Geotechnical Engineering:

Whatever structure is built, from the humblest dwelling to the largest dam, it is founded on the earth. The science and art of geotechnical engineering enables the designer to assess the quality of the foundations and adjust designs accordingly. Where earth structures such as dams or road cuttings and embankments are required, the geotechical engineer plays a crucial role.

HHO Africa has had an in-house geotechnical section for many years. Not only does the section assist the HHO Africa road and structures design teams but it also meets the more specific needs of individual clients over a wide range of geotechnical problems. More recently the section has also become involved in environmental management particularly in relation to borrowpit development and rehabilitation.

Among the services that the geotechnical section can offer are :

	Location and investigation of construction materials
	Foundation investigations for roads, bridges and structures
	Design of cuttings, embankments and retaining walls
	Investigation and stability analysis of unstable slopes
	Design of lateral support systems for excavations
	Earth and rock anchor design and construction supervision
	Sub-surface drainage systems to drain waterlogged soils
	Design and safety inspection of earth dams including slope stability analyses
	Environmental management programmes for quarries and borrow pits
	Waste management and landfill design

HHO Africa have specific experience of the geotechnical problems related to road building and earthworks in the difficult geological conditions of the Eastern Cape with its steep topography and shale geology.

Their expertise also extends over wide areas of the Western Cape with extensive knowledge of the prevailing geological and foundation conditions and problems related to the availability of suitable construction materials.

For further information or queries please contact charl@hho.co.za