As far as I'm aware this practice has been going on for ages, especially amongst geotech/engineering consultants who add on 'contamination' testing to their Geo SI work. I'm surprised how many people are 'surprised' by it.
The fact it now seems to be spreading to companies who really should know better is worrying.
Perhaps it's time for an industry led initiative (specific Code of Practice or position statement) relating to this issue?. Companies could then sign up, clearly stating what level of site supervision will be (or was) provided to the drilling contractor/team:
Level 1 - No Site Supervision
Level 2 - Part Time Site Supervision
Level 3 - Full Time Site Supervision
The required level could then be specified in contract docs and by Local Authorities (e.g. 'this LA will only accept contamination investigations using Level 3 supervision'). Level 2 will need to be carefully specified.
Is this something that CL:AIRE, EIC or CIRIA could take forward?
We need a level playing field again - I've had enough of competing against companies who offer up a sub-standard scope of works as the real deal.
Chris Dainton
Peak Environmental Solutions
http://peakenvironmentalsolutions.com/
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