Soil compaction testing is a field and laboratory verification process that determines whether the
soil or engineered fill beneath a structure has been compacted to a level adequate to support anticipated loads.
Proper compaction minimizes post-construction settlement, reduces cracking, and improves the stability of slabs,
foundations, and pavements.
Field testing is performed in accordance with ASTM D1556 – Standard Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil
in Place by Sand-Cone Method. In this procedure, a small volume of soil is excavated, weighed, and replaced with a known
volume of calibrated sand to calculate the in-place wet density and dry density of the compacted material.
Moisture content is determined per ASTM D2216 or ASTM D4944.
The field results are compared to a laboratory-determined maximum dry density and optimum moisture content obtained
from a Standard or Modified Proctor test (ASTM D698 / ASTM D1557). This comparison establishes the
percent compaction, which indicates whether the soil meets the project’s specification or jurisdictional requirement.
Most residential and light-commercial construction in Florida requires a minimum of 95% of the Standard Proctor
Maximum Dry Density (ASTM D698) for foundations and structural fills, and up to 98% of the Modified Proctor
(ASTM D1557) for roadway or pavement subgrades. Meeting these values confirms that the site is properly compacted
for its intended purpose.
The final Compaction Certification Report prepared by Oasis Engineering LLC summarizes all field and laboratory
data, identifies test locations, and provides a Professional Engineer’s signed and sealed statement of compliance.
This document is typically required for building permit closeout and final inspection.
Scope and Limitations: Compaction testing represents a limited verification service conducted in accordance with
the referenced ASTM standards. Results apply only to the specific test locations and conditions observed at the time
of testing. This service does not include continuous site monitoring, geotechnical investigation, soil classification,
or structural design recommendations.
Oasis Engineering LLC’s responsibility is limited to performing and reporting test results in accordance with ASTM procedures.
The client or contractor is responsible for providing safe and accessible test areas, performing the compaction work,
and ensuring that fill materials and procedures meet project requirements prior to testing.
Additional testing may be required if fill materials, site grading, or moisture conditions change after testing.
The Professional Engineer’s certification covers only the test data and observations reported herein.
No warranty, express or implied, is provided regarding the overall performance of the soil, foundation, or structure.
Liability for the service is limited to the amount paid for testing and reporting.
⚖️ Service Commitments and Liability
Standard of Care: The services provided under this contract shall be executed in a manner consistent with
the level of care and skill ordinarily exercised by other professionals providing similar services under similar circumstances
at the time the services are provided.
Indemnification & Limitation of Liability: The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Oasis Engineering,
its officers, employees, and agents, from and against any and all claims, damages, liabilities, or expenses, including
reasonable attorneys’ fees, arising out of or related to the Client’s use of the project, the actions of third parties,
or the Client’s failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations, except to the extent such claims arise directly
from the sole negligence or willful misconduct of Oasis Engineering.
The total liability of Oasis Engineering, its officers, employees, and agents, for all claims arising out of or related
to this agreement, whether in contract, tort, or otherwise, shall not exceed the total compensation actually paid to
Oasis Engineering for the services under this agreement. This limitation of liability shall apply to all legal theories
of liability and to the fullest extent permitted by law.
If at any point the Client, Owner, or any party acting on their behalf engages in conduct, makes requests, or takes actions
that compromise or conflict with the Engineer’s professional responsibilities, ethical obligations, or applicable codes and
standards, Oasis Engineering reserves the right to terminate this agreement immediately upon written notice. This includes,
but is not limited to, any demand for work that violates applicable laws, regulations, or recognized engineering standards
or ethics.
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