Chapter 42: Roles and responsibilities

This chapter provides guidance on the roles and responsibilities of the participants involved in site investigations. The guidance is based upon key documents, which have been published by various organisations involved in this industry. These documents are referenced and it is recommended that they be read. The chapter focuses on the non-technical issues regarding site investigation work. Comments are given on the Institution of Engineers/AGS Specification for Ground Investigation and on the obligations under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, corporate manslaughter and health and safety. The section on conditions of engagement provides commentary on tendering requirements and submissions. The timing of when ground investigations ought to be carried out is discussed in relation to the design stages recommended by the Royal Institute of British Architects. Commercial issues relating to consultants and ground investigations are discussed with comments on the traditional methods of procurement, the one-stop shop approach and the situation when the consultant carries out the ground investigation. Underground services are also mentioned and the chapter concludes with guidance on commercial issues that need to be considered, such as insurance.