A guide compiled by Mariana Garstea, General Director Sixense Romania
When developing a new building in an urban environment with neighboring structures in the influence area, it is essential to consider several important aspects related to geotechnical and structural monitoring.
These considerations are not only legal obligations, but also to make sure that the development of your project does not encounter blockages from the owners of the neighboring buildings and the control bodies, and most importantly, that your building is safe and durable. Here is a brief guide to keep in mind.
Risk Assessment
It is necessary to first identify the risks your asset is exposed to. Each building has a series of specific risks, which are crucial to understand. We are talking about risks associated with the location, including ground stability, groundwater levels, and the impact on adjacent constructions. Therefore, it is also important to understand how construction activities might affect neighboring buildings, including potential settlement or vibration-induced damage.
Based on the identification and definition of these risks, a geotechnical and structural monitoring program is then developed, tailored to the actual on-site conditions.
Creating a Geotechnical and Structural Monitoring Program
Next, a customized monitoring plan needs to be developed. This plan should address specific, well-defined questions and objectives and include appropriate tools to provide accurate information.
It is important not to copy or use monitoring programs from other projects without a detailed analysis of the on-site situation.
Contracting Geotechnical and Structural Monitoring Services
Seek to collaborate with a dedicated, specialized, and professional partner who truly knows what they are doing. It is important to look at their reputation, portfolio, demonstrated expertise, and supporting evidence. For example, certifications such as the laboratory authorization for testing and analysis in construction, ISO or compliance with quality standards should not be overlooked.
Geotechnical and structural monitoring is not a process to be left to just anyone: it’s not about „just putting a sensor here” or „selling another piece of equipment”. This mindset will not provide any real benefit or value to your construction project. Given that this is a long-term service, it is crucial to choose carefully and with full knowledge.
Using Modern Technologies
Like any other field, geotechnical and structural monitoring has evolved significantly. Today, there is a vast array of technology and digital tools that make monitoring easier, more efficient, and more precise, providing truly high-quality and accurate data.
Do not shy away from using technology. Monitoring today employs sensors for deformation, pressure, or vibration to manually or real-time monitor the behavior of a construction. The data obtained is highly precise and can help you identify problems before they become critical or incur high costs.
Explore automation and AI for predictive analytics and automated alerts. AI can help in identifying patterns and predicting potential structural issues before they escalate. Remember: this is not science fiction, it is the level of development and evolution of the industry today.
Compliance with Current Regulations
Romania has a well-documented legislation on geotechnical and structural monitoring or on tracking the behavior of buildings over time, P130/99 and NP 074/2022 being the most relevant. Information is readily available, so the old excuse of „I didn’t know” cannot protect us from responsibility in the event of an incident or accident due to structural issues.
Monitoring activities should comply with current legislation (which clearly specifies things such as frequency, responsible parties, project stages to consider etc.) to ensure compliance.
Periodic Reporting and Communication
The reporting system is also extremely important. Especially since decisions are based on information and data received from monitoring, it is crucial to ensure that reports are not received „yesterday” when they are needed now. Additionally, the data must be interpreted to turn it into actionable information and accompanied by recommendations for interventions and concrete measures if necessary.
Maintenance of Equipment
Geotechnical and structural monitoring activities also involve regular maintenance of equipment. For data accuracy, optimal functioning and correct instrumentation are required. Ongoing support and maintenance are something any monitoring partner should ensure right from the start.
Behind geotechnical and structural monitoring activities, there are several important factors to consider. All the criteria above must be integrated and ensured for a developer or investor to have a structurally healthy project.
