What is excavation in construction?

Excavation is the process of digging the earth to remove soil, rock, or other materials. Excavation and the depth of excavation are crucial parts of civil design especially for factory projects. It can also be a part of other activities like archaeology and mining.

SOP for excavation recommended by Civil Design Consultants

A standard operating procedure (SOP) is essential for excavation. Typically a SOP has the following topics:

1. Planning and Assessment: The Civil consultants typically refer to
   1. The soil test reports or technical reports are used to understand the stability, bearing capacity, and soil type. This report helps ascertain the depth and width of the foundation of a structure.
   2. The groundwater reports help to analyse any contaminants and plan accordingly.
   3. Any underground utilities
   4. Comply with the building codes.
   5. Develop a strategy to mitigate any risks.
2. Excavation Process: The contractor must have proper equipment and personnel for the excavation. The contractor must ensure that appropriate steps are taken for safe sloping and shoring to prevent cave-ins. Additionally, adequate safety measures must be in place.
3. Handling of excavated earth: The contractor must transport the excavated earth from the excavation to the location mentioned in the tender or by the site engineer-in-charge.  
4. Safety Measures: The SOP must include safety procedures for excavation, such as barricading, shoring, PPE, etc.

Excavation is a precursor for foundations and is essential for any structure. The excavated area must provide sufficient space for the foundation.

Key points for contractors :

1. Look for underground utilities like pipelines, electrical cables, and drain lines, especially in brownfield projects while excavating. Protect the utilities.  
2. Ensure that the excavated area is free from loose materials,
3. Necessary precautions must be taken while excavating near an existing structure.
4. Excavate the depth as per the tender. The consultants recommend stopping excavation at least 300 mm before the required level if it is by machine.
5. The contractor must have barricades and control methods to stabilise the excavated area.
6. Record all measurements jointly with the EIC before the next step.

Conclusion

While the civil contractors must have an SOP for excavation, the project specific requirements must also be mentioned in the civil tender by the civil design consultants for factory projects.