Pushing the limits of investigation techniques

Since the Canterbury earthquakes, a number of innovations have been developed to assist engineers in obtaining better quality data regarding the condition of hard to reach structural elements. The subfloor rover survey probably tops this list giving a reliable overview of foundation condition even when access is limited.

Typically this type of investigation has been used for reviewing subfloors in suspended timber frame dwellings, however, FCEL have collaborated with Cavity Critter on two recent projects to investigate the underside of concrete slab foundation supported off deep precast concrete piles.

This is possible thanks to the ground dropping relative to the piled foundation by around 400mm. This previously unseen underslab area is akin to another world and this posed a number of challenges in avoiding losing contact with the remote vehicle.

Issues with signal transfer and unstable tailings all required careful planning in gaining a clear view of the overall condition of the piles and caps.

The client was very happy as these additional investigations allowed a repair to be undertaken in lieu of what was initial expected to be a foundation rebuild.

 
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Finesse - Covid19 Life at Level 2 (Reduce)

As of midnight Wednesday 13th May New Zealand will be moving to alert Level 2 of the Covid19 restrictions.

Whilst many of us will be jumping for joy at the news that we are moving to Level 2, this does however still come with some range of measures that can be applied both locally or nationally. This will mean for many that there is a ‘new’ normal for the way we all carry out our business activities.

People are now able to reconnect with family and friends, go shopping, or travel domestically, but should follow public health guidance.

Physical distancing of two metres from people you don’t know when out in public is recommended, with one-metre physical distancing in a controlled environment like workplaces unless other measures are in place.

Businesses can open to the public, but must follow public health guidance including in relation to physical distancing and contact tracing. Alternative ways of working are encouraged where possible, for example remote working, shift-based working, physical distancing, staggering meal breaks, flexible leave.

As a response to the level 2 restrictions, Finesse Consulting will continuing to follow the guidelines and with this in mind Finesse will now be recommencing site visits.

All New Zealanders should be incredibly proud of the work and sacrifices we have made, level 2 will all mean different things to different people, however, Finesse will continue to put your health and safety of our staff and clients as the number one priority.

Finesse will be recording any contact we have with anyone through our work so contact tracing is simplified.

Covid19 Update

Finesse Consulting have had remote and secure capabilities for some time now allowing staff to work from an ‘in-home’ situation and are available to continue to deliver outcomes in this current lockdown.

We are continuing to work in alignment with the Ministry of Health’s guidelines (as a minimum).

We are in a position to continue to deliver our outputs with confidence for an extended period of time.

We understand that some organisations will choose to continue with projects and planning of works.

Structural Review Clinic

Seen as we are all stuck at home for the next few weeks why not take some time out to think about your house and its structure.

Over the next few weeks, Finesse will be offering a free Friday review clinic where any concerns you may have could be voiced and we can provide some high-level advice on what to do next.

Finesse Consulting Engineers