Observations/Finding

1. Introduction: a site visit was conducted by a representative from AS Engineering and Consulting (ASEC) to provide quality control inspection and testing services for the Lakeside project located at Lovers Lane Rd in Calhoun. The purpose of the visit was to verify compliance with project drawings/specifications, applicable codes, and materials submittals using visual observation techniques.
2. Site Visit Details:
   • Project Name: Lakeside Project
   • Location: Lovers Lane Rd, Calhoun
   • Attendees: ASEC Representative, Daniel (Foreman in charge of sanitary and storm drainpipe installation)
3. Observations: During the site visit, the following observations were made: a. Sanitation Line Installation: The foreman, Daniel, informed that the sanitation line between manhole 4.0 and 1.4 had been installed the previous day (unobserved by ASEC representatives). The first lift of backfill, approximately 3 feet in depth, was placed between manhole 1.3 and 1.4.  b. Backfilling Recommendations: A recommendation was made to limit the depth of lifts to 6 inches for the trench packer and 12 inches for the ride-on sheep’s foot vibratory compactor. c. Testing Challenges: Previous underground blasting had mixed soil and rock, making it challenging to conduct compaction testing. Testing could not be completed due to this issue. d. Subsequent Backfilling: Backfilling for the next 3 lifts between manhole 1.3 and 1.4 was completed, with each lift approximately 1-2 feet in depth. The recommendation to keep lifts at 12 inches or less was reiterated. e. Probing Challenges: Probing for the second lift was ineffective due to the concentration of rock fragments. f. Trench Box Usage: A trench box was being utilized due to concerns regarding cave-ins during excavation (see photo).
4. Recommendations: Based on the observations, the following recommendations are made: a. Limit Lift Depth: Ensure that backfilling lifts do not exceed 12 inches in depth to facilitate effective compaction and minimize the risk of settlement.  b. Monitor Probing Effectiveness: Continuously monitor the effectiveness of probing activities and adjust methods as necessary to ensure accurate assessments of soil conditions.
5. Conclusion: The site visit provided valuable insights into the progress and challenges encountered during the Lakeside project. Recommendations have been provided to address backfilling practices, testing challenges, and safety measures.

This report summarizes the observations made during the site visit and outlines recommendations to address identified issues and ensure compliance with project requirements.