Management and Contract Allocation of Geotechnical Risks on Mega Design-Build Infrastructure Projects

Properly managing geotechnical risks early on within construction projects is crucial in preventing claims and disputes over differing site conditions (DSCs). This becomes even more important as projects are continuing to increase in size and complexity. In addition, when designbuild (DB) project delivery method is used on such large projects, there is limited time available to investigate geotechnical risks, and comprehensive geotechnical studies are relegated to the post-award timeframe. This study, investigates how geotechnical risks are being managed and how contracts allocate those risks on mega transportation projects, and provides recommendations on how to best manage such risks, given the increased size and complexity of these DB projects. This is achieved by following the risk management process: (1) identifying and managing geotechnical risks on mega transportation projects through the use of formal risk management programs and risk registers, and (2) allocating risks between the owner and the contractor through the DSC clause. This approach will ultimately aid owners in making decisions on how to effectively manage and allocate risks on mega DB infrastructure projects.