Ground Gas Membrane Design and Validation

Ground Gas Membrane Protection Validation in line with CIRIA C735

Developers are legally required to assess ground gas risks, where needed implement protective measures, and undergo independent inspections and verifications

Site Investigations and Ground Gas Membrane Solutions from Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Ltd
Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Ltd offer ground gas membrane protection validation in line with CIRIA C735 good practice on gas membrane testing and verification of protection systems for buildings against hazardous ground gases. Our staff are Specialists in Gas Protection Verification’ (SGPV) accredited by the CL:AIRE Gas Protection Verification Accreditation Scheme (GPVS).

With our comprehensive services in site investigations and ground gas membrane design and verification, we offer tailored solutions to mitigate underground hazards effectively.

What is a Ground Gas Membrane?

Ground gas membranes serve as a protective shield against harmful ground gases like radon, methane, and carbon dioxide. Additionally, they function as damp-proofing membranes, shielding properties from moisture infiltration. Typically composed of plastic sheeting, these membranes prevent ground gases from permeating through, and they are commonly installed during construction as an integral part of the foundation design.

Design Considerations for Ground Gas Membranes

Selecting the appropriate gas membrane hinges on several factors, including the types of gases present on-site and their volume flow rates. With thorough site investigation or ground gas monitoring, we can assess the risk level in line with industry standards,  BS 8485 for carbon dioxide and methane gases, and BR 211 for radon. Moreover, the choice of membrane is heavily influenced by the degree of hydrocarbon contamination in the soil, particularly in brownfield sites, which necessitate heightened protection and resistance to volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

ground gas membrane validation

Determining the Need for a Ground Gas Membrane

Developers are legally required to assess ground gas risks, implement protective measures, and undergo independent inspections and verifications to ensure buildings are safe and protected against hazardous gases.

The starting point is a phase 1 desk study .

A Phase 1 Desk Study is a preliminary risk assessment report for a development site, often required for planning application approval. Ideally, a Desk Study should also be accompanied by a walk over survey conducted by an experienced practitioner. By compiling available information in relation to a site’s environmental, geological, hydrogeological, hydrological and mining setting a cost-effective and focussed site investigation will be developed. A Phase 1 Desk Study should always precede any ground investigation.

If the Phase 1 Desk Study highlights the possibility of ground gas then further investigation would be needed depending on the risks highlighted.

At Earth Environmental & Geotechnical we provide a comprehensive range of ground gas monitoring. The assessment of Ground Gas concentrations and flow rates is often an important consideration for new or existing developments near to or on former/active landfill sites, areas of made ground, organic clays, peat deposits, or certain geological terrains.

Our services include

Geotechnical Services Scotland

If you are planning a new development and need geotechnical services contact us now to discuss Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Services throughout the UK.

ground gas membrane validation

Site Investigations and Ground Gas Membrane Solutions from Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Ltd

Ground Gas

With our comprehensive services in site investigations and ground gas membrane design and verification, we offer tailored solutions to mitigate underground hazards effectively.

Expert Site Investigations: At Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Ltd, we specialise in conducting thorough site investigations to assess the presence and concentration of ground gases. Our qualified experts utilise state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to analyse soil composition, monitor gas levels, and evaluate geological conditions. Through meticulous analysis, we provide essential information about potential risks, guiding the development of targeted mitigation strategies.

Customised Ground Gas Membrane Design: Drawing upon our extensive experience and technical acumen, we design bespoke ground gas membrane solutions tailored to your development site or property’s unique requirements. Our team collaborates closely with clients, architects, and developers to understand their specific needs and objectives, ensuring that our designs seamlessly integrate with existing structures and construction plans. From membrane selection to installation specifications, we prioritise precision and effectiveness in every aspect of the design process.

Verification after Installation: Once the ground gas membrane is installed we conduct rigorous verification processes to ensure that the implemented solutions meet the highest standards of performance and compliance in line with CIRIA C735 good practice on gas membrane testing and verification of protection systems for buildings against hazardous ground gases.
Through comprehensive testing and monitoring, we verify the integrity and effectiveness of the installed membranes, providing you with the assurance that your property is adequately protected against ground gas infiltration.

Why Choose Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Ltd?

  • Expertise: With years of industry experience and a team of seasoned professionals, we possess the geotechnical & geoenvironmental skills required
  • Customised Solutions: We understand that every property and development site is unique, which is why we offer  solutions tailored to your development sites specific needs and circumstances
  • Compliance: Our adherence to regulatory standards and best practices ensures that your project remains in full compliance with legal requirements and industry regulations. Our staff are Specialists in Gas Protection Verification’ (SGPV) accredited by the CL:AIRE Gas Protection Verification Accreditation Scheme (GPVS).
  • Commitment to Excellence: From the initial consultation to project completion, we prioritise excellence in every aspect of our service delivery, striving to exceed expectations at every turn

Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Ltd delivers comprehensive solutions that prioritise safety, efficiency, and compliance. With our expertise in site investigations, ground gas membrane design, and verification, we can provide the ground gas solution your development site requires.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your project’s success.

More About Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Ltd.

We have worked on a huge array of your sites, from former gasworks, Victorian reservoirs, sewage works, battery storage facilities, renewable energy projects, asbestos factories, electricity sub-stations, collieries, fuel retailing stations, airports, abattoirs, quarries, landfills, etc.

Our services have been used to assist in securing planning permission and for the planning and design of new retail stores, housing projects, renewable energy, windfarms solar projects, landfills, quarries, and the restoration of numerous brownfield sites.

We deliver, and take pride in, providing cost effective and pragmatic geotechnical and environmental solutions from our 12 offices in Bath, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Inverness,  Stockport, Maidstone, Reading , Exeter, Southampton, Norwich, Birmingham, and Wilton.

All of our offices are run by highly experienced Directors, backed by degree-qualified staff.

Contact Us now to discuss your project