The BDA has become concerned about drilling subcontractor compliance as a result of a UK survey into the ground-investigation Industry, run jointly by the Association of Geotechnical and Geo-environmental Specialists (AGS) and the BDA. According to the associations, the survey answers highlight a lack of knowledge of Eurocode 7, the technical standard for the industry.

Anne Baxter, chair of the BDA, commented: "It is of concern that there is work being carried out without applying the relevant technical standards, which puts not only competence but quality into question.

"As the BDA's mission statement says, its members are dedicated to improving standards in health and safety, quality of workmanship and technical proficiency, and this includes committing to the application of technical standards that are safe.

"The BDA Audit, which is undertaken by an increasing number of companies, is proof of a member's competence, and we would urge main contractors to place the holding of this as an important differentiator and proof of their abilities.

"We have also taken the proactive step of introducing a 'Quality Matters' roadshow, with the support of the CITB, which is now well underway, with presentations being made already to groups including Arup, Highways England and Tideway, in addition to geotechnical student groups."