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; and integrates the method into value engineering and Latham's proposed changes to the construction industry.
It also: 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; and 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.