21st June 2006, 01:51 PM
Quote:quote:Machining by the developer is usually substandard, whether under archaeological supervision or not.
My experience is that the quality of machining depends on the attitude and skill of the driver, which varies just as much when hired by the unit as when supplied by the developer.
On the issue of B-horizons and keeping material separate, that is a reasonable requirement and environmentally friendly as well (mixed material may have to be disposed of to landfill, while unmixed can be re-used, which is far more sustainable). However, the problem is real - but it can be anticipated and provisions put in place before the start for two-stage stripping if needed. I do this regularly, and I regard it as a key part of a consultant's job to anticipate these kinds of problems and address them.
True, the developer doesn't like it - but they can plan for it if warned in advance.
Posted by Mercenary:
Quote:quote:Of course it is. But you constantly have to make balanced decisions based on how much you will piss off the driver if you ask him to re-machine areas, or whether it is better to accept a bit of machining that is not quite up to your preferred standards.
If you are making compromises based on how pissed off the driver will be, then any consequent effects on the quality of the archaeological job are your responsibility, not his or the developer's. Be ready to piss people off if that is what is needed. If the driver won't cooperate, tell the developer to replace him. The foreman will be pissed off too, but he will have to do it.
1man1desk
to let, fully furnished