.

A boring log is described as the record of exploration procedures and subsurface conditions
encountered during drilling and sampling. Guidelines for the completion of boring logs and
the preparation of classification of soil and rock are described. Also presented are the
techniques for determining subsurface information by visual examination and other methods
while drilling. USCS, the most commonly used system for geotechnical work and the
AASHTO classification system, used for highway subgrade materials, are discussed and
include guidelines for samplers as well as the storage, handling and selection of samples.
Quality assurance for log preparation and measures for accurate identification of subsurface
materials are stressed. The AASHTO and ASTM designations for the most frequently used
drilling methods, equipment and tests are provided.

This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the
understanding of the course materials.

Learning Objective

At the conclusion of this course, the student will:

 Understand the goals and guidelines for planning subsurface explorations;

 Be familiar with the types of subsurface investigation, in-situ investigation, disturbed
and undisturbed sampling and remote sensing;
 Have an understanding of the requirements for the minimum number of borings,
depths and spacing of borings required for producing the minimum subsurface data
for construction;
 Be familiar with typical boring log and coring log forms endorsed by the ASCE along
with the symbols and terms typically used to describe subsurface features;
 Be knowledgeable of the guidelines used for preparation of soil and rock descriptions
and classifications, particularly the UCS and the AASHTO systems;
 Understand the basic operation and procedures for using boring and sampling
equipment;
 Learn about the techniques used in the field for determining strength and other
characteristics of soil and rock;
 Consider the methods and equipment that help to identify soil and rock conditions
during drilling operations;
 Consider the terms used to describe soil and rock materials and formations;
 Understand the importance of recording the visual observations, unusual occurrences
and other field information that is available while drilling;
 Have an understanding of quality assurance for log preparation and measures taken
to insure accurate identification and descriptions of soil and rock; and
 Be informed of the AASHTO and ASTM designations for the commonly used
exploration drilling methods and sampling equipment.