5.1 This test method is used to quantify the volume of peat and peat-based growing media under consideration in commercial transactions to determine if the package contains the labeled quantity. As such, material comes into the test area in an “as sold” condition.

5.2 Peat and peat-based growing media are used by amateur gardeners and professional growers on a volume basis. Failure to follow this standard procedure as written can lead to inaccurate results.

Note 1: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself ensure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the volume of uncompressed (loose) and compressed (baled) peat and peat-based growing media and is used as a quality control measurement to determine if the package contains the labeled amount of material. The results of this test method is highly dependent on the experience of the personnel running the procedure.

1.2 This standard is for peat and peat-based growing media only. While it is possible for other types of growing media to use this standard it is outside the scope and the methodology may have to be altered to accommodate a different growing media.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. Except, that the sieve designations are typically identified using the “alternative” system in accordance with Practice E11, such as 3 in. and No. 200, instead of the “standard” of 75 mm and 75 µm, respectively.

1.4 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.

1.4.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering design.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.