Differing Site Conditions-Engineering and Legal Perspectives

Nick Hudyma, Carolyn J. Fox

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Site characterization data is provided to a contractor or designer for the bidding and potential implementation of a contract. The data is developed through various techniques and is meant to assess the stratigraphy, composition, and properties of subsurface materials which are inherently variable. From a geotechnical engineer's perspective there is uncertainty in the subsurface. If a contractor encounters subsurface materials which are different or not identified in the site characterization data, a differing site condition clam is filed. From a contractor's perspective there is risk in constructing in the subsurface. Although uncertainty and risk are related, the processes of site characterization and subsurface design and construction must not be entangled. Contractors and designers utilize uncertain subsurface data developed through geotechnical site characterization processes to design construction sequences and structural components in the subsurface. Risk can only be realized through design and construction. Suggestions for updating the site characterization process to reduce uncertainty and thus minimize risk are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationGeotechnical and Structural Engineering Congress 2016 - Proceedings of the Joint Geotechnical and Structural Engineering Congress 2016
EditorsC. Yoga Chandran, Marc I. Hoit
Pages239-251
Number of pages13
ISBN (Electronic)9780784479742
DOIs
StatePublished - 2016
EventJoint Geotechnical and Structural Engineering Congress 2016 - Phoenix, United States
Duration: 14 Feb 201617 Feb 2016

Publication series

NameGeotechnical and Structural Engineering Congress 2016 - Proceedings of the Joint Geotechnical and Structural Engineering Congress 2016

Conference

ConferenceJoint Geotechnical and Structural Engineering Congress 2016
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPhoenix
Period14/02/1617/02/16

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