When good risk management translates into construction cost savings.
At the new manufacturing facility for TKG Automotive Czechia in Kolín–Ovčáry, we are dealing with a number of technical challenges, including an underground space designed to accommodate press technology. Essentially, it is a structure within a structure, measuring 100 × 6 × 6 metres.
Geological and hydrogeological surveys indicated more complex ground conditions and a higher groundwater level. We therefore took a conservative approach to the design to ensure it would safely accommodate even a less favourable scenario.
However, once excavation work began, it became clear that the soil was more stable and the groundwater level lower than anticipated, partly due to the prolonged dry weather. This allowed us to optimise the solution, reduce the extent of temporary excavation support and carry out part of the excavation using sloped sides instead. As the designer, we incorporated the change into the project documentation and discussed it with the building authority, including from an occupational health and safety perspective.
The result? A safe technical solution and savings of several million Czech korunas for the investor.
We have been involved in the project from the very beginning – even before the site was purchased. Our scope has included technical due diligence, the initial project concept, surveys, project documentation and comprehensive permitting and engineering services. It is precisely this integration of design and construction expertise that makes it possible to anticipate risks while also optimising the project in response to the actual conditions on site.
