Our specialist staff cover a wide range of technical areas from
the geomorphology of landslips to the advanced numerical analysis
of ground-structure interaction in urban tunnelling projects. We
can help you manage ground related risks and add value to your
project.
Mott MacDonald offers due diligence services in the following
areas:
- ground risk
- slope and foundation instability
- contaminated land
- ground behaviour prediction
- asset management
- site development
- financial estimates
Jubilee Line 102 - Westminster
StationAs well as being able to undertake routine and
innovative foundation, geotechnical engineering work from small to
very large projects, we have experience in developing new ideas for
clients and completing front end studies which add considerable
value.
Risk assessment is the method by which all risks associated with
design, construction and (dependant on scope) operation of a
facility can be identified and then prioritised. Risk management
can be (dependent on contract definition) either the complete
procedure or the management of those risks identified in the risk
assessment.
This systematic approach involves a team effort encompassing the
client, designers and contractors in identifying risks at an early
stage and actions to be implemented either in the eventuality of an
occurrence or to minimise the probability of particular risks
occurring. While the risk management process itself, once setup for
a particular project, is fairly straightforward it is important
that inputs to that process cover all relevant avenues and are
provided by suitably qualified teams. It is necessary to determine
why risk is an issue to the project and understand the impacts it
places at all stages.
Geomorphological StudyOn many projects
the ground can represent a significant risk in terms of hazards
that have not been identified or unexpected variations in
conditions that affect project programme and/or project costs. A
systematic risk management approach to identification of ground
hazards and conditions provides a rational basis for assessing and
hence mitigating the impact of adverse conditions upon the
development and operation of the proposed facility.
The effect of sub-surface excavation by tunnelling or cut and cover
construction on adjacent structures can involve extremely complex
and time dependent modes of soil/structure interaction. While the
assessment procedures for ‘greenfield’ sites are now well
established, predicting the interaction effects of existing
foundations and structures, requires considerable judgement. Mott
MacDonald has ‘state-of-the-art’ experience and expertise in
analytical techniques for the prediction of ground movements in due
diligence cases. This, together with a large data bank of case
records, provides the basis for comprehensive assessments of
potential risks of damage to adjacent structures. A strategy of
monitoring and protective measures is then developed to minimise
the potential risk or damage due to construction related ground
movements.
