Earthworks supervision is a critical part of delivering stable, compliant and high-performing construction platforms.
At IdealGeotech, we provide independent earthworks supervision to verify that excavation, filling and compaction works are carried out in accordance with design requirements and AS3798 – Guidelines on Earthworks for Commercial and Residential Developments.
Our supervision services give developers, builders and civil contractors confidence that earthworks are executed correctly and certified without delay.
1. What Is Earthworks Supervision?
Earthworks supervision involves independent geotechnical inspection and testing during earthworks activities to confirm that ground conditions and placed materials meet specified performance and compliance requirements.
Supervision ensures:
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Materials are suitable for use
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Compaction meets required standards
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Moisture conditions are controlled
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Earthworks align with design intent
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Compliance with AS3798 is achieved
Supervision is undertaken progressively throughout construction, allowing issues to be identified and addressed early.
2. Level 1 and Level 2 Earthworks Supervision
AS3798 defines two levels of earthworks supervision, selected based on site risk, ground variability and project complexity.
2.1 Level 1 Earthworks Supervision
Level 1 supervision is suitable for low-risk sites with relatively uniform ground conditions.
Typical characteristics include:
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Limited cut and fill
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Uniform materials
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Low variability in site conditions
Level 1 supervision generally involves:
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Periodic site inspections
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Compaction and moisture testing at selected locations
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Review of earthworks methods
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Reporting and certification upon completion
2.2 Level 2 Earthworks Supervision
Level 2 supervision is required for sites with increased complexity or risk.
Typical characteristics include:
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Variable or reactive soils
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Significant cut and fill
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Use of site-won or imported materials
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Complex staging or sequencing
Level 2 supervision includes:
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Increased inspection frequency
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Regular or continuous site presence
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Comprehensive compaction and density testing
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Moisture control monitoring
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Proof-roll assessments
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Detailed reporting and certification
Level 2 supervision provides a higher level of assurance that earthworks will perform as intended under more demanding conditions.
3. Why Independent Earthworks Supervision Matters
Without appropriate supervision, earthworks risks may not be identified until after construction, resulting in:
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Ground settlement
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Pavement or slab cracking
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Compliance issues
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Costly remediation
Independent earthworks supervision provides objective verification that works meet required standards before construction progresses.
4. Earthworks Supervision Under AS3798
AS3798 requires earthworks to be:
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Properly planned
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Appropriately supervised
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Tested and documented
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Certified upon completion
The required level of supervision is determined by a geotechnical engineer based on site conditions and project risk.
Clear documentation and certification are essential for approvals and handover.
5. Earthworks Supervision with IdealGeotech
Ideal Geotech provides independent Level 1 and Level 2 earthworks supervision across residential, commercial and infrastructure projects.
Our services include:
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Independent site inspections
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Field density and moisture testing
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Verification of material suitability
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GPS-coordinated test coverage
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Clear, contractor-ready reporting
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AS3798-compliant certification
We focus on practical advice, timely reporting and helping projects maintain momentum.
6. Get Certainty from the Ground Up
Earthworks supervision is a critical control point in any construction project.
With independent geotechnical oversight, projects gain confidence that earthworks are compliant, traceable and fit for purpose.
IdealGeotech supports projects with reliable earthworks supervision—helping you take control of ground performance from the start.
