Method Statement For

Windowless Sampling
Geotechnical & Environmental Ground Sampling

CONTENTS
1.0

INTRODUCTION

2.0

CONTROL

3.0

QUALITY

4.0

SAFETY

5.0

PROCEDURES
5.1 Pre-Survey Questionnaire.
5.2 Adequate Personal Protective Equipment.
5.3 Precautions for the avoidance of existing services (Pipes & Cables).
5.4 Rig Operation.
5.5 Standard Penetration Test
5.6 Dynamic Probing
5.7 Undisturbed sampling U100
5.8 Installations
5.9 Reinstatement & Waste
5.10 Concrete Coring off Rig

6.0

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS

6.1
6.2

Calibration and Maintenance.

Inventory.

7.0

TRAINING

8.0

REFERENCES

9.0

APPENDIX

BDA Site Designation Summary.

Site Designation and Required Personal Protective Equipment.

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1.0

INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this document is to identify the role of Exploration Ltd and all its employees in
the preparation and execution of Soil Sample Survey Projects.
The aim is to specify the method of working in a clearly defined and logical way and one that
embodies all of the Companys Health & Safety and Quality procedures.

2.0

CONTROL
For details regarding the company organisation structure, responsibilities, communication
and reporting, refer to the Company Quality Manual.

3.0

QUALITY
Exploration Ltd operates a comprehensive Quality Management System Reference should
be made to the Company Quality Manual. An uncontrolled version is available on request.

4.0

SAFETY
For all safety issues refer to the Company Health & Safety Manual and the Pre Survey
Health & Safety Questionnaire

5.0

PROCEDURES
5.1

Pre-Survey Health & Safety Questionnaire

Prior to the execution of any sampling, the Rig Operator must have in their possession,
and read, a copy of the Exploration ltd Health & Safety Questionnaire for Soil
Sampling, which will have been supplied to, and filled out by the Consultant / Client
responsible for the site.
Key Point Details Therein:

Location and Nature of the Site

Nature of the work
Actual and Potential Hazards
Safety Equipment
Liability for Damage to Services
Consultant Acceptance

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5.2

Adequate Personal Protective Equipment

Based upon the completed Exploration Ltd Health & Safety Questionnaire information a
categorisation has been achieved for the expected (or unexpected) contaminants at
each site.
This assessment (see Appendix 1) will dictate the levels of P.P.E. required for each site.
Before entering the site and commencing the soil sample operation, a check should be
carried out confirming that levels of advised P.P.E. are achieved (or exceeded).

5.3

Precautions for the avoidance of existing services (Pipes & Cables)

Prior to the execution of any sampling, it is required to establish that the areas selected
for test are devoid of any underground services.
These potentially can be:
Electricity supplies or feeds.
Gas supplies or feeds.
Water supplies or feeds.
Fuel / chemical conveyance pipes
Drainage pipes
Fibre optic cables
Earth cables
Control / alarm cables
Establishing that the selected areas are clear of services will be by a combination of
factors:
Existing and up to date record information for the site may be supplied (if it exists).
A clearance survey (consisting of service route identification) by electro-location
equipment carried out prior to commencement may be supplied.
Surface scarring that infers the addition of a pipe or cable.
Identifying localised areas that have surface covers of any type within them, including
ducting.
The Rig Operator must always perform the following self-check at the selected hole
irrespective of the level of pre-supplied information:
1. Sweep the area with electro-location equipment (typically a Radio Detection Cat)
for power and Radio emissions.
If the above procedure gives a positive reading, then selection of an alternative
(if available) area must occur and the area will be aborted for sampling purposes.

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5.4

Rig Operation
The unit is powered by an 8HP diesel engine, complete with spark arrestor. It is also
equipped with a Chalwyn valve unit to the air intake system, which will cut out the
engine if a predefined level of hydrocarbons attempts to enter the air intake system.
Traction is supplied by two independently steered, rubberised caterpillar tracks. The
speed of the rig is governed to slow speed (approx. 3-6 mph).
When manoeuvring the unit the mast section must always be lowered to the horizontal
position. The unit is driven from the rear and care must be taken that the area to each
side of the unit is clear of personnel particularly on uneven ground should the unit tip
over to one side. The unit is capable of scaling slopes to a maximum of 1 in 3. When
scaling slopes the unit should be driven up the slopes in the forward mode and
descend the slopes in the reverse mode, which will increase the stability of the unit.
Care must be taken when tracking on uneven or soft ground to avoid tipping to the
side.
Once the sampling rig has been positioned over the assigned bore hole the two
stabilising legs must be fitted into the relevant box sections and secured with the
locking pins. The rig can then be jacked level by screwing down the jacking screws at
each corner. This operation must be completed to secure the stability of the rig before
sampling can commence. Should the rig be in such a position that the legs can not be
fitted, then the rig must not be used.
There is a danger zone around the rig. This extends to 3 metres in all directions out
from the rig.
Once the rig has been stabilised and make sure all the machine guards are in place.
(These should only be removed when dismantling the rig).
Making sure the danger zone is clear it is now safe to raise the mast using the
hydraulically operated cylinder. 1 metre sample tubes are to be used, raise the
carriage to the maximum height by depressing the cylinder lever situated on the control
block.
With the carriage at the maximum height the operator must now approach the rig and
attach the first sample tube.
Once the sample tube is in place the operator must clear the danger zone before
commencing sampling.
Lower the carriage until the sample tube rests on the ground. Then lower the hydraulic
cylinder to its minimum position.
It is now safe to commence sampling.
Depress the motor lever to activate the chain driven weight. This will drive the sampler
into the ground.

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Continue this operation until the sampler has been driven its full length into the ground.
Stop the hydraulic motor by releasing the motor lever.
Ensuring the danger zone is clear the hydraulic cylinder can be activated to pull the
sample tube from the ground.
Continue with the next sample tube and an extension rod to continue sampling to the
required depth.
Standard Penetration Test
4.5

A)

Dynamic Probing Test (DP) shall be carried out as per BS 1377: 1990

B)

The SPT Assembly shall be lowered to the base of the hole and then any
penetration due to self-weight shall be recorded.

C)

The test involves the driving of a standard sampler tool a distance of 450 mm into
the bottom of a borehole using the standard weight of 63.5 kg falling through 760
mm.

D)

During the test, the number of blows for two increments of 75 mm, or the
penetration of the tool after 25 blows will be recorded as the seating drive. The
seating drive will be terminated after 150 mm penetration or 25 blows, whichever
is reached first and the test drive will be started.

E)

After the seating drive, the number of blows required for each of four increments
of 75 mm penetration will be recorded as the test drive. The test drive will be
terminated after 300 mm penetration or a total of 50 blows, whichever is reached
first. If the full penetration is not obtained then the number of blows and actual
penetration for the increments will be recorded.

F)

A small disturbed sample for the split spoon sampler will be taken, or a bulk
disturbed sample of soil in the zone of the test if no split spoon sample is
available or required.

G)

The details of the SPT will be recorded on the borehole log. The size and depth
of the casing and depth of water will be recorded.

H)

The test can also be conducted in gravels or gravelly sand in which case the
open drive shoe may be replaced by a solid 60 degree cone, but when this is
used the result should be reported separately from the standard test using the
open drive shoe, and with the preface SPT( C ).

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Dynamic Probing
5.6

A)

Dynamic Probing Test (DPT) shall be carried out as per BS 1377: 1990.

B)

The test involves driving a solid steel or cast iron 90 degree cone into the bottom
of the borehole. The cone is driven at a rate of between 15 to 30 blow per minute
and the number of blows is recorded for each 100 mm increment of penetration.

C)

Heavy Dynamic Probing (DPH) involves the use of a cone 43.7 mm in diameter,
driven by a weight of 50 kg falling through 500 mm. Super Heavy Dynamic
Probing (DPSH) involves the use of a cone 50.5 mm diameter driven by a weight
of 63.5 kg falling through 760 mm.

D)

The diameter of the driving should not exceed 35 mm and their mass shall not
exceed 6 kg/metre.

E)

Driving shall be done continuously as far as this is practicable. Any interruptions

which are longer than 5 minutes shall be recorded in the borehole log.

F)

A torque measuring wrench can be used to rotate the extension rods at a rate of
1.5 turns every metre in order to observe the friction and to record the maximum
torque required to rotate the rods at each test level.

G)

The test report shall conform to the requirements of clause 3.2.5 in BS 1377: Part
1 : 1990.
Undisturbed Sampling (U100)

5.7

5.8

A)

The U100 assembly shall be lowered to the base of the hole.

B)

The test involves driving the U100 tool a distance of 450mm (plus the length of
the cutting shoe) into the bottom of the borehole using the standard weight of
63.5kg falling through 760mm.

C)

During the test the number of blows will be recorded.

D)

Once the sample is recovered the U100 sample and liner will be removed, and
capped. The U100 tube will then be labelled. Information should include
borehole number, sample number, depth, job number and which is the bottom
and top.

E)

When transporting, try not to disturb the samples, also do not leave outdoors in
cold weather conditions overnight.
Installations

On completion of the borehole, either standpipes or monitoring wells can be installed.

The installation usually consists of an open-ended tube, perforated near the base,
which is inserted into the borehole to allow the monitoring of water and/or gas. Gravel

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and Bentonite is backfilled around the well. A lockable cover may be installed at the
top of the borehole if so requested by the Engineer Client.

5.9

5.10

Reinstatement & Waste

A)

On completion of the work, the boreholes may be backfilled with arisings or

reinstated with imported material, usually gravel.

B)

If the borehole is to have instrumentation installed then this will be to the

instructions of the Engineer/Client.

C)

Backfilling will be carried out sensibly in layers, and each borehole will be
properly reinstated so that no depression is left. The surrounding areas will be
reasonably clean and clear of any debris.

D)

Any tracks, paths, fences etc. used for access will be reinstated and all spoil will
be removed in a workman-like manner either to an approved on site skip or to our
own contaminated skip at our premises.

Concrete Coring off the Rig

A)
B)

6.0

Assemble the coring unit by attaching the concrete coring bit via the threaded
connection.
Attach the coring unit onto the rig at the base of the anvil. Connect the hydraulic
hoses leading from the right-hand side of the control block onto the snap-on
couplings of the coring unit. (These hoses will first need to be disconnected from
the chain motor).

C)

Fill a container with water to use as a flushing medium and suspend this above of
the coring unit.

D)

Siphon the water from the container through a hose and attach this to the hose
spigot on the coring unit. The flush must be maintained continuously when coring.

E)
F)

Start rotating the core bit by engaging the lever on the control block.
Lower the carriage fully using the left-hand lever on the control block so that its
weight is bearing down fully on the core bit. Adjust the speed of the engine until
you obtain maximum rate of penetration.

G)

Ensure that water is flushing the bit continuously during coring. If water circulation
stops, remove the core bit from the hole to prevent it becoming burnt out.

H)

After cutting through the concrete raise the carriage slowly and then stop the bit
rotating. Remove the concrete core and detach the coring unit from rig.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS

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6.1

Calibration and Maintenance

Refer to the current Company Quality Manual for standards to be adopted in calibration
and maintenance of measuring devices.
We will carry out regular checks on our plant and equipment and maintain all
necessary and up to date certificates and records for inspection.
Copies of internal/external calibration and maintenance certificates can be supplied for
inspection on request.

6.2

Inventory
Sample survey vehicles will carry a standard Vehicle Equipment Checklist which lists
the minimum levels of equipment required on a vehicle.
Items listed may be left off the vehicle or added to the vehicle depending on the Health
& Safety and/or operational requirements of a particular survey task.

7.0

TRAINING
Particular emphasis will be paid to the methods of work of recruited personnel and to
staff taking on new jobs and responsibilities within the Company.
Almost all jobs that exist within the Company have a training plan associated with
them. This outlines the basic educational standards, and any specialist skills required
to perform duties contained within the jobs. Where relevant, it also indicates outside
training courses associated to a particular role.
Similarly, each employee will have a record showing the training each has received to
date. The record will also indicate the method by which the competency in the
discipline (for which training was received) has been proven. That is, by examination by
practical testing, by certification or from training received from a qualified member of
the Companys in-house staff.

8.0

REFERENCES
These documented procedures should be read in conjunction with Exploration Ltd
quality and Health & Safety Manuals.

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9.0

APPENDIX

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APPENDIX 1 BDA SITE DESIGNATION SUMMARY

BDA
Designation

Site

Category
(Post 1974)

A
GREEN
B
C
YELLOW
D

E
RED

Broad Description of Waste

INERT WASTE: Subsoil. Topsoil, hard core, bricks,
stone, concrete, clay, excavated road materials, glass
ceramics, abrasives etc. Note: There is a possibility
that bonded asbestos could be contained in otherwise
inert areas.
GENERAL WASTE:
Wood, paper, cardboard,
plastics, metals, wool, cork, ash, clinker, cement etc.
PUTRESCIBLE WASTES: Waste food, vegetable
matter, floor sweepings, household waste, animal
carcasses, sludge, trees, bushes, garden waste,
leather etc.
DIFFICULT GENERAL WASTE: Rubber and latex,
tyres, epoxy resin, electrical fittings, soaps,
cosmetics, non-toxic metal and organic compounds,.
Tar, pitch, bitumen, solidified wastes, fuel ashes, silica
dust, etc.
SPECIAL WASTES:
All substances that could
subject persons and animals to risk of death, injury or
impairment of health. Wide range of chemicals, toxic
metal and organic compounds, etc, pharmaceutical
and veterinary wastes, phenols, medical products,
solvents, beryllium, micro-organisms, asbestos,
thiocyanates, cyanides, cyanides, dyestuffs etc.
PROHIBITED WASTES: Hydrocarbons, peroxides,
choartes, flammable and explosive materials,
materials that are particularly corrosive or
carcinogenic etc.

A four-category system is adopted to establish the level of protection to be given:

Level A
Level B

Level C
Level D

Is worn when the highest level of respiratory, skin and eye protection is required
within an area contaminated with highly toxic or corrosive materials.
Protection is utilised on areas where full respiratory protection is warranted, but a
lower level of skin and eye protection is adequate (only a small area of head and
neck is exposed). Examples of Level B sites include abandoned hazardous waste
sites or spill sites where the concentration, lack of warning properties, or
breakthrough characteristics of the contaminants precluded the use of air-purifying
respirators.
Permits the use of air-purifying respiratory. Level B body, foot and hand protection
is normally maintained.
Protection consists of a standard work uniform of coveralls, gloves, safety shoes, or
boots, hard hat and goggles or safety glasses.

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APPENDIX 2 SITE DESIGNATION AND REQUIRED PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

ITEM
PPE
Hard Hat
Ear and Eye Protection
Face Shield
Hand Protection
Overalls
Disposable Overalls
Waterproofs
Disposable Waterproofs
Industrial Boots
Boots (with Sole and Toe Protections)
Respiratory Equipment
SITE EQUIPMENT / SERVICES
Mobile Telephone (outside contaminated area)
Cones or Barriers
Safety, Warning Signs
Clean Water Supply
Changing Room / Washing Facilities
Decontamination Unit / Washing Facilities

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CATEGORY
Green
Yellow

X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X

X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X

Red

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X

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