Sinkhole investigation methods: the next step after special publication no. 57
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ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Sinkhole investigation methods: the next step after special publication no. 57 E. D. Zisman • Mike Wightman • Justin Kestner
Accepted: 2 February 2013 / Published online: 31 March 2013 Ó Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013
Abstract Presently, there is no standard method required by the Florida statutes in a sinkhole investigation. However, most investigators follow the recommendations found in the Florida Geological Survey, Special Publication No. 57 (SP 57). This paper expands on the information in SP 57 by providing specific geophysical, geotechnical and structural recommendations that should be considered in sinkhole investigations. In particular, attention is directed at developing an understanding of the interaction of a building with the subsurface, how an investigation should be conducted to obtain this crucial information, and how the investigative process is interactive: as new information is developed, previous assumptions need to be reexamined in light of the new data. In addition, recommendations are made for the various steps to be taken in a subsurface investigation. Using the recommendations found in this manuscript, sinkhole investigations can become more standardized and comprehensive thereby gaining more agreement among investigators in the outcome of the investigation. Keywords Statute Structural damage Investigation Sinkhole
E. D. Zisman (&) ATC Associates, Tampa, FL, USA e-mail: [email protected] M. Wightman GeoView, St. Petersburg, FL, USA J. Kestner Haag Engineering, Tampa, FL, USA
Introduction General In many instances, the stakes in a sinkhole investigation become very high with costs for repair occasionally exceeding $200,000. The actual costs may vary depending on the perceived severity of building damage, the extent of stabilization required, and sinkhole insurance policy limits. The quest for fairness in sinkhole investigations and, in many cases, monetary gain have spawned a cottage industry of litigators who seek the services of some professionals to find a sinkhole or to create uncertainty about subsurface conditions that increase the costs for remediation. Presently, much ambiguity exists in the statute, such as in the use of the term ‘‘structural damage’’. However, by standardizing investigation methods, procedures, and definitions, as recommended herein, it is hoped that the industry will move closer to developing a more uniform method for sinkhole investigations which will result in less litigation and more agreement in investigation results. Standardization In Florida, there is a standard that consultants generally follow when performing a sinkhole investigation; this standard is outlined in Florida Geological Survey Special Publication No. 57 (SP 57). The last version of the standard was published in 2005 to provide guidance to geologists and engineers by furnishing, for the first time, a suggested method for sinkhole investigations. This information is valuable and helpful to all geo-professionals seeking to understand subsurface conditions
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