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Monitoring Survey

Monitoring surveys are used to identify movement or deformation in a building or structure and to provide essential data to determine whether remedial action is needed. The surveys are used to either monitor movements.

What is Settlement Monitoring Survey?

A monitoring survey is the method of measuring small movements within a structure or building. Monitoring surveys are used to identify movement or deformation in a building or structure and to provide essential data to determine whether remedial action is needed. The surveys are used to either monitor movements. Monitoring surveys can be utilised when it is already known that a movement issue is apparent or when buildings or structures that are in close proximity to ongoing construction projects need monitored closely. Once the monitoring survey system has been set, repeat survey visits can be made in order to take readings and compare these too previous monitoring results.

RSL can provide you with a monitoring survey to identify any movement of buildings, structures and earthworks. We can establish a reliable control network at any proposed site, with the use of reflective survey targets or mounted prisms. These targets or survey prisms can be placed on buildings, walls, bridges or any other required structures, and can then be checked according to the client’s needs depending on the severity of deformation involved. We can provide you with detailed data that is accurately measured with the corresponding data from each survey.

“We have used RSL for numerous precise monitoring surveys on both the Immersed Tunnel sections and the South Junction area of the Tyne Tunnels Project. They have always provided a prompt, professional and reliable service from issue of quotation through to the completion of the required survey work.”

Michael King, Bsc. (Eng.) ACGI MICE CEng. Rendel Limited

Components & Steps of a Settlement Monitoring Survey:

1. Initial Assessment and Planning

  • Site Survey: Conduct an initial site survey to understand the geographical, geological, and structural context.
  • Objective Definition: Define the objectives of the monitoring, such as identifying potential settlement areas, understanding the rate of settlement, and assessing structural stability.
  • Monitoring Plan: Develop a detailed monitoring plan outlining the frequency of measurements, methods to be used, and key locations for monitoring.

2. Data Collection

  • Regular Monitoring: Conduct regular monitoring as per the angered plan. This could be daily, weekly, monthly, annually or any specified interval.
  • Manual and Automated Measurements: Depending on the technology used, measurements can be taken manually or through automated systems that provide real-time data.

3. Data Analysis

  • Data Processing: Processing the collected data to remove any anomalies or errors.
  • Trend Analysis: Analyze the data to identify trends, patterns, and any significant movements.
  • Comparative Analysis: Compare the data with baseline measurements and previous data to assess the rate and extent of settlement.

4. Reporting

  • Regular Reports: Generate regular reports summarizing the findings of each monitoring period. Reports should include graphs, tables, and visualizations of the data.
  • Risk Assessment: Assess the risks associated with the observed settlement. Determine if the settlement is within acceptable limits or if it poses a threat to structures or operations.
  • Recommendations: Provide recommendations for any necessary actions, such as additional monitoring, mitigation measures, or structural reinforcements.

Applications of Settlement Monitoring Surveys

  • Construction Projects: To monitor the stability of structures and ensure safety during and after construction.
  • Infrastructure Maintenance: For bridges, tunnels, dams, and other critical infrastructure.
  • Urban Development: In areas with ongoing construction activities or known subsidence issues.
  • Environmental Monitoring: In areas prone to natural subsidence or landslides.
By implementing a comprehensive settlement monitoring survey service, it is possible to effectively manage the risks associated with ground and structural movements, ensuring the safety and longevity of their projects and assets.