Malaysia Geotechnical Society (MGS) commends the Kuala Lumpur mayor for recognising the vital role of geotechnical input in the city’s development, as reflected in the recent directive on the mandatory submission of a geotechnical report for all developments in Kuala Lumpur.
This important requirement extends beyond hillside and hilly terrain projects to include housing developments, roads, and areas near flood detention ponds.
MGS would like to take this opportunity to clarify the differences between soil investigation (SI) reports, geological reports and geotechnical reports.
The SI and geological reports are both factual documents. The SI report provides factual information from subsoil exploration such as drilling and field testing, where soil and rock samples are collected for laboratory testing.
On the other hand, the geological report provides geological findings, including its geological history and composition of the earth’s crust, features and potential geological hazards, prepared by a professional geologist.
It is important to note that both the SI and geological reports are formulated by professional engineers after careful studies of the project requirements and desktop studies of the project site.
These reports form the basis for a geotechnical report, which is prepared and endorsed by a professional engineer with Practising Certificate (PEPC).
It (the geotechnical report) a detailed document that assesses and interprets the data from SI and geological reports, conducts further analyses and designs to provide targeted engineering solutions, such as foundations, retaining structures and slopes of a construction project.
The PEPC should have relevant experience in geotechnical works and technical expertise necessary to assess ground condition and to design safe, effective geotechnical engineering solutions in compliance with industry standards.
It is also recommended that a geotechnical report be prepared by a PEPC with minimum 10 years’ experience in geotechnical works.
MGS believes it is crucial to clarify the differences between the SI reports, geological reports and geotechnical reports.
Geotechnical reports, which include information from soil investigation and geological information for developments, play a vital role in enhancing the safety and sustainability of developments.
This helps set a standard for responsible construction practices.
In fulfilling its duty-bound role, MGS offers technical assistance through our pool of geotechnical experts to help formulate the requirements and guidelines for geotechnical reports.
DR CHAN SWEE HUAT
President
Malaysian Geotechnical Society (MGS)
