Geoss Guidelines On Local Practices For Pile Foundation Design And Construction -

The guidelines are not monolithic. GEOSS has published three regional supplements:

For micro-projects (≤20 piles), the guidelines offer a Rapid Assessment Card (RAC) : a one-page decision tree based on five local questions (e.g., "Do neighbors’ piles have cracks?" "Is the water table within 3m?").

GEOSS mandate: Static load tests (or high-strain dynamic tests) must reflect local installation methods and ground conditions. The guidelines are not monolithic

Example table – local practice correction factors (illustrative):

| Soil type | Global standard (theory) | Local practice factor (if no load test) | GEOSS recommendation | |-----------|--------------------------|------------------------------------------|----------------------| | Silty clay (stiff) | 60–100 kPa | 0.7 (local over-excavation common) | Use 50 kPa unless tested | | Loose sand | 30–50 kPa | 0.6 (vibration loosens during boring) | Use 25 kPa | | Weathered shale | 150–200 kPa | 1.0 (if cleaned base) | Test mandatory | The guidelines are not monolithic

A pile is only as strong as its concrete. International codes require 30 MPa concrete, but ready-mix plants may be 200 km away. GEOSS provides alternative pathways:

The current guidelines (v1.2) will evolve. Announced for 2026: The guidelines are not monolithic

GEOSS requires a Local Practice Verification Log for each pile group:

Project: ____________________  Date: ____________
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes and summarizes general local practices. Always consult the specific local Code of Practice (e.g., Hong Kong Buildings Department Code of Practice for Foundations) and relevant GEO Publications for legally binding requirements.
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