Editorial Note - Vol. 10, No. 2, 2016-Article

Article

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Issue 2 of 2016 presents a four-paper study comparing drilled shaft and bored pile practice in Europe and North America. Led by James Johnson and collaborators from the DFI Drilled Shaft Committee, the project paired North American and European specialists to examine design, construction, contracting, and quality management and assurance. The study draws on a survey conducted on both continents and builds on presentations and discussions at DFI and IFCEE conferences in 2014 and 2015.<br /><br />The papers identify both shared trends and important regional differences. Design practices are shaped by local requirements and by construction considerations, including drilling fluids, reinforcement, and base cleaning. European construction commonly uses performance-based methods and specifications, while North American practice more often relies on prescriptive approaches; casing, drilling-fluid use, and safety requirements also differ. A review of contracting practices highlights varied contract forms, payment methods, and legal responsibilities, while emphasizing the value of a collaborative “team approach” to encourage innovation and improve risk allocation. The final paper surveys construction technologies and their integration into quality programs, including quality assurance guidance, standards, and destructive and nondestructive testing methods.<br /><br />The editors present the collection as a snapshot of current practice intended to promote knowledge exchange, collaboration, and progress across the deep foundation industry.

Keywords

drilled shaft

bored pile

deep foundation

design practices

construction methods

contracting practices

quality assurance

quality management

Europe and North America

nondestructive testing