Specifications, ASTM Testing - NCARB Practice Test Question
One of the case studies in the NCARB practice exam is as follows:
The contractor submits an approved laboratory test for soil classification of earthwork fill at the new building addition. The architect asks the contractor to also submit compaction test results when performing the work. However, the contractor argues that the compaction tests, as specified by the architect, are to be provided to the owner.
CORRECT RESPONSES
312200 - Grading
Part 1.05, Section B lists compaction results as a submittal and delineates responsibilities of the contractor and owner. Part 3.08 lists performance requirements for the compaction of soils.
312323.13 - Backfill
Part 3.05, Section B lists compaction testing to be performed in accordance with ASTM D1557.
Based on the specifications document provided, I understand that the sections for grading and backfill both refer to ASTM D1557. Those sections include the following:
It clearly states to conduct compaction testing in accordance with ASTM D1557, Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil using Modified Effort. That makes perfect sense, however the section on Aggregates for Earthwork also references tests in accordance with that same ASTM D1557, though it doesn't specify compaction testing:
My assumption was that "testing in accordance with ASTM D1557, Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil using Modified Effort" would mean that the contractor would submit compaction test results for Aggregates for Earthwork as well.
Under the aggregates for earthwork section, the tests are mentioned under "SOURCE QUALITY CONTROL" as opposed to "FIELD QUALITY CONTROL" like in the two correct sections. Does this difference mean that the contractor doesn't need to submit test results for the aggregates for earthwork? Alternatively, was I simply incorrect in assuming that using ASTM D1557 means compaction testing?
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Hello Colin,
While the 310216 Aggregates for Earthwork section mentions a compaction test requirement, that requirement is for the aggregate material itself. The question however asks which sections the architect should reference to resolve the issue of who the contractor should send the compaction tests of the backfill to. The Grading section specifies the submittal procedures and responsibilities and the Backfill section notes the field quality control requirements; the section on aggregates would not relate directly to the question of submittal responsibility being asked.
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