Shoring is bedrock of sound construction

Civil engineering experts say that proper shoring is essential for excavation in Abu Dhabi to prevent ground collapse.

“Collapse of the ground is the main problem associated with risk to neighbouring structures or roads,” said Chris Seymour, head of property at the consultancy EC Harris. “They should always be checked, and generally are always checked, by a qualified engineer.”

In Abu Dhabi, ground can be variable. Engineers typically find ground that was filled, sand and bedrock, Mr Seymour said.

Deep excavation needs adequate support before the foundation is placed, said Omer Mughieda, associate professor of civil engineering at Abu Dhabi University.

“If the excavation is adjacent to or in the vicinity of another building, in this case you need to support the excavation while you are still digging because when you excavate, you are relaxing the lateral support of the soil,” Mr Mughieda said.

“The adjacent building may experience later movement of the foundation or the settlement.

“Excavation next to adjacent buildings should be supported by a proper system – could be sheet pile, could be secant pile.”

Sheet piling involves using steel as a continuous barrier, while secant piling is building retaining walls to control groundwater.