Volume 6 – Geotechnical Manual, Site Investigation and Engineering ...

Chapter 1 GENERAL
1 GENERAL
1.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
Part 1 Volume 6 is developed around the aspects of geotechnical engineering usually required in
JPS nature of work, that include earth retaining structures, river works, embankment, revetment,
slope stability and stabilization works as well as the various coastal and hydraulic related works. It
serves to provide a very selective and by no means comprehensive overview of fundamental
practical knowledge ranging from methods of theoretically based analysis to “rules of thumb”
solutions for geotechnical and foundation analysis, design and construction issues encountered in
JPS work.
It is envisaged that this manual will most likely be used by practicing civil generalists, geotechnical
and foundation specialists, and others involved in the planning, design and construction of JPS’s
nature of works.
The main goals of this Part are to:-
a) Provide a general understanding and appreciation of the geotechnical principles gearing
towards a sound, safe and cost-effective design and construction of JPS projects.
b) Serve as a consistent guidance for the practitioners involved in the geotechnical planning,
design and construction in all phases of a JPS project.
c) Encourage the readers to follow through the topic of interest in one or more of the
reference books mentioned in the references
1.2 LIMITATION OF MANUAL
Even though the material presented is theoretically correct and represents the current state-of-thepractice,
the user must realize that there is no possible way to cover all the various intricate aspects
of geotechnical engineering. Owing to the high degree of ambiguities and uncertainties in the
various aspect of geotechnical engineering, sound engineering judgment from highly experience
and competent specialist practicing engineer is most important. For example, the values for the
parameters to be used in the analysis and design should be selected by a geotechnical specialist
who is intimately familiar with the type of soil in that region and intimately knowledgeable about
the regional construction procedures that are required for the proper installation of such
foundations in local soils. Often the key in the successful practice and application of geotechnical
engineering lies in a sound knowledge and understanding of the engineering properties and
behavior of soils in situ when subjected to changes in the environment conditions such as
engineering loading or unloading.
March 2009 1-1