Book excerpt: This edition retains the three-part approach of the second edition. Part A is an introduction to the essential concepts necessary to procure a piling or retaining wall contract. Part B is the specification and is still the only part of this document intended for incorporation in contracts. Part C provides guidance for use of the specification and essential background information for specifiers and contractors alike. Unlike the second edition, Part 3 guidance notes immediately follow the relevant Part 2 specification requirements. The three sections provide the reader with a full compendium without being overly prescriptive.