How to Manage Risk in Ground Improvement Projects Like a Pro

Key Concepts

• Risk factors in ground improvement projects
• Risk mitigation strategies
• Geotechnical reports and Google Earth for site assessment
• Obstructions and underground utilities
• Logistics planning and supply chain challenges
• Working pads and site safety
• Importance of planning and communication
• Risk register process (probability and impact)
• Versatility and flexibility in equipment and solutions

Risk Factors and Mitigation in Ground Improvement Projects

• The Biggest Risk: Unknowns: The primary challenge in ground improvement is dealing with subsurface unknowns.
• Information Gathering: Mitigating risk involves gathering as much information as possible through:
  • Geotechnical Reports: These provide a limited sample of subsurface conditions.
  • Google Earth Aerial Views: Historical aerial imagery can reveal past site usage (e.g., steel mill vs. cornfield), indicating potential subsurface conditions.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluating the level of risk associated with potential unknowns, such as soft soils, obstructions, and utilities.
• Versatile Equipment Fleet: Having a diverse range of equipment (e.g., for pre-drilling, stone columns, rigid inclusions) allows for flexibility in adapting to varying soil conditions.
• Risk Register Process: Identifying, rating (probability and impact), and prioritizing risks at the beginning of a project. High-probability, high-impact risks require the most attention.

Navigating Obstructions and Underground Utilities

• Information Sources:
  • Geotechnical Reports: Limited sample size.
  • Historical Aerial Imagery: Provides context on past site activities.
  • Project Civil Plans: Identifies existing and planned utilities.
• Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR): Used for more direct utility detection, especially on high-risk sites.
• Pre-Drilling: Preparing to pre-drill obstructions with appropriate equipment.
• Contractual and Equipment Preparedness: Structuring the job to withstand potential risks through contract terms and equipment selection.
• Utility Risks: Utilities pose both economic and safety risks. Hitting a gas line, for example, can have severe consequences.
• Easements: Awareness of legal issues related to underground utilities and easements.

Logistics Planning and Supply Chain Challenges

• Importance of Planning: Detailed planning is crucial, especially on small sites with large equipment.
• Clear Expectations: Ensuring a shared understanding and agreement between the contractor and client regarding project expectations.
• Vendor Communication: Proactive communication with vendors and suppliers regarding delivery schedules, quantities, and timing.
• Equipment Versatility: A versatile equipment fleet provides flexibility in adapting to logistical challenges.

Working Pads and Site Safety

• Key Factors in Working Pad Design:
  • Existing Soil Conditions: Understanding the existing soil properties.
  • Future Site Grades: Considering planned elevation changes.
  • Subsurface Conditions: Identifying what lies beneath the surface.
• Soil Improvement: Determining the necessary ground improvement to support heavy equipment.
• Equipment Considerations: Different types of rigs (large vs. small) require different levels of ground improvement.
• Stability: Ensuring the working platform is stable to prevent equipment from sinking or becoming uneven, which can lead to accidents.
• General Site Stabilization: The need for some kind of stabilization routine to ensure safety and project success.

PM Pitfalls and Recommendations

• Lack of Planning and Communication: Insufficient planning and poor communication are major pitfalls.
• Asking Questions: Asking thorough questions from the beginning of the project to understand all aspects of the job. "No question is dumb."
• Alignment and Agreement: Ensuring that both the contractor's and client's teams have a shared understanding and agreement on the project plan.
• Proactive Planning: Planning for potential scope changes and establishing clear processes for handling them.
• Risk Process: Project managers don't plan enough for risks and are not proactive enough when it comes to risk planning.

Conclusion

Effective risk management in ground improvement and other AEC projects hinges on thorough planning, proactive communication, and a versatile approach. Gathering comprehensive site information, assessing potential risks, and maintaining flexibility in equipment and solutions are crucial for mitigating costly issues and ensuring project success. The key takeaway is that proactive risk management, driven by asking questions and ensuring alignment between all parties, is essential for delivering projects on time and within budget.