This updated publication lists the risks civil and structural engineers assume when they develop geotechnical-engineering scopes of service and solicit proposals or bids. Guidance is given on techniques for reducing the design team's liability exposure, principally through reliance on qualifications-based selection (QBS).

This message to owners underscores the importance of relying on a qualified geotechnical professional, noting that the fee premium paid to achieve high quality is tiny compared to the cost of correcting the problems high quality can prevent.

LOL, geotechnical engineer, risk, civil, structural, guidance, technique