The Observational Method in Geotechnical Engineering

In his 1969 Rankine lecture, Peck set out the main principles of the observational method. Over the past five years there has been a revival in the use of the method on several major projects. However, very little specific information on the procedures adopted and the relevance of Peck's original principles has been published. This book provides papers which have been specifically written on the observational method together with the presentations and discussion which took place last year at the Institution of Civil Engineers. These include 'A Way Forward', a paper which summarizes the scope for future progress with the method, and a copy of Peck's original Rankine lecture which has been republished as an appendix for easy reference. In one comprehensive volume, it: outlines the history of the observational method provides new case histories on UK projects such as the Limehouse Link, the Docklands light Railway and overseas experience in Japan and Singapore summarizes progress in this rapidly developing area relates the observational method to our current design codes and contract document and provides suggestions for future developments integrates the method into value engineering and Latham's proposed changes to the construction industry considers the implications of health and safety legislation, such as the CDM Regulations, where risk management techniques are required explains the requirements for good site management develops and catalogues contingency measures provides examples of developments in monitoring and site control procedures outlines future developments and scope for revisions to the principles and definitions for the method The observational method can produce savings in cost and time whilst maintaining safety, providing the design can be reviewed and modified appropriately as the work progresses. This book provides you with up-to-date guidance on the observational method its pitfalls and benefits - and will prove to be an essential reference work for all ground engineers.

Table of Contents:
* Preface * An overview of the observational method:development in cut and cover and bored tunnelling projects * The observational approach to design of a sheet-piled retaining wall * Application of the observational method to a deep basement excavated using the top-down method * Construction control for underpinning piles and their behaviour during excavation * Observations of ground and structure movements for compensation grouting during tunnel construction at Waterloo station * A methodology for the investigatin and treatment of strata affected by gold mining in Johannesburg * The design of groundwater control systems using the observational method * Application of the observational method to hydraulic fill reclamation projects * Observational design method for earth structures constructed on soft ground * Performance of Foyle Bridge east abutment * Report of afternoon symposium * Discussion * The way forward * Appendices