Enhancing Earthwork Safety through Innovative Soil Wall Reinforcement Methods

           The rights of employees, working conditions and safety at work are one of the main challenges for Georgia. The country is gradually fulfilling its obligations under the EU Association Agreement, including by introducing occupational safety regulations. Unfortunately, at this stage we do not have a regulation on the safety of earthworks, which would spell out each step.

        Businesses need to properly assess the costs of occupational safety and we need some time to raise citizens' awareness of health and occupational safety.

        The article discusses the introduction of innovative technologies in land cultivation and reinforcement of retaining walls. Specifically, the advantages of using hydraulic fracturing compared to traditional technologies are highlighted.

        During visits to various construction sites where earthworks were underway, it became clear that builders prefer to use familiar, proven methods. We recommended modern hydraulic spreaders/rollers, which they have less knowledge about, and they cite finances as the main reason for the changes. It must be said that upgrading qualifications and knowledge is also necessary. For this, staff are needed who will retrain local personnel and teach them how to use the equipment correctly and safely.

         We would like to note that hydraulic rammers, with their advantages, are one of the most important inventions that provide unlimited opportunities for builders during earthworks. An example of this is construction sites in developed countries, where no accidents have been recorded using this mechanism.

          The introduction of this technology to the Georgian market is quite important. The significant savings in time, safety, and material costs for new multi-story buildings and other industrial facilities will increase profits in itself.