Method Statement for the Construction
of Retaining Walls for Two-Level
Basement Project
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1. Scope of Work
This method statement outlines the procedure for the execution of retaining walls for a two-
level basement, including excavation, shoring, concrete works, waterproofing, and
backfilling, in compliance with project specifications, safety standards, and engineering best
practices.
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2. Preparatory Works
- Review and approval of architectural and structural drawings.
- Topographic survey to confirm site levels and excavation boundaries.
- Mobilization of equipment and clearance of the work area.
- Identification of nearby structures and utility lines to plan for protective measures.
- Soil investigation report to determine the appropriate shoring system.
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3. Excavation and Shoring Works
3.1 Excavation Procedure:
- Excavation shall be carried out in stages/layers not exceeding 2.0 meters in depth per
stage.
- Continuous monitoring of soil conditions and excavation walls during the process.
3.2 Shoring and Lateral Support:
- A suitable temporary shoring system (e.g., sheet piling, soldier pile and lagging, or secant
pile wall) shall be installed to prevent soil collapse.
- Shoring components:
- - Vertical Elements: H-beams or piles driven or drilled to the required depth.
- - Horizontal Bracing: Steel struts or tiebacks as needed depending on excavation depth
and soil condition.
- Shoring installation to proceed ahead of each excavation stage to maintain stability.
- All shoring materials shall be inspected and approved before use.
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4. Construction of Retaining Walls
4.1 Foundation Preparation:
- Blinding concrete to be placed after trimming and leveling of excavation base.
- Steel reinforcement for the footing to be installed as per structural drawings.
4.2 Formwork Installation:
- Formwork for the retaining wall to be set with secure bracing to withstand concrete
pressure.
4.3 Reinforcement Works:
- Reinforcement bars to be fixed with correct spacing, lap lengths, and cover.
- Waterstops to be installed at all construction and expansion joints.
4.4 Concreting:
- High-quality concrete to be poured using appropriate placement techniques and internal
vibrators to avoid honeycombing.
- Concrete curing to start immediately after initial set and continue for a minimum of 7 days.
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5. Waterproofing and Backfilling
5.1 Waterproofing System:
- Apply primer followed by bituminous or membrane waterproofing to the exterior face.
- Protection board or drainage mat to be installed over the waterproofing layer.
5.2 Drainage Installation:
- Provide a perforated drainage pipe wrapped in geotextile at the base of the wall.
- Ensure a proper slope for water discharge.
5.3 Backfilling:
- Use selected fill material, placed in layers not exceeding 300 mm and compacted to
required density.
- No backfilling until waterproofing is fully cured and approved.
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6. Responsibilities of Execution Team
Role Responsibility
Site Engineer Day-to-day supervision, coordination, and
quality control
Structural Engineer Review design details and ensure
structural integrity
Safety Engineer Monitor safety practices and enforce
compliance
Foremen & Technicians Execute formwork, steel fixing, and
concreting
Shoring Specialist Design, install, and monitor the temporary
shoring system
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7. Health and Safety Measures
- Secure excavation perimeter with guardrails and warning signs.
- Provide safe access points for personnel and equipment.
- Use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is mandatory at all times.
- Regular inspection of shoring elements for signs of distress or displacement.
- Emergency procedures and evacuation plans to be established and communicated.
- Avoid stockpiling heavy materials near the excavation edge.
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End of Method Statement
