What is Site Investigation?
Site investigation is a vital step in assessing ground conditions before construction, remediation or development begins.
A site investigation report delivers reliable, factual data on the physical and environmental characteristics of the proposed site. This supports informed decision-making, highlights potential risks and ensures compliance with relevant regulations before any work starts.
Our expertise lies in factual data collection and reporting, which can be used to support further interpretive analysis by our trusted Phenna Group partners, CGL and other providers.
At CTS, we follow a strict code of practice for site investigation services and ensure that we always deliver accurate and comprehensive site investigation services to our clients across the UK.
Understanding the Importance of Geotechnical Investigation for SI
A geotechnical investigation forms the foundation of any robust site investigation. It assesses the strength, composition and structure of soils and rocks beneath a site. The data it provides is essential for determining load-bearing capacity and identifying issues such as subsidence before planning or groundwork begins. These findings are presented in an SI Report, which forms a key part of the overall site investigation process.
Geotechnical Investigation Methods
At CTS, we apply a range of geotechnical investigation methods to meet the specific needs of each project. Our site investigation services include:
- Trial pits
- Borehole drilling
- In-situ testing
- Sampling
These methods are used to assess soil stratigraphy and physical properties. All work is carried out by qualified professionals in line with recognised standards and the Code of Practice for Site Investigations.
CTS Site Investigation Services
Our site investigation offering includes a full suite of factual reporting and testing services, carried out in line with industry regulations. These include:
At CTS, we also support contaminated land site investigation projects. In particular, where environmental risks must be evaluated during pre-development projects.
What is Ground Investigation?
Ground investigation is a broad term that is often used interchangeably with site investigation. However, the scope of the two can differ slightly depending on context. Ground investigation typically covers both intrusive and non-intrusive exploration methods to assess site conditions.
Ground Investigation Techniques
Typical ground investigation techniques include:
- Rotary Drilling
- Cable Percussion Boring
- Cone Penetration Testing (CPT)
- Geophysical Surveys
These methods of site investigation help build a detailed picture of subsurface conditions and support safe, sustainable design decisions.
The Role of Ground Investigation in Site Development
Structural and civil engineers rely on the data gathered through ground investigation to make informed design decisions. This data, typically collected through a structured procedure of site investigation, helps identify potential hazards and ensures that risks are addressed early in the design phase.
Where environmental concerns are identified, a contaminated land site investigation may also be required to ensure sufficient data is available. This information feeds into the wider geotechnical investigation process, helping to manage risk during construction.
The Code of Practice for Site Investigations
At CTS, we adhere to the strict Code of Practice for Site Investigations. We ensure that all procedures follow best practice guidelines and are carried out to the highest industry standards.
Our site investigation methods are compliant with BS 5930, BS 5930, BS EN 1997-2, and BS 1377, providing clients with confidence in the accuracy, quality and consistency of our reporting and processes.
Where relevant, we also work in accordance with BS 10175 for contaminated land site investigation.
The 3 Stages of Site Investigation
A site investigation typically includes the following key stages:
Desk Study and Preliminary Investigation
The desk study and preliminary investigation stage involves reviewing historical data, maps and environmental records to identify potential risks and inform project planning.
Intrusive Ground Investigation
Intrusive ground investigation includes the physical investigation of the subsurface using techniques such as boreholes, trial pits and sampling.
The data collected from this stage forms the core of the site investigation report.
Laboratory Testing and Analysis
All samples collected during fieldwork are analysed in our accredited laboratory. The results provide detailed information on soil composition, potential contaminants and other site-specific factors. This data supports the preparation of a comprehensive SI Report, which forms a key part of the overall site investigation process.
At CTS, our expert team also carry out specialist testing required for contaminated land site investigation projects, including chemical analysis of soil and water samples to assess environmental risks and support planning or regulatory requirements.
Why Choose CTS for Site Investigation?
With over 30 years’ experience delivering site investigation and geotechnical services to the highest quality, CTS are able to offer a full range of site investigation services to meet your needs.
To find out more about our Site Investigation services, please contact a member of the CTS team today. We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services and how we can help you.