E – 1263 Field Explorations for Foundations

Field explorations of existing soil and rock conditions are essential before undertaking design of foundations for buildings and structures. This course introduces you to investigational programs for surface examination including documentary evidence, field reconnaissance, and local experience, as well as preliminary and detailed subsurface exploration.

Course Outline

1. INVESTIGATIONAL PROGRAMS
2. SOIL BORING PROGRAM
3. FIELD MEASUREMENTS OF RELATIVE DENSITY AND CONSISTENCY
4. BORING LOGS
5. GROUNDWATER OBSERVATIONS
6. IN SITU LOAD TESTS
7. GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION
8. BOREHOLE SURVEYING

This is an introduction to methods, techniques and equipment for undertaking field exploration of soil and rock conditions for design of foundations for buildings and structures.

Learning Objectives

At the successful conclusion of this course, you’ll be able to identify and discuss:

• Learn about surface and subsurface investigational programs;
• Learn the methods and techniques used to undertake subsurface exploration by soil borings;
• Learn how to take field measurements of relative soil density and consistency;
• Learn the importance of groundwater observations;
• Learn about techniques for in situ load testing;
• Learn about the technologies available for geophysical exploration;
• Learn the important elements of boring logs; and
• Learn the elements of borehole surveying.