Building Plot 224_2016 ARCH., STRUCT.

& CIVIL SPECIFICN

SECTION 03

EARTHWORKS SPECIFICATION

CONTENTS

01.01 SCOPE 2

01.02 STANDARDS 2

01.03 DEFINITIONS - GENERAL 3

01.04 Levels, Reference Points and Setting Out 3

01.05 Descriptions of Soil and Rock 4

01.06 Methods of construction 4

01.07 Solid Rocks 4

01.08 Existing Buried Services 4

01.09 Explosive AND Blasting AND Dangerous Substances 4

01.10 Materials 4

01.11 Testing 9

01.12 WORKMANSHIP 10

01.13 Excavation 13

01.14 Filling 17

01.15 Reinstatement 23

01.16 Geo-grids 24

01.17 Geotechnical Investigation 25

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SECTION 03
EARTHWORKS SPECIFICATION

01.01 SCOPE

This specification deals with requirements for materials and workmanship for excavation and fills, for
general civil Engineering works.

01.02 STANDARDS

The British (BS) and other national and international standards and codes of practice referred to in this
specification are listed below and reference shall be made to the latest edition of these, together with all
current amendments and additions thereto.

BS 812 Methods of sampling and testing of mineral aggregate, sands and fillers.
BS 882 Aggregates from natural sources for concrete.
BS 1047 Specification for air-cooled blast furnace purposes.
BS 1377 Methods of tests for soils for civil Engineering services.
BS 1485 Specification for zinc coated hexagonal steel wire netting. BS 3882 Recommendations and
classification for top soil.
BS 3936 Specification for trees and shrubs.
BS 3969 Recommendations for turf for general landscape purposes. BS 3998 Recommendations for
tree work.
BS 4043 Recommendations for transplanting semi-mature trees.
BS 4987 Coated macadam, roads and other paved areas.
BS 5236 Recommendation for cultivating and planting trees in the extra large nursery stock category.
BS 5607 Code of practice for use of explosives in the construction industry.
BS 5837 Code of practice for trees in relation to construction.
BS 5930 Code of practice for site investigation.
BS 6031 Code of practice for earthworks.
BS 6164 Code of practice for safety in tunnelling in the construction industry.
BS 6656 Guide for prevention of inadvertent ignition of flammable atmosphere by radio-frequency
radiation.
BS 6657 Guide for prevention of inadvertent initiation of electroexplosive devices by radio frequency
radiation.
BS 8004 Code of practice for foundations.
BS 8110 Structural use of concrete

01.03 DEFINITIONS - GENERAL

For the purpose of the specification the definitions given in the British Standards listed above, as
appropriate, shall apply. The following additional definitions shall also apply:

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Cohesive soil A soil which contains silt and clay, and which form a coherent mass.

Excavation A hole in the ground (including trenches, cuttings, headings, shafts

and pits).

Formation or formation Level The finished level in the ground in excavation or as fill prepared in
the final shape after permanent work such as concrete, paving which
includes capping layer.

Grading of granular material A uniformly graded material for the purpose this specification is
defined having a uniformity coefficient of 2 or less. A well graded
material for the purpose of this specification is defined as having a
uniformity coefficient of 10 or greater (uniformity coefficient =
D60/D10).

Granular Material A graded material with less than 5 percent passing 63 microns.

Ground Ground shall include all materials, natural and artificial, below the
present land surface.

Heading An underground passage temporarily supported by timber or other

material.

Non-cohesive soil A granular soil which will not form a coherent mass.

Services Any pipe, cable or the like together with associated chambers,
valves, protective ducts and tiles, nylons, etc.

Sub-formation The layer 150 mm below formation level.

01.04 Levels, Reference Points and Setting Out

The works are to be set out from primary datum level(s) and setting-out point(s) indicated on the drawings
from information provided by the Engineer. The Contractor shall submit his proposals, for setting out and
controlling the alignment of the works, to the Engineer and obtain his approval prior to the start details of
the value and location of all temporary benchmarks and reference points which he establishes.

Should the Contractor dispute the original ground levels shown on the drawings he shall agree these with
the Engineer before disturbing the original ground.

01.05 Descriptions of Soil and Rock

Descriptions of soils and rocks shall comply with the requirements of BS 5930 or otherwise agreed with
the Engineer. The criteria which are to be used to distinguish between various types of soil, soft rock and
hard rock will be agreed between the Contractor and the Engineer on site.

01.06 Methods of construction

Prior to the commencement of the work the Contractor shall submit to the Engineer his detailed proposals
for methods of construction (including temporary works and construction plant) for all earthworks. The
detailed proposals shall include but not limited to the numbers and types of plant, routings and expected

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outputs, locations of soil heaps, installation and removal of temporary works, attendance and supervision,
and controls to ensure quality assurance and safety.

01.07 Solid Rocks

Solid rock shall mean rock found in ledges or masses, greater than 0.3 m3 in volume in it’s original
position, which has to be loosened either by hydraulic breaker, by pneumatic tools or, if excavated by
hand, by wedges and sledge hammers.

01.08 Existing Buried Services

The location and extent of existing services buried indicated in the drawings or otherwise is not
guaranteed. Unless otherwise noted on the drawings all existing services must be maintained. Prior to the
commencement of works the Contractor shall submit to the Engineer for approval his detailed proposals to
ensure continued functioning of all existing services without any hindrance. All existing services is to be
recorded and details submitted to the Engineer.

01.09 Explosive AND Blasting AND Dangerous Substances

Explosives shall not be used nor shall the be brought to site, other than with the written permission of all
concerned Authorities including Royal Oman Police and only after completing all requirements.

01.10 Materials

01.10.01 Approval of Materials

All materials, supplier and sources must be approved in writing by the Engineer and Employer prior to their
use in works. Prior to approval being given all or any of the following as required by Engineer must be
complied with:

a) Provision of material sample to site and subsequent testing of the sample for compliance with the
specification of the British Standards. Testing to be carried out by a laboratory in accordance with
specification.
b) Site inspection at up to three location where the material has been used over the past 5 years.
c) Provision of test data for material produced at the suppliers source over the previous 6 months.
d) Work inspection.

01.10.02 Storage of Materials

Materials shall be handled in such a manner as to preserve their quality and condition for subsequent use
in the works.

01.10.03 Handling and Use of Materials

Materials shall be handled in such a manner as to avoid any damage, deterioration or contamination.

01.10.04 General Earthworks: Acceptable and Unacceptable Materials

The following classification relates to all material used in earthworks. Material according to its purpose
shall be structural or non-structural., the definitions for which are give below.

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01.10.05 Structural Material

Material which gives support to other parts of the works and/or has to meet specific requirements for
strength and stability. Material for this purpose shall be acceptable material as classified.

01.10.06 Non-Structural Material

Material for all other purposes as shown on the drawings or otherwise specified. Material for these
purposes shall be acceptable as defined.

01.10.07 Acceptable Material

1. Structural Material

a) Material which is acceptable for retention in formation use in fill and/or for re-use after excavation,
and which excludes the materials classified in clause 10.08.
b) Material which is temporarily unacceptable for retention in formation, use in fill and/or for re-use
after excavation due to be either too higher or low moisture content and which by appropriate
conditioning can be made acceptable, and which excludes the materials classified as in sub
clause 10.08 except as noted above.
c) Acceptable materials may range from clay to granular materials (such as sands and gravels, and
crushed rocks) and mixtures thereof, they may also include shale, calcareous clays. Granular
materials, other than hardcore and rock fill , shall be well graded and of maximum size up to
100mm or not greater than one third the compacted thickness, whichever is less. Acceptable
materials shall be such as to attain the required performance, and fulfil the criteria set out on the
drawings and this specification.

2. Non-structural Fill

As for structural fill excepting the size limitations for granular material may be increased as agreed by the
Engineer.

01.10.08 Unacceptable Material

Unacceptable material is that material which is unacceptable for its purpose for use in fill or retention in
excavation as part of the formation and/or for re-use after excavation and which is classified as follows:

a) From swamps, marshes or bogs.

b) Organic soils including topsoil.
c) Peat, stumps or perishable materials.
d) Susceptible to spontaneous combustion.
e) Soil of liquid limit exceeding 90 percent and/or plasticity index exceeding 65 percent.
f) Material not conforming to the specified limits of particle size distribution (grading).
g) When compacted having an air voids content, moisture content, compacted by density, moisture
condition value or any combinations of these outside the permitted limits other than that
described in clause 10.07.
h) Material having hazardous and/or objectionable chemical and/or physical properties.
i) Other prescribed material described in the contact or as defined by the Engineer.

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01.10.09 Topsoil

Topsoil shall mean the top layer of soil that can support vegetation, and may include turf. Topsoil for re-
use shall be from the top humus bearing horizons of the soil, free from chemical or other pollutants, pests,
unwanted weeds, roots and rubbish. Imported topsoil shall comply with the requirements stated in the
specification for soft landscape.

01.10.10 Selected Backfill Material for Structures, Foundation Pits and Service Trenches

Selected acceptable backfill material shall be classified into four types as follows and placed in the
locations indicated on the drawings or as directed by the Engineer

Type 1: Shall be subsoil, free of unacceptable material, and shall have an upper limit of moisture
content and/or compacted density within the limits specified.

Type 2: Shall be well graded, mainly granular material not larger than 75mm not with more than 10%
passing 75 microns with a plasticity index greater than 6% when tested in accordance with BS
1377.

Type 3: Shall be well graded, mainly granular material not larger than 75mm not with more than 10%
passing 75 microns with a non-plastic index when tested in accordance with BS 1377.

Type 4: Shall be free-draining in accordance with clause 10.11

Any fill material used within 1000mm of concrete structures or cement bound materials shall not have a
water soluble sulphate content exceeding 1.9 g/1 as S03 in a 2:1 water to soil extract (class 2 of table 6.1
of BS 8110: Part 1).

01.10.11 Free-draining Material

Free-draining materials shall comply with the following.

Material passing 425 microns shall be non-plastic when tested in accordance with BS 1377. The
aggregate crushing value shall not exceed 30% in accordance with BS 812. The materials shall not have a
soluble sulphate content exceeding 1.9 g/1 as S03 in a 2:1 water to soil extract (class 2 of table 6.1 of BS
8110: Part 1).

Material on analysis by wet sieving, in accordance with BS 1377, shall comply with the requirements in the
table below:

PARTICLE SIZE DISTURBUTION

FOR FREE-DRAINING MATERIAL

BS Sieve Size Percentage by Mass Passing

75 mm 100
10 mm 45-100
5 mm 30-85
600 microns 0-35
150 microns 0-5

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75 microns 0-2

01.10.12 Granular Fill

Granular fill shall be of granular crushed rock of maximum size 75 mm or 20 mm down as may be shown
on the drawings or as otherwise specified. It shall be well graded with not greater than 5% passing 65
microns unless otherwise specified.

01.10.13 Granular Pipe-bedding Materials

Granular material for bedding and filling around pipelines shall comply with table 4 of BS 882 and unless
otherwise shown on the drawings shall be as follows:

 10 mm nominal single sized for pipes with a nominal bore exceeding 110 mm but not exceeding
200 mm.
 10 mm or 14 mm nominal single size for pipes with nominal bore exceeding 110 mm but not
exceeding 200 mm.
 10 mm, 14 mm nominal single sized for pipes with a nominal bore exceeding 200 mm but not
exceeding 525 mm.
 14 mm, 20 mm or 40 mm nominal single size for pipes with a nominal bore exceeding 525 mm.

A material with a compaction fraction value greater than 0.15 shall not be used. The compaction fraction
value shall be determined as follows.

1. For testing pipe bedding material, a representative sample of about 40 to 50 kg shall be heaped
onto a clean surface and quartered to obtain approximately 10 kg. The moisture content of the
sample should not differ materially from that of the main of material at the time of use in the
trench.
2. A 150 mm internal diameter open ended cylinder, 250 mm high, shall be placed on a firm flat
surface and loosely filled, without tamping, from the 10 kg sample. Any surplus material shall be
struck of level with the top of the cylinder. The area around the filled cylinder shall be cleared of
all surplus material and the cylinder than lifted clear of its contents and placed on a fresh area of
surface.
3. Approximately one quarter of the content then be placed in the cylinder and compacted by
tamping vigorously with a 40 mm diameter metal rammer weighing 1 kg until no further
compaction can be obtained. This operation then shall be repeated for each of the remaining
quarters, tamping the final surface as level as possible.
4. The distance from the top of the cylinder to the surface of the final layer shall then be measured
and this value, divided by the height of the cylinder, shall be taken as the COMPACTION
FRACTION.

01.10.14 Hardcore

Hardcore shall be good clean hard brick, concrete, hard stone, coarse gravel, sound slag or other
approved material free from dust and foreign matter. The maximum size of such materials free from dust
and foreign matter. The maximum size of such materials shall not exceed two thirds of thickness of the
compacted layer and shall be graded so that when compacted the layer is uniformity dense and the
surface is closed.

Hardcore shall not be susceptible to break down under moist conditions. It shall contain not more than
0.5% total sulphate as S03 and not more than 1.9 g/1 water soluble sulphates as So3 in a 2:1 water to soil
to extract (class 2 of table 6.1 of BS 8110: Part 1).

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01.10.15 Rock fill

Rock fill shall consist of hard durable inert natural material of suitable size of deposition and compaction.
The maximum size of such materials shall not exceed two-thirds of thickness of the compacted layer and
shall be graded so that when compacted the layer is uniformly dense and the surface closed.

01.10.16 Fill Material for Deposition Below Standing Water

Fill material for deposition below standing water shall be a granular material with a 10% fines value of not
less than 50 KN as tested in accordance with BS 812: Part 3 (method 8) except that samples shall be
soaked in water at room temperature for 48 hours prior to resting without previously having been over
dried. The material shall have a maximum particle size not greater than 200mm and shall have a particle
size distribution complying with the table below:

PARTICLE SIZE DISTURBUTION FOR FILL MATERIAL FOR

DEPOSITION BELOW STANDING WATER
BS Sieve Size Percentage by Mass Passing
75 mm 0-100
37.5 mm 0-100
6.3 mm 0-100
3.35 mm 0-35
2.36 mm 0-10
600 microns 0-2

01.10.17 Fill Deposition on Soft Ground

Fill material for deposition on soft ground shall be granular material with a 10% fines value of not less than
50 KN as tested in accordance with BS 812: Part 3 (method 8), except that samples shall be soaked in
water at room temperature for 48 hours prior to testing without previously having been over dried. The
material shall consist of granular material graded from 200 mm to 150 mm, except that not more than 10%
shall be less than 150 mm size. For treatment of small volumes of soft ground the Engineer may require
the size range to be reduced to such sizes as he may direct.

01.11 Testing

01.11.01 Fully Equipped Laboratory

Except as noted below the Contractor shall prior to commencement of works provide and maintain in good
order, throughout the duration of the contract, a fully equipped laboratory capable of performing all the
tests necessary to confirm that the workmanship and materials are in accordance with this specification.
Test equipment shall include for carrying out the following tests:

a. Mechanical analysis (particle size distribution) including fines analysis using sedimentation and
full pre-treatment, all in accordance with tests 7A, 7D and 8 of BS 1377; additional to the sieves
listed in test 7A, sieving shall also include for 75 microns aperture.
b. Moisture determination in accordance with test 1 of BS 1377.
c. Liquid limit in accordance with test 2A and plastic limit in accordance with test 3 of BS 1377.
d. Determination of dry density/moisture content relationship in accordance with tests 12, 13 and 14
of BS 1377.

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e. Determination of dry density in situ by sand replacement and by core-cutter in accordance with
test 15 of BS 1377.
f. Determination of compaction fraction value for testing pipe bedding material.
g. Determination of shear strength by hand vane apparatus.
h. All other tests as required in the specification and British Standards.

Where it is agreed with the Engineer, and the extent of earthworks is small an independent laboratory may
be used to carry out all necessary testing. The Contractor shall provide all necessary containers, plant,
transport and labour for obtaining and handling of samples.

01.11.02 Testing Personnel

The Contractor shall provide all necessary staff for testing including a suitably qualified laboratory
supervisor, who will be subject to the Engineer’s written approval. Where an independent laboratory is
used the same applies to that laboratory staff.

01.11.03 Frequency of Testing and Representation at Test

The frequency of testing which is to be carried out shall be as specified but not less than one set of tests a
day or part thereof, when the relevant works are in progress. The Engineer shall be notified when tests are
to be undertaken. The Contractor shall supply the Engineer with full reports (two copies) and two copies of
test results together with laboratory test worksheets within 24 hours of carrying out such tests.

01.11.04 Trial Pits

03.
11.
Trial
04 pits may be required by the Engineer to determine the nature of the sub soils and allowable bearing
pressure. These shall be at the expense of the Contractor.

01.12 WORKMANSHIP

01.12.01 Settlement and Heave Allowance

In the setting-out and execution of excavations and filled areas the Contractor shall allow for settlement,
heave and lateral spreading of embankments whether caused by consolidation of fill, settlement of
foundation, heave in excavations or change in volume of materials after excavation or any other cause.

01.12.02 Tolerance Limits

The tolerance limits for the permanent finished earthworks shall be as follows:

a. Horizontal dimensions shall be within +/- 75 mm of the dimensions shown on the drawings.
b. For slopes to embankments or cuttings the horizontal deviation between the top and the bottom
of the slope shall be +/-5% of the horizontal component of the slopes shown on or calculated
from the drawings, but shall not exceed the values in paragraph (a) above.
c. Formation levels shall be from zero and -25 mm of the levels shown on the drawings.
d. Other earthworks levels shall be within 0 and -75 mm of the levels shown on the drawings.
e. All finished surfaces shall have the correct cambers and/or falls for drainage.

01.12.03 Moisture Content and Acceptability of Site Materials

The moisture content and acceptability of material arising within the site shall be determined in its
unexcavated state.

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01.12.04 Handling and Conditioning of Materials

The Contractor shall employ plant and methods of working which:

a. Maintain acceptable material in a suitable condition for use and/or re-use in the works.
b. Condition temporarily unacceptable material as defined in clause 10.07 to an acceptable material
for use and/or re-use in the works.

01.12.05 Unstable Ground

Should for any reason whatsoever the ground becomes unstable the Contractor shall inform the Engineer
immediately and shall submit for the Engineers approval proposals for dealing with the unstable ground. If
necessary the Contractor shall proceed with the work by day and night without intermission and to the
extent required by the Engineer. Records of all labour, plant and material involved, including pumping,
shall be agreed with Engineer as work proceeds.

01.12.06 Adverse Conditions

The Contractor shall not carry out any excavation or placing of fill materials when conditions are such that
the works or other works would be adversely affected. Once any operation has been stopped, owing to
adverse weather or other conditions, it shall not be re-started without approval of the Engineer.

The Contractor shall plan his operations so as to take account of the season and to take full advantage of
favourable climatic conditions.

Additionally, the Contractor’s temporary drainage of the works shall take these factors into account.

The Contractor shall seek the Engineer’s approval to any changes in his method of working that are
necessary to ensure full compliance with this requirement before the changes are implemented.

01.12.07 Borrow Areas

Where the contract requires the forming of borrow areas on the site, these shall be located and the work
executed to the approval of the Engineer.

Where borrow materials are located in the ‘dry’, these shall be so worked as to keep the area properly
shaped and drained and free of water to maintain the soil in good condition for use in fill.

The slope of borrow areas/pits shall be maintained at safe values of slope and the Contractor shall satisfy
the Engineer by testing and calculation, as appropriate, as to their stability.

01.12.08 Temporary Earthworks; Stockpiles, and subsoil and Topsoil Heaps

The Contractor shall make his own arrangements for stockpiles and for provision of storage area for soil,
turf and topsoil but shall submit proposals for these, and other temporary earthworks, for the approval of
the Engineer.

Such works shall be stable under all conditions and shall not impede the natural drainage of the area in
which it may be situated. The Contractor shall satisfy the Engineer by testing and calculation as
appropriate as to their stability. The requirements of codes shall apply.

Fill materials shall not be stockpiled in the vicinity of excavation nor shall they be stockpiled on
embankments.

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01.12.09 Earthworks to be Kept Free of Water

The Contractor shall arrange for the rapid disposal of water as required from whatever source on all
earthworks or completed formations of all types during construction. In depressions, pumping shall be
used as necessary to keep them free of water.

01.12.10 Work Alongside Adjoining Property

Before carrying out excavations or associated works, including pumping or ground water lowering,
alongside adjacent properties the Contractor shall survey such properties and record their levels and
structural condition, take particular notes of any cracks, other damage or deformations. The survey shall
include a photographic record.

The Contractor shall supply the Engineer with a copy of all such survey records (including photographs).
All such records shall be adequately referenced as to location, direction of view, date, etc.

Before commencing work alongside adjoining property, the Contractor shall submit to the Engineer his
detailed proposals for carrying out the work including diagrams of his proposed methods of support
together with his calculations and estimates of vertical and lateral movements and his means of keeping
the works free of water if applicable.

01.12.11 Change of Groundwater Levels due to pumping

In pumping out excavation or any other operation, such as groundwater lowering, which could vary the
groundwater levels or affect in any way the permanent works and/or nearby properties, the Contractor
shall ensure the stability and, in particular, prevent or minimize the settlement of such permanent works
and/or nearby properties.

The Contractor shall take all necessary precautions to prevent any adjacent ground from being adversely
affected by loss of fines through any de-watering process.

01.12.12 Protection of Earthworks

Protection of all works covered by this specification shall be provided by the Contractor, by methods
approved by the Engineer, until the works are certified complete the Engineer.

01.12.13 Landslips

The Contractor shall notify the Engineer immediately of any landslips, and then shall deal with this without
delay and as the Engineer may direct. If any slip falls or disturbs or weakens any foundation, support or
potential support the Contractor shall execute such additional work immediately as the Engineer may
direct.

01.12.14 Running Lavers and Access Routes (Haul Roads)

Where the Contractors proposal include running over the location of the permanent works he shall provide,
above the formation levels shown on the drawings, a suitable layer of 300 mm minimum depth above
formation levels for the movements and operation of plant, materials and labour associated with his works
so that material at formation level or below is not adversely affected. Prior to commencement of work the
Contractor shall submit to the Engineer for his approvals for haul roads.

During the excavation of the works the Contractor shall maintain the running layer to the satisfaction of the
Engineer. The running layer shall be removed in a manner which does not adversely disturb the previous
construction or interfere with subsequent operations for the permanent works.

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01.13 Excavation

01.13.01 General

1. The Contractor shall record the data through which he excavates together with their
locations and depths. He shall supply a copy of the records to the Engineer as the work
proceeds.

2. Where excavation produces a combination of acceptable and unacceptable materials, the

Contractor shall carry out the excavation in such a manner that acceptable materials are
excavated separately for use in the works without contamination by unacceptable
materials which shall be removed off site. Where excavation produces a combination of
acceptable materials with different characteristics, these materials shall be excavated and
stored separately.

3. Any old foundations, tree roots, buried refuse or obstructions encountered during the
course of excavation shall be taken out and removed from the site except combustible
materials which shall either with the Engineer’s approval, removed from the site. Care
shall be taken to ensure that roots of existing trees to be retained are not disturbed.

4. Should an unforeseen service or services be encountered the Engineer shall be notified

immediately and no actions taken till instructions. When instructed by the Engineer
disused drains shall be traced and sealed either with grade CIO concrete or other
approved material unless otherwise directed by the Engineer.

5. When rock is encountered the Engineer shall be notified immediately and it shall be
removed only to the net extent to permit the works to be properly executed. The
Contractor shall free the faces and bottoms of the excavations of loose material which
can be moved with a crowbar. For excavations in which concrete is to be placed the
resulting cavities and any large fissures shall be filled with grade CIO concrete. For
trenches filling shall be as shown on the drawings and as directed by the Engineer. The
quantities of materials shall be measured and agreed as work proceeds and prior to
removal.

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6. Rock projections, boulders or other hard spots in excavations shall be removed to a depth
not less than 100 mm below formation level and as directed by the Engineer and a new
formation prepared and the excavation filled as specified. The quantities of these
materials shall be measured and agreed as work proceeds and prior to removal.

7. Excavation in error or for any other reason by the Contractor to a greater extent than is
indicated on the drawings shall be made good with approved material deposited and
compacted as specified or, if instructed by the Engineer, with grade CIO concrete.

8. The Contractor shall carry out his operations in such a manner as to ensure that damage
or deterioration of the formation or final surface of the excavation and the ground below
the formation shall be preserved.

9. If the Contractor encounters ground in the formation which he considers unacceptable,

the Engineer shall be informed immediately.

10. On completion of the excavation the formation shall be nearly finished leaving no
extraneous material. The permanent work shall be placed immediately or the formation
sealed to the approval of the Engineer after the formation has been inspected and
approved by the Engineer. The Contractor shall give adequate notice to enable this to be
done.

11. Excavations shall be kept free from noxious or explosive gases, whether generated in
strata by blasting or otherwise. The Contractor shall satisfy himself that each excavation
is safe before allowing entry.

The Contractor shall carry out tests for the presence of noxious or explosive gases, or
detect a lack of oxygen before allowing personnel to enter any confined space or
excavation, and he shall then monitor condition continuously during the period of work.
He shall take such measures (e.g. ventilation, the provision of breathing apparatus, and
back-up personnel and equipment) as will avoid any risk or injury to personnel. The
Engineer may order the withdrawal of personnel if dissatisfied with the Contractor’s
arrangements.

01.13.02 Forming of cuttings

1. Cuttings shall be excavated to the lines and levels shown on the drawings or as directed
by the Engineer.

2. Toes to the slopes of the cuttings shall be undercut only where permanent works
necessitate excavation(s). Such excavations shall be restricted in extent and shall remain
only for minimum period necessary. The Contractor shall submit to the Engineer for
approval a method statement giving his procedure for carrying out such work.

3. Where for reasons of programme the excavation cannot immediately be completed,

sealed and the permanent works placed, excavation shall be restricted such that at least
300 mm of material is left above formation layer as a protective layer, the extent of further
protection to be provided in each case shall be dependent on the situation and material
involved. Trafficking shall only be to the approval of the Engineer.

01.13.03 Dressing of Formation and Side Slopes of Rock Encountered in Cuttings

1. Where rock is encountered in cuttings, the side slopes shall be cut to the lines, levels and
slopes shown on the drawings or as directed by the Engineer.

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2. Surface irregularities remaining on the base of an excavation after completion of rock

excavation shall be corrected to formation level by filling with approved granular material.
Such material shall have a maximum size not greater than one third the thickness to be
compacted and not exceeding one third the maximum allowable compacted layer
thickness, whichever is lower. The formation so constructed shall be formed to lines and
levels shown on the drawings.

3. The sloping sides of all permanent cuttings shall be scaled off all rock fragments which
are loose or can be prized with a crowbar.

01.13.04 Excavations for Structures and Foundations

Excavations shall be to the lines and levels shown on the drawings.

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1. The side of excavation for structures such as basements and foundations shall be
adequately supported at all times and, except where required as shown on the drawings
or allowed by the Engineer, shall not be battered. The Contractor shall submit to the
Engineer his proposals for his temporary work to ensure stability of the excavation,
permanent and temporary works, and these proposals shall include detailed drawings
and calculations, methods of installation and withdrawal and his means of keeping the
works free of water.

The Contractor’s attention is drawn to the possibility of bottom heave occurring in deep
excavations and in his proposals he shall have considered the stability of the excavation
against bottom heave.

2. For excavation in soils such as over consolidated clays which are likely to heave and
swell, the Contractor shall submit to the Engineer for his prior approval a detailed method
statement giving his procedure and proposed arrangements for minimizing the effects of
heave and swelling.

3. Where for reasons of programme the excavation cannot immediately be completed,

sealed and the permanent works placed, excavation shall be restricted such that at least
300 mm of material is left above formation layer as a protective layer, the extent of further
protection to be provided in each case shall be dependent on the situation and material
involved. Trafficking shall only be to the approval of the Engineer.

4. When constructing structures and having adjacent services, the construction or service
requiring the deepest excavation shall be excavated first and construction brought to a
safe level before starting further excavation. When this is impractical the Contractor shall
obtain approval of the Engineer for his proposals for maintaining undisturbed ground
supporting the higher construction while excavating, constructing and filling around and/or
over the lower one.

5. Where blinding concrete is placed in the bottom of an excavation no trimming of side

faces shall be carried out until a period of 24 hours has elapsed.

6. Should ground be excavated in error or otherwise disturbed wider or deeper than is

required all disturbed material shall be removed, and the excess excavation shall be
backfilled and/or otherwise dealt with as directed by the Engineer.

01.13.05 Providing Formation in Excavation and dealing with Soft or Unsoud Spots

1. Formation in excavation shall be proof rolled or compacted by 1 pass of a smooth

wheeled roller having a mass per meter width of roll not less than 2100 kg unless
otherwise specified and expecting section 3 of clause 13.04.

2. Any soft or unsound spots as may be found, by inspection, testing, proof rolling or
compaction or otherwise as may be specified., in the formation or under areas to be filled,
shall be excavated as required by the specification and instructed by the Engineer. The
resultant excavation shall be backfilled with approved material deposited and compacted
as specified for the forming of filled areas or, if instructed by the Engineer, with grade C10
concrete.

However, the Contractor’s attention is drawn to the possibility that instability or an

apparent soft spot may be due to a pore pressure rise as a result of compaction forces. In
such circumstances the Engineer shall be informed and in agreement with the Engineer
the pore pressure may be allowed to dissipate before deciding on the removal or
otherwise of such an area.

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3. An alternative method of treatment using approved rock fill material, in accordance with
clause 10.17, may be permitted or required by the Engineer. If so it shall be placed
directly on the naturally occurring soft soil and compacted to such total depth that on
completion of compaction negligible deflection of the surface occurs by the passage of
vehicles hauling in the rock. The rock fill material shall be deposited and compacted as
specified in clause 14.06.

4. Where the formation in excavation is of essentially granular material it shall, following

inspection, testing and/or proof rolling or compaction, be compacted in accordance with
clause 14.04 unless otherwise specified. Where the information is cohesive nature
compaction or otherwise shall be related to its nature and natural condition, and following
inspection and testing the Contractor shall submit his proposals for treatment for the
Engineer.

01.13.06 Excavation of Trenches and Pits for Services

1. The sides of trenches and pits shall be adequately supported at all times and, except
where shown on the drawings, shall not be battered. Trenching practice and support shall
follow the recommendations of CIRIA Report in 97 in so far applicable.

2. Trenches for drains and sewers shall be excavated to an even gradient between
manholes and to depth required by the drawings. Trenches for other services shall be
excavated to give the specified cover. Allowance shall be made for bedding where
required.

3. Unless otherwise shown on the drawings, trenches for pipelines and conduits shall not
exceed the width given in the table below. If the specified width is exceeded the
Contractor shall notify the Engineer immediately to enable him to check the design. If
battering of the sides is allowed by the Engineer then the depth of batter shall not extend
lower than 300 mm above the crown of the pipe.

Internal diameter Maximum Trench Width

of pipes Rigid Pipes Flexible Pipes
Not exceeding 300 mm
700 mm Outside diameter Plus 300 mm
nominal
Over 300 mm and less Outside diameter Outside diameter
than 840 mm nominal Plus 400 mm Plus 400 mm
840 mm nominal Outside diameter Outside diameter
And over Plus 600 mm Plus 300 mm

Note: Where trench supports may be necessary all widths may be increased by 150 mm.

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4. Trenches for any pipe carrying water under pressure shall, except where otherwise
required under the contract, be excavated to sufficient depth to ensure a minimum cover
of 900 mm to the top of the pipe after completion of backfilling.

5. Trenches and pits shall be kept free of water in accordance with Clause 12.09.

6. Where trench formation for pipelines and conduits is in finegrained soils such a soft clays,
silts or fine sands and a granular pipe bedding is to be placed, a pervious membrane
shall be laid on the formation prior to placing the bedding. This shall be done immediately
after formation has been approved.

7. Rock projections, boulders or other hard spots in trenches for pipelines and conduits shall
be removed to a depth not less than 100 mm below formation level or as directed by the
Engineer and a new formation prepared and the excavation filled as directed by the
Engineer. The quantity of this material shall be measured and agreed as the work
proceeds prior to removal.

8. Any pockets or soft loose soil in the bottom of trenches shall be removed as directed by
the Engineer. The resultant excavation shall be fdled with an approved material,
deposited and compacted as specified for the forming of filled areas or, if instructed by
the Engineer by grade CIO concrete. Any pockets of rock shall be removed and the
resulting cavities and any large fissures shall be filled with grade CIO concrete. The
quantities of the materials used shall be measured and agreed as work proceeds.

9. Unless shown otherwise on the drawings, pipes and conduits shall not be laid in fill unless
the fill has been compacted to a level that provides at least 500 mm cover along the line
of the pipe before the trench is excavated. Where pipes and conduits are to be laid in
undisturbed ground with less cover than 500 mm and over which fill is to be placed later,
sufficient fill shall first be placed and compacted completely along the lines of the pipes or
conduits to provide at least 500 mm cover before the trench is excavated.

10. Where blinding concrete is placed in the bottom of a trench or pit no trimming of sides
faces shall be carried out till a period of 24 hours has elapsed.

01.14 Filling

01.14.01 Forming of Embankments and other areas of Fill

1. Embankments and other areas of fill shall be formed of acceptable material as shown on
the drawings and/or as specified by the Engineer.

2. Haulage of material to areas of filling shall proceed only when sufficient spreading and
compaction plant is operating at the place of deposition.

3. Areas to be filled shall be cleared off topsoil, rubbish, scrap material and standing water
(unless shown otherwise in the drawings) when fill is placed. No filing shall be placed on
a surface that has been damaged or not cleaned of debris and without approval of the
Engineer.

4. All earthworks placed in or below embankments and other areas of fill such as backfill to
trenches, pits and structures such as retaining walls and basements, or as soon as
practicable after excavation in, in layers of thickness appropriate to the compaction plant
used but not exceeding 150 mm after compaction or as permitted in the appropriate
clause or otherwise specified or as agreed with the Engineer.

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5. If there is a defect in the “cut-fill” balance of acceptable material from excavations the
deficiency shall be made good by importation of acceptable material. In this case the
Contractor shall propose a source or sources of such material for the Engineer’s approval
(refer to clause 10.01).

6. Where materials of different characteristics are available those of relatively higher bearing
capacity shall be placed in the topmost 600 mm below formation level

7. Non-cohesive fill shall not be included within cohesive fill.

8. Where cohesive material, as excavated, cannot be compacted or conditioned to

acceptability for compaction it shall, unless otherwise permitted or directed by the
Engineer, be disposed of to the satisfaction of the Engineer.

9. Where non-cohesive material, on excavation, is too wet or too dry for satisfactory
compaction the Contractor shall raise or lower the moisture content until satisfactory
compaction can be achieved.

10. Where for any reason the moisture content of acceptable material changes to value
unacceptable for compaction, the Contractor shall raise or lower the moisture content
until satisfactory compaction can be achieved.

11. Areas of general fill and embankments shall be built up evenly over the full width, and
with side slopes not greater at any time than shown on the drawings or directed by the
Engineer. Areas of fill shall be kept free of water. During construction of areas of general
fill and embankment the Contractor shall control and direct construction traffic uniformly
over their full width. Damage to compacted layers by constructional traffic shall be made
good by the Contractor.

12. In carrying embankments up to or over culverts, pipes drains or other services, and where
required in the contract, up to over bridges, the Contractor shall bring the embankments
up equally on both sides. Where special forms of compaction, adjacent to structures are
described in the contract, fillings may proceed less than the full width of the embankment
and in steps not exceeding the depth of one layer above the adjoining area of fill.

13. If the Contractor wishes to use the surface of the embankments for constructional plant
before trimming to formation level the requirements of Clause 12.15 continue to apply.
Additionally, he shall bring up and maintain the area between the extremities of any
carriageway, including any central reserve and hard shoulder to a level not less than 150
mm above the formation level. The extent of the protection to be provided in each case
shall be adjusted to suit the situation and materials involved whereupon constructional
plant will be allowed to use the surface so formed but any damage to sub-formation or
sub grade caused by the use of such surface shall be made good by the Contractor. On
compaction of sub-formation to formation level, the movement and use of constructional
plant shall be only as permitted by the Engineer.

14. Material used for haul roads or running layers shall not be reused without the permission
of the Engineer.

01.14.02 Backfilling of Trenches and Fills

1. Bedding and surrounding to pipes shall be in accordance with the drawings, details and
relevant specification. This shall be placed to the bottom level of the main fill as shown on
the drawings.

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2. The main backfill shall be selected material as shown on the drawings or approved by the
Engineer.

3. The first 300 mm of main backfill shall be placed in layers not exceeding 200 mm
incompact thickness with each layer being thoroughly compacted before placing the next
layer. Only light compaction equipment subject to the approval of the Engineer shall be
used. Otherwise mechanical rammers, rollers and the like shall not be used to compact
the fill until there is a minimum 600 mm of fill above the top of the pipes.

4. The main backfill shall then be built up in layers not exceeding 150 mm in compacted
thickness. Compaction shall be according to Clausel4.04.

5. As filling proceeds all trenches or pit supports shall be removed in a safe manner and in
accordance with the approved method of working (refer to sub clauses 12.04 and 13.06).

6. Particularly under roads or existing upper works such as pipes, the fill shall be compacted
to bring it as nearly as possible to the same condition of density and moisture content as
that of the undisturbed soil in the trench or pit sides provided the fill is of a similar nature,
otherwise a selected material approved by the Engineer shall be used.

7. Unless otherwise specified, filling around manholes shall be as for trenches and shall be
carried out as part of the same operation. The fill shall be raised equally all around the
manhole shaft.

8. Any settlement that occurs shall be made good by the Contractor with the surface
construction also being maintained in an acceptable condition.

01.14.03 Filling Against Structures

1. Fill to structures shall be selected material as shown on the drawings or approved by the
Engineer.

2. Fill shall be placed and compacted in accordance with Clause 14 accepting as otherwise
specified in this sub clause.

3. Where fill to structures is required to a similar level on more than one side of structural
element. It shall be so placed that the difference in level of compacted filling against
adjacent or opposite sides does not exceed 250 mm, unless otherwise specified by the
Engineer.

4. Compaction plant used on fill within 2 m of a structure shall be restricted to:

a. Vibratory roller having a mass meter width of roll not exceeding 2300 kg with a total mass not
exceeding 2000 kg.
b. Vibrating plate compactor having a mass not exceeding 1000 kg, or
c. Vibratory-tamper having a mass not exceeding 75 kg.

Fill within this zone shall not differ in level during construction from the level of the remainder of the
adjoining fill to the structure by more than 250 mm.

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01.14.04 Compaction of Earthworks

01.14.04.1 Structural Fill

1. All filling material shall be compacted to obtain a degree of a compaction not less than
that specified or shown on the drawing or specified elsewhere. Where compaction
requirements have not been specified fill shall be compacted to a minimum of 95% of the
maximum dry density in accordance with test 13 of BS 1377 (heavy proctor test).
Moisture content shall be adjusted as necessary to achieve this including all handling as
required.

2. Before filling and compaction works are commenced, and further as may be necessary
during the progress of the works, the Contractor shall have carried out classification tests,
including natural moisture content and compaction tests 12, 13 or 14 of BS 1377, as
appropriate, on the main types of materials originating from the site and any proposed to
be imported (refer to sub clause 3.1.1) to determine acceptability and optimal compaction
requirements. For soils having more than 15% passing 63 microns the Engineer may also
specify moisture condition value tests in accordance with TRRL SR 522.

3. For materials which are non-plastic according to BS 1377 and have not more than 10%
passing 75 microns the compaction test shall be in accordance with test 14 of BS 1377
unless otherwise specified.

4. The Engineer shall be advised of when the tests are to be undertaken. Two copies of all
test results shall be forwarded to him for his approval prior to the commencement of work
and thereafter as occasion arises (refer to clause 11).

5. Where an end-product for the state of compaction is specified, the Contractor shall submit
to the Engineer his proposals giving the maximum compacted depth of each layer, the
type(s)of plant and the number of passes for compaction for each type of material. The
Contractor shall demonstrate to the Engineer’s satisfaction that he can achieve the
requirements regarding compaction before the works commence by carrying out
compaction trials. Where compaction is required, the Contractor shall submit his method
of compaction for each material form the specified range of options.

Smooth-wheeled, pneumatic tyre or vibratory rollers shall not be permitted for compaction
of cohesive soils having a liquid limit greater than 50%. Earth-moving plant will not be
accepted as compaction equipment under this clause nor shall the use of lighter category
of plant to provide any preliminary compaction to assist the use of heavier plant to be
taken into account in assuming the amount of compaction required for any layer.

6. Where side slopes to fill, are shown on the drawings the Contractor shall submit the
Engineer’s approval his method for obtaining compaction, as specified, to the lines and
levels shown on the drawings.

7. The frequency of testing the compacted fill shall be sufficient in relation to the volume of
particular works, the rate of placing and its purpose, and shall be as agreed with the
Engineer in accordance with clause 11.

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8. When method of compaction is specified by the Engineer the Contractor will be required
to carry out tests in accordance with 2 above and when instructed by the Engineer or
carry out comparative field density tests determined in accordance with BS 1377 test 15.
If the test results, when compared with the results of similar tests on a adjacent approved
work, in similar materials, carried out in accordance with the specification show the state
of compaction to be inadequate the Contractor shall carry out such further work as the
Engineer may decide required to achieve adequate compaction.

9. Works on both cohesive and non-cohesive material shall proceed as soon as practicable
after excavation and/or placing. Compaction requirements where not fully stated within
this clause or given on the drawings shall be as instructed by the Engineer.

10. Work shall be continued until a state of compaction is reached throughout filled areas,
including slopes of embankments, such that dry density test from the compacted material
in accordance with test 15 of BS 1377, has a dry density not less than stated below.

a. For non-cohesive materials, within the limits of sub-clause 14.04.3, and for materials with a
plasticity index exceeding 6%, the state of compaction shall be such that the compacted
material has a dry density not less than 98% of maximum dry density and a moisture content
within range of 1% above and 2% below optimum percentage as determined in accordance
with test 14 of BS 1377 unless otherwise specified by the Engineer.
b. For intermediate materials the state of compaction shall be such that the compacted material
has a dry density not less than the specified percentage of maximum dry density and a
moisture content within the specified range related to optimum percentage as determined in
accordance with test 13 of BS 1377 unless otherwise specified by the Engineer.
c. For cohesive materials the state of compaction shall be such that the compacted material has
a dry density not less than that corresponding to the maximum specified percentage air voids
content and within the specified upper limit of moisture content as determined in accordance
with tests 6 and 13 of BS 1377 unless otherwise specified by the Engineer.

Where fill materials have particle sizes exceeding the maximum size allowable in the relevant BS 1377
compacted test (tests 12, 13 and 14), the procedures for comparing test values with filled values shall be
agreed with the Engineer prior to such fill materials being used.

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01.14.04.2 Non-structural Fill

1. Before filling, spreading and compacting operations are commenced, materials shall be
classified by the Contractor for acceptability in accordance with clauses 10.07 and 10.08 and
approved by the Engineer.

2. Fill shall be spread in layers not exceeding 200 mm in thickness unless otherwise
specified by the Engineer. Spreading shall not be done when the ground or the fill is
excessively wet, or otherwise in a condition detrimental to the work nor shall it be done in
heavy rain.

01.14.05 Benching

1. Where filler is to be used on sloping ground (steeper than one vertical to six horizontal)
the surface of the ground shall be benched in steps, or as shown on the drawings, to
enable merging of the fill with the existing slope, and may include, as necessary, under
draining for dealing with water.

2. Fill material in areas of benching shall be carefully placed and compacted to ensure that
no voids occur at the vertical steps of the benching.

3. Placing and compacting of fill material on a lower bench shall continue to a level one
compacted layer thickness above an adjacent higher bench before material is placed
upon the later bench.

4. Four additional passes of the approved compaction plant shall be made over a width of
two meters each side of each vertical face immediately following the compaction of the
first layer of material on each bench

01.14.06 Rock fill: Spreading and Compaction (only for diversion of wadi)

1. Rock fill shall be as specified in clause 10.15.

2. Material used in rock fill shall, except for any specified cover to slopes or near bottom of
capping layer of formation level, be of such size that it can be deposited in horizontal
layers each not exceeding 450 mm loose depth and extending over the full width of the
area of the embankment. Material shall be spread and levelled by a crawler tractor having
a mass of not less 15 tonnes and compacted. The top surface and slopes of
embankments as formed shall thoroughly blinded with approved fine graded material to
seal the surface and give a compacted stable surface. Such fine graded material may on
side slopes and verges be top soil except where the final surface may be such as paving
or otherwise shown on drawings.

3. Each layer in rock fill shall be compacted at least 12 passes of a towed vibratory roller
with a static mass a meter width of roll at least 800 kg or grid roller with a mass a meter
width of roll at least 8000 kg or other approved plant

4. Where rock is used as general fill and has the properties of rock fill it shall be spread and
compacted as for rock fill.

01.14.07 Preparation and Surface Treatment of Sub-Formation

1. Preparation and surface treatment of the sub-formation shall be carried out only after
completion of any sub-grade drainage and, unless otherwise agreed with the Engineer,
immediately prior to laying of the copping layer or other pavement layer. The sequence of
operation shall be as follows.

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a. The surface shall, after reinstatement of any soft areas, be well cleaned and free from mud
and slurry.
b. The surface shall be compacted by a 4 passes of a smoothwheeled roller having a mass a
meter width of roll 4400 kg to 6000 kg.
c. The layer below the sub-formation shall be regulated and trimmed within a tolerance of +20
mm or -3 mm.
d. Where the surface is too high it shall be re-trimmed and recompacted in accordance with this
specification. If the surface is too low the deficiency shall be corrected by the addition of
suitable material of the same classification and moisture content or other approved material
laid and compacted to specification. In cohesive soils where the surface is less than 150 mm
below formation level before replacement material is spread and compacted.
e. The trimmed surface of the sub-formation shall be rolled by 1 pass of a smooth-wheeled roller
having a mass meter width of roll not less than 2100 kg.

If the Contractor allows the moisture content of accepted compacted material to reach a value above the
maximum permitted under the contract for material for compaction the Contractor shall allow the material
revert to an acceptable moisture content and , if directed by the Engineer, make good the surface by re
compaction before laying the capping layer or any other pavement layer. Alternatively, the Engineer may
allow or require the affected material or layer to be removed and replaced with acceptable material.

01.15 Reinstatement

01.15.01 General

These clauses cover the reinstatement of surfaces which existed before the contract commenced, which
have been disturbed in the course of the works and which are not finished as part of the other works.
Where reinstatement involves such as public utilities or services, or public highways, roads or footpaths or
such privately owned facility, the Contractor shall ascertain the requirements of the relevant authority or
owner, and carry out reinstatement to the requirements of the relevant authority or owner where superior
to the requirements in this specification

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01.15.02 Reinstatement of Surfaces over Trenches

1. Those parts of the site or any areas outside the site disturbed by excavation for service
trenches shall be reinstated to the same standard as existed before the works
commenced unless otherwise shown on the drawings or instructed by the Engineer.

2. Backfilling shall be properly carried out in accordance with clause 14.02.

3. Any settlement that occurs shall be made good by the Contractor together with the
surface condition being maintained in its former condition as defined in sub-clause 6.2.1
above.

01.15.03 Public and Private Highways, Roads and Footpaths

1. Where these have been disturbed by excavation for trenches the material to be used for
backfilling shall be approved material and be such that thoroughly compacted it shall
have negligible consolidation characteristics. The backfilling shall be carried out in
accordance with clause 14.02

2. Paved and hard surfaces shall be temporarily reinstated by the Contractor immediately
following backfilling before reopening the disturbed areas to traffic. The materials used
shall be appropriate to the adjacent construction. Verges shall be temporarily reinstated
to match nearly as possible the adjacent areas.

3. Unless shown on the drawing or instructed otherwise by the Engineer the surface over
disturbed areas shall be permanently reinstated by the Contractor, within 1 month of the
temporary reinstatement, in materials and construction similar to the adjoining surfaces
and in a manner specified by the Engineer to obtain proper integration between these
adjoining surfaces. To ensure satisfactory integration the new and existing construction
each layer is to be stepped back beyond the edges of excavation and underlying layers.

01.16 Geo-grids

Geo-grids are to be laid flat on the soil raft wherever required in layers, as instructed by the Engineer.

Geo-grids shall be of polypropylene with long term protection from ultra-violet attack provided by
incorporating 2% finely divided carbon black. The material shall be inert to all chemicals found in soils. It
shall be susceptible to hydrolysis and shall have no solvents at ambient temperatures. It shall be
unaffected by micro organisms as well.

The mesh shall be formed in rolls with mesh size to be 33 mm clear. The overall weight of the grid being
kg/m3, as per supplier.

The strength properties shall be as under:

Specified
Load @ 2% Load @ 5%
Strength
Strain (KN/m) Strain (KN/m)
(KN/m)

Transverse 40 14 28

Longitudinal 40 14 28

The Contractor to submit shop drawings for approval.

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01.17 Geotechnical Investigation

01.17.01 Scope of Works

1. The location of bore-holes and trial pits to be decided by the Engineer in the site plan.

2. Excavating by hand, search pits to locate any services before commencement or boring
and trial pitting, including the recording and reporting of any services uncovered, to a
minimum depth of 1.0 m below existing ground level.

3. Boring bore-holes of varying depths as indicated in bill of quantities and deepening on the
strata encountered.

4. Rock shall mean strata that requires blasting or pneumatic tools or chisels for removal. If
rock is encountered which is to be proved or further investigated, employ rotary coring
techniques to recover rock cores of minimum 50 mm diameter. Every effort should be
made to maximize core recovery and recovery should not fall below 80%.

5. Excavating trial pits to a minimum depth of 3 m or to prove bedrock depending on the

strata encountered at the locations shown on the enclosed drawings.

6. At each point investigation, recording the ground level related to an agreed datum, details
of the strata penetrated and storing on site in airtight containers, representative samples
of each stratum encountered.

7. Informing the Engineer the details of strata penetrated before backfilling or moving or to
the next point of investigation.

8. Recording the setting out of each borehole, trial pit and search pit in relation to agreed
base lines.

9. Recording the ground water level when first encountered in each excavation and the
stand level after 24 hours. Installing a minimum 2 nos. Standpipes for long term
monitoring as deemed necessary as per the guidelines set out in Clause 26.7 of BS 5930.

10. In boreholes:

a. Carrying out in-situ standard penetration tests at 1 to 1.5 m intervals in granular materials if
encountered.
b. Taking undisturbed U 100 samples of cohesive soils, if encountered at 1.5 m intervals.

11. In Trial pits:

a. Carrying out in-situ density determinations by the sand core replacement method at 1 m
intervals in granular materials, if encountered
b. Carrying out in-situ penetration tests by hand penetrometer at 1 m intervals, i.e. cohesive
soils, if encountered.
c. Taking undisturbed samples of cohesive soils, if encountered, at 1.5 m intervals.

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12. Carrying out permeability tests as desired.

13. Taking bulk and small disturbed samples for testing and carrying out agreed laboratory
tests.

14. The following tests may be required:

a. Chemical tests of soil and/or ground water to determine sulphate content, chloride content
and ph values (including limited water extract tests to determine water soluble
sulphates/chlorides).
b. Sieve analysis of sand and gravel samples.
c. Unit weight determination of undisturbed block samples.
d. Density, moisture content, particle size distribution and index properties of clay and fine
grained soils, if encountered.
e. Hand penetrometer testing of undisturbed cohesive samples.
f. Tri axial compression tests on samples of clay or fine grained sand, if encountered.
g. Consolidated tests on samples of clay or fine grained soils, if encountered.
h. Modified Proctor determination of fill material or natural granular soils.
i. Atterberg limits.

The number of each test (item a to i) to be carried out by Contractor is to be agreed upon with the
Engineer.

15. The scope of the investigation shall be to examine the ground conditions and to furnish
recommendations on foundation design along with all related geotechnical information.

The Contractor shall inspect the founding strata for confirming the recommendation of the site
investigations report whilst the construction of the proposed projects is to progress and advise suitably, if
the strata encountered at certain locations is different from these investigated earlier.

01.17.02 Backfilling

1. The trial pits and boreholes should be sited and backfilled with care. The trial pits shall be
backfilled in layers with materials consisting of naturally occurring gravel stones or other
approved inert, non-plastic material. The maximum particle size shall not exceed 70 mm
and the material shall be well graded with sufficient quantity of fines. The filling shall be
thoroughly compacted by wetting the material to the optimum moisture content to achieve
density of 97% of the maximum dry density determined as per tests 13 and 15 of BS
1377.

All surplus material shall be disposed off outside the site as directed by the Engineer/concemed
Authorities.

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2. The boreholes shall be backfilled with a cement based grout with an expanding agent
introduced at the lowest point by means of pipe. It shall be cement bentonite grout, about
4:1 mixed with no more water than necessary to permit the grout to flow or to be pumped.

01.17.03 Report

1. The report shall be prepared in accordance with Clause 40 of BS 5930 in S.I. units and
submitted in three copies.

2. Field Report:

The field report shall record all necessary data that are necessary for eventual interpretation,
analysis and recommendation.

The precise location and ground level of each test with reference to a datum shall be recorded.

The detailed recording of soils and rocks, their stratification, structure and fabric should be made by
a suitably qualified and experience Engineering geologist competent in geo techniques. All data
pertaining to incidence and behaviour of ground water shall also be recorded.

The Contractor shall submit logs to the Engineer immediately upon completion of each borehole,
trial pit and search pit.

3. Final Report:

The report shall describe the location of this site and include details pertaining to relative levels
between the site and its surrounding with reference to a standard bench mark.

Account shall be given of the methods of investigation and testing used including description of all
equipments used. The report is to be the Contractor’s interpretation of the test results with
recommendations for founding design including observations on various levels as a suitable
solution to founding the proposed development and commenting on why any particular solution
should be rejected. The Contractor should also comment on the settlements he estimates for the
various solutions he proposed.

Calculations showing relationship between test results and recommended ground bearing
pressure, predicted settlements, etc, must be included in the report, when appropriate.

The boreholes logs shall be included and shall be prepared based on the guidelines given in
Clause 40.2.6 of BS 5930.

4. All samples are property of the employer. Samples shall be retained by the Contractor for
a period of 4 months after submission of the site investigation report. It is the Contractor’s
responsibility to contact the Engineer after the four month period prior to disposal of the
samples.

Earthworks specification 27