Pedological Construction Supervision during the construction process—Status of implementation and future prospects. Issue 6 (9th November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bosold, Maike; Brauckmann, Hans‐Jörg; Broll, Gabriele; Meuser, Helmut
• Is Part Of: Journal of plant nutrition and soil science. Volume 185:Issue 6(2022)
• Page Start: 915
• Page End: 922
• Publication Date: 2022-11-09
• Subjects: BBodSchG -- BBodSchV -- certification course PCS -- construction projects -- DIN19639 -- energy line construction -- Pedological Construction Supervision; Plants -- Nutrition -- Periodicals; Soil science -- Periodicals; 630
• DOI: 10.1002/jpln.202200209
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1436-8730

Abstract

Abstract: Background: In Germany, soil protection plays an increasing role in environmental protection. But construction sites are still not enough incorporated in soil protection measures. Pedological construction supervision (PCS) in construction projects can help to prevent soil damage during the construction processes. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the state of implementation of PCS in Germany and the PCS courses for soil professionals in Germany. Methods: A questionnaire survey has been conducted to get information about how strong the PCS is deployed and accepted. Results: The legal basis of PCS is described and its development as well as the state of implementation is explained. The PCS is more and more incorporated in construction processes especially related to large ground movements for energy cables. The new DIN 19639 specifications supported this process. A PCS certification course for soil experts has been established in Germany to get a certificate as soil expert. Meanwhile, about 160 certified PCSs work in the field of soil protection at construction sites. Conclusions: PCS on constructions sites is well established in Germany but it has to be applied on more construction sites in the future. A new soil protection ordinance in Germany in 2023 and the planned legislative change in the soil protection act will strengthen PCS. There is a great demand for certified pedological construction supervisors (PCSs). Training courses on PCS are needed, and PCS knowledge should be integrated into university courses.