Observations/Finding

At the request of the client’s representative, our AS ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING, LLC (ASEC) representative, Amin Azimi visited the job site to observe the contractor’s work activities from a quality standpoint to verify compliance with project drawings/specifications, applicable codes, and materials submittals and conducted QC testing per the project drawings and specifications.  The following observations were made during our evaluation:

This report provides an assessment of the footing excavations for the retaining wall 9 footing.  The assessment covers excavation dimensions, depth, cleanliness, and the results of soil testing using a hand auger, Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (ASTM STP-399), and Probe Rod tests.

The footing excavations were noted to be in general accordance with the project drawings with respect to size and depth. No deviations were noted in this regard.

Additionally, the assessment addressed the cleanliness of the excavations. It was observed that the footing excavations were generally free of loose soil, debris, and water.

Various tests, including dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) and general probing were conducted to assess the quality and bearing capacity of the shallow soils within the footing excavation.

Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (ASTM STP-399): This test was conducted to assess the soil’s compaction and bearing capacity. The results showed that the subgrade at the test locations appeared to be capable of supporting a net allowable bearing pressure of 2000 psf.

Probe Rod Test: General probing, utilizing a 3/8″ diameter probe rod found footing surficial soils to be stable.

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DCP1                                                               DCP2                                              DCP3

Footing subgrade conditions should remain dry and free of loose soils/debris prior to concrete placement. If exposed to inclement weather, the foundation subgrade should be re-observed by ASEC,